Perceptions and attitudes towards companion animal brain banking in pet owners: A UK pilot study

Abstract

Background: Detailed analysis of archived brain tissue is fundamental to advancing the understanding of neurological disease. The development of the UK Brain Bank Network (UBBN) has provided an invaluable resource to facilitate such research in the human medical field. Similar resources are needed in veterinary medicine. However, collection and archiving of companion animal brain tissue is a potentially sensitive area for pet owners and veterinary professionals. Methods: Using an online survey, we aimed to study pet owners' perceptions of brain banking. The survey included information on respondents, their views on organ donation, the UBBN and the Royal Veterinary College's Companion Animal Brain Bank (RVC CABB). Results: In total 185 respondents were included. The use of brain tissue from pets for research was supported by 87% of respondents, and 66% of respondents felt that they were highly likely or likely to donate their pet's brain tissue to a CABB. Furthermore, 94% felt that more information on tissue banking in companion animals should be readily available. Conclusions: We found that the perceptions of companion animal brain banking were positive in our respondents. Open dialogue and clear information provision on the process and benefits of the CABB could enhance awareness and thus facilitate brain donation for translational research.

Investigating the Use of Companion Animal Donor Tissue Banks

“…A 2022 study conducted by Cardy and colleagues used an online survey to review the perceptions of pet owners on companion animal brain banking. The survey included mainly multiple-choice questions and Likert Scales with one response-based question giving participants a chance to explain their choice (Cardy et al, 2022). 66% of participants felt they would be likely or highly likely to donate the brain tissue of their pet, whereas 14% indicated being unlikely or highly unlikely to do so (Cardy et al, 2022).…”

“…The survey included mainly multiple-choice questions and Likert Scales with one response-based question giving participants a chance to explain their choice (Cardy et al, 2022). 66% of participants felt they would be likely or highly likely to donate the brain tissue of their pet, whereas 14% indicated being unlikely or highly unlikely to do so (Cardy et al, 2022). 71% of those who supported pet brain tissue donation believed it would contribute significantly to research (Cardy et al, 2022).…”

“…66% of participants felt they would be likely or highly likely to donate the brain tissue of their pet, whereas 14% indicated being unlikely or highly unlikely to do so (Cardy et al, 2022). 71% of those who supported pet brain tissue donation believed it would contribute significantly to research (Cardy et al, 2022). For those who did not support donation, 43% expressed concerns about being unable to bury or cremate their pet (Cardy et al, 2022).…”

“…71% of those who supported pet brain tissue donation believed it would contribute significantly to research (Cardy et al, 2022). For those who did not support donation, 43% expressed concerns about being unable to bury or cremate their pet (Cardy et al, 2022).…”

Pet owner perspectives, motivators and concerns about veterinary biobanking

“…This survey represents one of only a few published assessments of owners’ perspectives on veterinary biobanking. Cardy et al recently evaluated perspectives on veterinary biobanking, predominately in pet owners residing in the UK, and specifically in the context of animal brain banking ( 2 ). Our results support those previously reported that most people are not inherently familiar with veterinary biobanking initiatives but after a cursory introduction, are highly receptive and supportive of the idea of allowing their pet to contribute.…”