Rachel Lumbis
R.Lumbis.1@research.gla.ac.uk
https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3321-9968
Research title: An exploration of knowledge, attitudes, behaviour and practice of small animal veterinary nutrition
Research Summary
In human medicine, poor diet is the second leading cause of death in the world. The anthropomorphic nature of many human-companion animal relationships and widespread confusion and misinformation about human and pet nutrition is resulting in inappropriate food-related behaviours with deleterious effects on health and wellbeing. Not all caregivers or patients trust or follow the advice of healthcare professionals, instead relying on alternative sources of nutritional information with questionable accuracy, reliability and credibility. Investigation and deeper understanding of the language and approaches required for effective communication and education about pet and human nutrition is needed as a priority issue.
My research is examining nutrition-related beliefs, attitudes and knowledge, dietary decision making and feeding behaviour. This analysis is essential to optimise pet nutrition, protect public health and enhance nutrition-related education and communication. Through detailed analysis of dietary decision-making processes and nutrition-related education, cohesive strategies will be formulated to ensure the adoption of optimum nutrition-related decisions and practice.
Supervisors
External supervisors
Professor John Reilly, University of Strathclyde
Conference
International Veterinary Education Symposium 2024 (3rd - 5th July)
Poster presentation entitled
"An exploration of the current education, information sources, knowledge, competence, and attitudes about small animal nutrition among foundation phase student veterinary professionals"
The 49th World Small Animal Veterinary Association Congress 2024 (3rd - 5th September)
Poster presentations entitled
"The nutrition-related experience of foundation phase student veterinary professionals"
and
"Perceptions of foundation phase student veterinary professionals regarding nutrition information sources and unconventional diet choice"
Additional Information
I am a member of the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) Nutrition Committee. As part of this role, I help to educate about the importance of nutrition in companion animal health, promote the central role of the veterinary healthcare team as the expert source of pet nutrition information, and produce evidence-based companion animal nutrition information and resources.
