A pilot study on knowledge, attitude, and practice of pet bird owners on zoonotic diseases

Pet ownership in general and pet bird ownership, in particular, is increasing recently. However, the status of pet ownership and the demographics of owners are unclear in Iran. The current study was designed to characterize the knowledge and attitude of pet bird ownership status, factors influencing pet bird ownership in metropolitan Tehran. A questionnaire was administered to pet bird owners in Parseh Pet Clinic. The questions were related to pet bird owners towards pet bird choice, management practice, and disease control. Local bird markets were more frequently visited for providing pet birds. Most pet owners reported a low level of information on prevalent and zoonotic diseases of the pet birds; however, most owners (90%) indicated that they consider veterinarians the primary source for providing information about management and zoonosis. This study was the first to provide concise information about pet bird ownership in Tehran. Providing more information to visitors in the bird markets is recommended to preserve the visitors҆ health and to prevent the transmission of infectious diseases. Strength communication between clients and veterinarians is essential to promote the health and welfare of the owners and the pet birds as well. Further research to investigate the knowledge, attitude, and practice of owners towards pet management and health are recommended.