How can the veterinary profession tackle social media misinformation?

Abstract

The spread of misinformation on social media has become a pressing issue across various fields, including veterinary medicine. Pet owners increasingly rely on social media for animal health information, where distinguishing between factual and nonfactual content is challenging. The rise of social media influencers has complicated credibility assessments, as nonexperts can gain substantial influence despite lacking expertise. This Viewpoint article synthesizes current research on misinformation in animal healthcare, emphasizing the importance of preemptively addressing misinformation and fostering trust between veterinarians and pet owners. It advocates for veterinarians to take an active role in debunking rumors and establishing transparent mechanisms for addressing false information, ensuring that pet owners receive accurate, science-based guidance.