The determinants of rabies knowledge, attitudes and practices among dog owners in the North-Eastern Region of Peninsular Malaysia: a multivariable analysis

BACKGROUND: Rabies poses a significant public health threat worldwide, primarily transmitted through dog bites. Understanding community knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding rabies is crucial for effective prevention and control strategies. This study aimed to determine KAP levels and their determinants among dog owners in Kelantan, Malaysia.

METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted in 2023 among 232 dog owners attending mass canine vaccination programs conducted by Kelantan State Department of Veterinary Services. A validated and structured questionnaire assessed knowledge, attitudes and practices of rabies. The determinants were analysed through multiple logistic regression analyses.

RESULTS: Overall, 53.0% exhibited good knowledge, 26.7% had positive attitudes, and 40.0% demonstrated good practices concerning rabies. Higher education levels (AOR = 3.15,95%CI:1.07,9.26), attending rabies programs (AOR = 3.79,95%CI:1.37,10.43), and owning two dogs (AOR = 2.25,95%CI:1.09,4.61) were associated with good knowledge. Medium and long duration of dog ownership durations (AOR = 0.23,95%CI:0.10,0.53 and AOR = 0.40, 95%CI:0.16,0.98 respectively) has lower chances to have positive attitudes, while larger households (AOR = 1.49,95%CI:1.18,1.87) and higher knowledge scores (AOR = 2.80,95% CI:1.06,7.42) were associated to positive attitudes. Older age groups (AOR = 0.27,95%CI:0.12,0.6 and AOR = 0.22,95%CI:0.09,0.50) was associated with suboptimal practices, whereas higher knowledge scores (AOR = 1.29,95% CI:1.08,1.54) and acquiring dogs through formal channels (AOR = 4.79,95%CI:1.85,12.39) were associated with good practices.

CONCLUSION: The study identified critical knowledge gaps, misconceptions, and suboptimal practices among dog owners in Kelantan, highlighting the need for targeted interventions. Tailored educational programs, community engagement strategies, and a comprehensive One Health approach towards the high-risk groups of dog owner are recommended to enhance rabies prevention and control efforts, ultimately safeguarding human, and animal health.