Source Publication (e.g., journal title)
Journal of Shelter Medicine and Community Animal Health
Document Type
Article
DOI
https://doi.org/10.56771
Abstract
The primary objective of the study was to better understand the interests, needs, and perceived barriers to veterinary care of Knoxville’s Latino community. Investigators adapted a national survey designed to understand access to veterinary care for distribution to the Latino pop-ulation through a community-based participatory approach with an established community center. Seventy-six percent of survey respondents (n = 46) reported that they consider the pet as part of the family. Forty-eight percent said their pets were not spayed or neutered (s/n), and of these, 39% said s/n was cost-prohibitive, whereas 22% did not know where to receive services. Twenty-six percent identified an inability to obtain treatment for a sick pet, primarily due to a lack of access to affordable care. Participants expressed interest in vaccines and parasite prevention (64%), training and behavior (36%), and information on veterinary and pet care resources (29%). The survey tool (provided in English and Spanish) and community engagement approach can assist animal welfare organizations in identifying and addressing community veterinary needs and barriers to care.
Recommended Citation
Weisent, Jennifer DVM, phD; DeBolt, Rebekah DVM; Daugherty, Linda; Niceley, Alexis; and Norris, Jaime, "Assessing the Veterinary Health Care Needs of Knoxville’s Latino Community Through a Community-Based Participatory Approach: A Short Report" (2025). Faculty Publications and Other Works -- Small Animal Clinical Sciences.
https://trace.tennessee.edu/utk_smalpubs/19
Submission Type
Publisher's Version
Included in
Community-Based Research Commons, Medicine and Health Commons, Other Economics Commons, Small or Companion Animal Medicine Commons, Veterinary Preventive Medicine, Epidemiology, and Public Health Commons