Public Perception of Equine Rabies and Its Implications for Future Education and Preventative Strategies
Academic Level at Time of Presentation
Senior
Major
Pre-Vet/Vet Tech
Minor
Chemistry
List all Project Mentors & Advisor(s)
Dr. Johanna Choate
Presentation Format
Oral Presentation
Abstract/Description
The purpose of this study is to evaluate the public's understanding of rabies in large animal species. This study is specifically for participants who are equine owners or equine caregivers in the six different regions of the Commonwealth of Kentucky. The survey will evaluate their general knowledge of rabies as a viral disease, rabies vectors, zoonosis potential, and vaccination status of the animals in their care. The independent research aspect of the project will consists of a review of the characteristics, clinical signs, and general background information regarding the rabies virus and its corresponding vaccine, including the history of both. The results of the survey will be used to understand the publics perception of rabies, gather information about the equine animals in their care, and evaluate whether greater education efforts regarding rabies should be pursued, and if so, what might be recommended.
Spring Scholars Week 2026
Honors College Senior Thesis Presentations
Public Perception of Equine Rabies and Its Implications for Future Education and Preventative Strategies
The purpose of this study is to evaluate the public's understanding of rabies in large animal species. This study is specifically for participants who are equine owners or equine caregivers in the six different regions of the Commonwealth of Kentucky. The survey will evaluate their general knowledge of rabies as a viral disease, rabies vectors, zoonosis potential, and vaccination status of the animals in their care. The independent research aspect of the project will consists of a review of the characteristics, clinical signs, and general background information regarding the rabies virus and its corresponding vaccine, including the history of both. The results of the survey will be used to understand the publics perception of rabies, gather information about the equine animals in their care, and evaluate whether greater education efforts regarding rabies should be pursued, and if so, what might be recommended.