REPRESENTATIONS OF PROFESSIONALS WORKING IN THE AREA OF ANIMAL HEALTH ON ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND TRAINING OF VETERINARIANS ON THE SUBJECT

Abstract

Animal health services are potential generators of environmental impacts, and the number of pets in cities is increasing. With the objective of knowing the social representations of a veterinary hospital’s professionals about possible environmental impacts of their activities, and to identify if this topic has been approached in courses of veterinary medicine, a case study was carried out through qualitative interviews and the analysis of 6 veterinary courses’ curriculums. Although interviewees had difficulty in explaining what environmental impacts are, they recognized the importance of minimizing negative effects on the environment and human health. In the curriculums of the courses analyzed, disciplines on environmental issues had little relevant workload compared to the total workload. It is recommended to extend the theoretical-practical approach of the environmental theme in veterinary medicine courses and the continuous training of all professionals who work withanimal health services.