engleski

A survey study on opinions and knowledge of veterinary students in Croatia about pet reptile species and their welfare

The aim of the study was to assess opinions and knowledge of the Croatian veterinarians-to-be about pet reptiles and their welfare. The questionnaire survey was conducted in the academic year 2019-2020 and included students of all six years of the integrated undergraduate and graduate studies at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb. The response rate was 87 % (589 students). Questionnaire statements were 5-point Likert scale questions, requiring from the students to express their opinions about turtles, lizards and snakes as pets, issues related to their welfare, risk they pose to health and safety of humans, other animals and environment, and their self- reported knowledge about pet reptiles. Student responses revealed that they were uncertain about their knowledge of reptiles as pets, considering different educational areas observed. Study results emphasised the need of alterations in veterinary curriculum and additional student education in reptile medicine.

veterinary students, survey, exotic pets, reptiles, animal welfare

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