In recent years, social media has transformed the way people access information about caring for their pets. Platforms allow you to share advice on nutrition, vaccination, deworming, diseases, first aid and even treatments for various pathologies. However, not all the information disseminated comes from veterinary doctors nor is it supported by scientific evidence.
In recent years, social media has transformed the way people access information about caring for their pets. Platforms allow you to share advice on nutrition, vaccination, deworming, diseases, first aid and even treatments for various pathologies. However, not all the information disseminated comes from veterinary doctors nor is it supported by scientific evidence.
Currently, it is common to find videos that recommend the use of medications for human use for dogs and cats, homemade diets without adequate nutritional formulation, natural remedies for infectious diseases or alternative treatments that promise quick results.
The World Organization for Animal Health and various veterinary associations highlight the importance of promoting information based on scientific evidence to guarantee animal welfare and protect public health. In this context, the “One Health” concept reminds us that animal health, human health and the environment are closely related. Therefore, misinformation not only affects pets, but can also promote the appearance of zoonoses, the inappropriate use of antibiotics and the increase in antimicrobial resistance.
However, social networks also represent an excellent tool for education when used by trained professionals. This is why many veterinary doctors use these platforms to disseminate vaccination campaigns, promote responsible ownership, teach preventive measures and debunk myths related to veterinary medicine. This shows that the problem is not social networks themselves, but the quality and veracity of the information that is shared.
As future veterinarians and zootechnicians, we have a responsibility to combat misinformation and promote decisions that protect the health and well-being of animals. Faced with this reality, are social networks contributing more to the education of owners or are they promoting information that puts the health of pets at risk?
