Animal Hoarding: A Serious Public Health Issue - Abstract
Animal hoarding phenomenon, is often misunderstood, and typically involves the acquisition of a large number of animals. The homes of people who hoard animals tend to be cluttered, disorganizead and non-functioning and meet some hoarding criteria such as failing to meet care needs of animals. People who have undue attachments to animals, may see their role as saviors and may portray significant mental health concerns. Animal hoarding is an environmental and social problem that poses significant public health and safety risks on society, animals and economy. It is associated with extreme self-neglect, eviction, mental health issues, mortality and morbidity, behavioral issues and death of animals. Community nurses have a key role in the assessment and identification of clients who hoard animals. A person-centered approach, engagement with animal hoarder, negotiating and establishing, if possible, a relationship of trust, and empowering the client is key. This will contribute to risk assessment, coordinating multidisciplinary and cross agency responses to help reduce health and safety concerns.
This paper provides insight into animal hoarding as a serious public health issue, and the role and contribution of nurses.