Assessing knowledge, attitudes, and practices of Canadian veterinarians with regard to Lyme disease in dogs

Background: The blacklegged tick (BLT) is a vector for the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi (Bb), which causes Lyme disease. Range expansion of the BLT in Canada is related to an increased risk of Lyme disease in many regions. Current literature, such as the 2018 American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine consensus statement, suggests that there may be differences in the approaches of veterinarians who encounter dogs exposed to Bb and dogs with Lyme disease. Objectives: To determine current knowledge, attitudes, and practices of Canadian veterinarians regarding Lyme disease in dogs. Animals: None. Methods: An online survey was distributed to Canadian veterinarians through veterinary associations and industries. Survey responses were analyzed using descriptive statistics, spatial analysis, Fisher's exact tests, and univariable logistic regression. Results: At the completion of the survey, 192 responses were received from veterinarians practicing in all 10 Canadian provinces. Answers to short scenario and treatment questions reflected a wide variety of clinical approaches taken by veterinarians. Regional differences were seen in reported tick distribution and clinical approaches. Conclusions and Clinical Importance: Regional differences and generalized differences were found in approaches used by responding Canadian veterinarians with regard to managing Bb exposure and Lyme disease in dogs. We identified areas for future research and knowledge mobilization for veterinarians.