IDENTIFICATION OF PHENOTYPIC PROFILES OF THE STREET CANINE POPULATION OF THE FEDERAL UNIVERSITY OF PIAUÍ AND ASSESSMENT OF IMPACT ON PUBLIC HEALTH

Abstract

The concept of One Health, although recent and still under construction, is based on the tripod  of environment, human health and animal health. The vulnerability of abandoned animals drives  environmental pollution, traffic accidents, cruelty and, mainly, imminent public health diseases,  such as zoonoses. Canines are part of everyday social life, both at home and on the streets, being  of great interest for studies, due to the ease of contact with them. Among the various phenotypic  characters existing among dogs, coat, skull shape and physical state of the animal were observed  as the most relevant. This article aims to identify the canine phenotypic profiles present at the  Federal University of Piauí, in addition to knowing the opinion of the university community on  the subject. For this purpose, digital data collection of stray canines (images) found in the study  area was carried out, bibliographic data obtained from previously selected and public opinion  surveys through online tests distributed from public social networks of communities academic  statements without any form of identification of the respondent. The study area is formed by 9  large urbanized blocks, where 33 dogs were cataloged. Considering a combination of the most  commonly found phenotypes, the profile of these animals is: solid yellow color, mesocephalic  nose, ideal body score and mixed breed. It is clear that this population has been frequently  assisted by the academic community by maintaining their diet, hydration and even veterinary  care. Analyzing the public opinion of the academic community, the students consider  themselves to be very aware of the problems resulting from the abandonment and  overpopulation of these animals, giving already known suggestions for the resolution of the  theme. There is, therefore, a significant degree of information but still lacking in actions aimed  at promoting human and animal health and wellness.