Tenencia responsable de animales de compañía y conocimiento del marco legal en Pilar, Paraguay

The aim of the study was to evaluate indicators of responsible pet ownership and the level of knowledge of the legal framework in three neighbourhoods of the urban area of the Pilar district, Paraguay. In total, 138 surveys were conducted among homeowners to collect information related to housing, animals and the degree of knowledge of the legal framework. Results showed that 94% of the homes had pets and had a backyard. Moreover, 275 pets were registered, 56% of which were dogs, 40% cats and 4% other species with a mean age of 3.5 years for both species. A higher frequency of female dogs and male cats was found. The highest percentage of sterilizations were performed on female dogs and cats. The health aspect showed a low rate of immunization against rabies. A high percentage of the animals were dewormed. Most of the dogs remained inside the house permanently and the main reason for ownership in both dogs and cats was affection. Most of the animals consumed a mix of commercial feed and homemade food. A low level of knowledge of the Animal Protection and Welfare Law and Municipal Ordinance 87/2010 of the city of Pilar was found. The results indicate that the majority of those surveyed meet the basic needs related to the ownership of pets, however, aspects such as vaccination against rabies, confinement, identification and level of knowledge of the legal framework should be considered in future sanitation and education programs on responsible ownership.