Digital engagement and knowledge about zoonoses among dog and cat owners in Rio de Janeiro: a cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND

The One Health approach highlights the interconnectedness between human, animal, and environmental health, reinforcing the importance of public awareness in preventing zoonoses, which remain major sources of emerging infectious diseases. Given the increasing popularity of pet ownership and the widespread use of mobile phones for accessing information, understanding how pet owners engage with digital health content is essential for guiding effective educational strategies. This study assessed the profile of dog and cat owners in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; their knowledge about zoonoses; patterns of internet and mobile app use; and their interest in a health education app.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted with 166 pet owners recruited from a public veterinary clinic and a private service. Data were collected using a REDCap-based questionnaire administered through face-to-face interviews and online surveys. Descriptive statistics and association tests were performed to explore relationships between demographic variables, digital engagement, and knowledge of zoonoses.

RESULTS

Most respondents were women (78.3%), aged 18-34 years (51.2%) and had higher education degrees (54.2%). Mobile phones were the primary means of internet access. A total of 85.5% had heard of zoonoses, with rabies (86.7%) and sporotrichosis (35.5%) being the most frequently cited. Although 62.6% reported visiting veterinarians twice or more per year, 18.7% did not seek veterinary care. Only 19.9% used pet-care apps, while 74.7% searched online for animal health information. No significant associations were found between demographic characteristics and zoonosis knowledge, predominant mobile phone use, or app use. Significant associations were observed only between mobile phone users and social media access, information-seeking behaviors, knowledge of zoonoses, and pet-care app use.

CONCLUSION

Mobile phones are the main gateway to health information, indicating strong potential for digital tools to enhance health education and support responsible pet ownership, while respecting veterinarians' exclusive role in diagnosis and treatment.