The model stigma also affects pets and delaying veterinary attention
A recent study revealed The anxious increase in animals that surpass cocaine In the local environment, a phenomenon grows from the hand of a Great arrival and consumption In common areas with animals. Now, a new study goes forward and focuses on an uncomfortable reality and silence: in the face of a state of emergency, They do not go to the veterinarian out of fear To social rule or legal consequences.
The Group of Researchers from Vancouver (British Columbia) has studied the effect of the stigma associated with drug use on access to veterinary care in cases of accidental poisoning of pets. Your conclusions, published in Borders in veterinary sciencesThey show that Fear of condemnation, loss of animal custody or facing discrimination The decision of many care providers, especially in the weak population, clarifies.
Two samples, the same fear
The team wiped two groups of people with animals: on the one hand, a general sample was recruited with Internet With 82 participants; On the other hand, a sample of the face of 32 people of social services programs that receive assistance for their low income and residents of one of the most marginalized neighborhoods in Vancouver. Those who did not live in real poisoning were asked a virtual scenario.
In the group of people who responded to a virtual scenario, a 78 % expressed very specific concern: Fear that the veterinarian will take measures such as contacting the police and withdrawing the animal nursery. This fear did not arise in isolation, but it was closely related to the previous experiences of discrimination. Participants who felt more discrimination in their daily lives were the most likely not to go to the veterinary center. As a direct result of this perception, many expected this, in a real position to poison their pet. They will choose to hide the decisive information During consultation, such as the type of drugs that the animal takes or the exact conditions in which poisoning occurred.
For their part, among those who lived a real situation of accidental poisoning with their family animal, it went slightly more than half (50 %) to the veterinarian in search of a professional assistance. However, among those who did not do so, the reasons exceeded its management and some They trusted their solution on their own With homemade treatments, but others admitted that the fear of judgment, discrimination, or even punishable during the visit of the veterinary clinic that deter them from going.
Fear that puts life in danger
Although it may seem to be anecdotal, the authors of the study insist that this frequency has severe consequences. The veterinarian is the only professional trained to evaluate and treat poisoning, and any delay can exacerbate the animal’s diagnosis.
Therefore, the researchers note that the key is to reduce barriers that prevent access to veterinary care and professionals in training to generate it Safe spaces and empty pregnancy. Confidence is necessary in these contexts, both to protect Animal care Regarding building an auxiliary relationship with the responsible person.
And they are the stigma of shame, not only destroy people. It can also cost life, in this case, she has no sound to explain what happened or seek help.
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