Equine veterinarian knowledge and perceptions of ticks and tick-borne diseases in the United States

Ticks pose a significant threat to horses, as they can cause harm and transmit diseases. This study aimed to assess the experiences, knowledge, and practices of equine veterinarians regarding ticks and tick-borne diseases (TBDs) in the United States. A survey was conducted, covering topics such as tick biology, identification, prevention, and veterinary education. The results revealed variations in veterinarians’ knowledge on ticks and TBDs, highlighting the need for improved tick control options, enhanced education, and comprehensive resources for tick and TBD prevention. The study emphasizes the importance of accurate tick identification for effective diagnosis and treatment of TBDs in horses. The limitations of the study include potential response bias and a limited sample size. To address these issues, collaborations between academia, industry, and the human medicine community are recommended to strengthen veterinarian training and education on ticks and TBDs. This research provides valuable insights for developing continuing education programs that focus on tick-borne illness prevention in horses.