| Abstract: | Veterinarians specializing in pig health care responded to a questionnaire regarding their experiences with vaccinations. The goal of the questionnaire was to gain insight into a) the reasons for vaccination and b) the factors involved in the efficacy of vaccination. The results indicated that vaccinations were typically initiated because of health problems at the farm. Veterinarians worked together with farmers and other concerned parties to initiate vaccinations. Respondents predicted that the number of vaccinations would decrease substantially with optimal farm management, but would increase if farmers were allowed (under strict conditions) to vaccinate their own pigs. The results further indicated that the nature of financial compensation predicted the rate of vaccination. Veterinarians paid according to a fixed 'fee for service' system vaccinated less frequently than did veterinarians who were paid according to an ongoing farm management contract. In conclusion, veterinarians appear to be restricted in their capacity to disseminate their experience and knowledge due to the competing needs of the farming network (animals, farmers, retailers). |
