Animal abuse by falsification–Recognition amongst the veterinary profession in The Netherlands

Abstract

Presently, Animal Abuse by (condition/ illness) Falsification (AAF), has received little scientific attention. Feigning illness in children for attention purposes has been studied, indicating that the involved children can suffer serious consequences. Although to date little is known about AAF, perplexing presentation has been mentioned. We aim to add to scientific information on veterinary awareness of AAF. Our exploratory survey-based research addressed veterinarians and vet technicians/ assistants, asking questions on their awareness of AAF and recognition of possible AAF signs. We found that only 12% of our 88 participants, who mainly treated companion animals, had previously received education on AAF. Despite this, 83% reported familiarity with the phenomenon of AAF. Half of the participants (51%), indicated to likely see AAF cases in their veterinary clinic, 5% indicated to see them with certainty (unsure: 32%; not to see such cases: 12%). Most often dogs and cats were indicated as a proxy (other animals: rabbits, rodent, horse). When asked how likely a participant would regard a sign/ symptom indicative of AAF, participants scored higher likeliness for those signs/ symptoms regarding client behaviours than animal/ medical aspects. Reporting of AAF in this sample was low: 92% indicated to have never reported AAF as animal abuse. Barriers to reporting AAF included a lack of knowledge on AAF and how to identify clients suffering from the condition. Our study engaged a limited number of participants in only one country, but indicates that knowledge on AAF may facilitate the recognition of this form of animal abuse.