| dc.description.abstract | Companion animals in resource-limited and rural communities in South Africa are negatively
impacted by the socioeconomic, cultural, and environmental challenges that their owners face,
resulting in increased parasitic and disease burden. The research notes the exacerbating impact
of climate change and urbanisation on zoonotic disease risk, linked to alterations in vector
ecology and wildlife-domestic animal interactions. Cultural practices, including informal
livestock slaughter and the unrestricted keeping of pet animals, are contributing factors to the
persistence, and spread of zoonoses. The lack of accessible veterinary services, largely provided
by overstretched welfare organizations, poses the most substantial barrier to disease
management. This is compounded by infrastructural deficiencies such as inadequate sanitation
and water supply systems, which facilitate disease transmission. | en_US |
