The public health implications of urban dogs

A.M. Beck

American Journal of Public Health, 1975, vol. 65, issue 12, 1315-1318

Abstract: It is suggested that physicians give dog related zoonoses a higher index of suspicion, and include pet ownership or contact as part of the patient's history. It is also time for the social and legislative forces of society to respond humanely, but strictly, by exercising greater control over the size of the dog population, the dogs' freedom to roam, and their promiscuous defecation. The dog should not be considered a pest to expel from society. In fact, the controls necessary to safeguard the public would also benefit the canine population. Dogs that are under direct supervision or control are healthier, live longer, and appear to be better adjusted, perhaps because a pet's real social group includes its owner. The unsafe aspects of livestock and wildlife populations have been made known to those in contact with them. It is now time for urban dwellers as well to have a more balanced view of the man dog relationship so that man and dog can live together in health and peace.

Date: 1975
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:aph:ajpbhl:1975:65:12:1315-1318_4

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