An internet survey of the perceived prevalence of zoological companion animal (ZCA) species being evaluated by ACVECC diplomates and emergency and critical care residents and to gauge potential interest in advanced training opportunities in the emergency treatment of these patients.

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: To describe the perceived prevalence of zoological companion animal (ZCA) species being evaluated and treated by American College of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care (ACVECC) diplomates and Emergency and Critical Care (ECC) residents in an emergency room (ER) setting and to assess potential interest in further training for the ACVECC community in the emergency treatment and stabilization of these species. DESIGN: Internet-based survey. SUBJECTS: One hundred and thirty-nine ACVECC diplomates and ECC residents. PROCEDURE: An online survey was designed and administered to assess the perceived prevalence of ZCA species that were evaluated and treated in the veterinary ER and to gauge potential interest in advanced training opportunities in the emergency treatment of these patients. RESULTS: One hundred and fifteen (83%) respondents reported that their hospital offered veterinary services to ZCA species during business hours and 120 (86%) reported that they offered veterinary services to ZCA species during off-hours. Ninety-one (65%) respondents reported that ZCA patients were evaluated and treated through their ER with small mammals (n = 60/91 [66%]) and small birds (n = 48/91 [53%]) being the most common species presented. In hospitals with an available ZCA specialist (80/139 [56%]), primary case responsibility was maintained by the ZCA specialist 24-7 in 11 of 91 (14%) hospitals. Seventy-three (53%) ACVECC diplomate and ECC resident survey respondents reported clinical training specific to ZCA species during veterinary school. A total of 84 of 139 (60%) survey respondents expressed interest in further training regarding ZCA species, with 73 of 84 (87%) those individuals specifying interest or potential interest in a formal ACVECC certificate or other type of advanced training.