Veterinary student attitudes towards and knowledge about exotic non-mammal pet animals and their welfare

This study aimed to investigate the attitudes and knowledge of veterinary students regarding exotic pets and their welfare. A total of 589 (87%) veterinary students from first to sixth year of integrated undergraduate and graduate study programme, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia, were surveyed in the autumn semester of the academic year 2019-2020. A written questionnaire contained a set of Likert type questions designed to assess student attitudes towards and knowledge about exotic pet animals and their welfare. The questionnaire was focused on exotic non-mammal pets, i.e. birds, reptiles, amphibians and fish. Study results showed the majority of statements to have neutral responses, in particular for the species other than birds. The results obtained point to the need of additional student education on exotic non-mammal pets and can serve for upgrading veterinary curriculum in the field.