The Hidden Harm of Deceptive Illness Awareness, Recognition, and Reporting of Animal Abuse by Falsification (AAF) among Dutch Veterinary Professionals.

Abstract

Animal Abuse by Falsification (AAF) is a severe form of maltreatment where an owner deliberately induces, fabricates, or exaggerates medical symptoms in an animal. Because this abuse mimics genuine illness, its detection relies heavily on the clinical recognition and reporting behavior of veterinary professionals. This study surveyed 85 Dutch veterinarians and veterinary nurse practitioners to evaluate their awareness, recognition of warning signs, and management of these cases.

The results indicate that while familiarity with AAF terminology is high, moving from suspicion to confirmation proves difficult. Suspicion is rarely driven by isolated symptoms but rather by an accumulation of inexplicable clinical signs and evident discrepancies, such as implausible medical histories or a lack of improvement when the animal is at home. Although more than half of the respondents had encountered suspected AAF cases, confirmed diagnoses and official reports were exceptionally rare.

This significant gap between suspicion and action appears to be hindered by insufficient diagnostic certainty, a lack of standardized criteria, and uncertainty regarding procedures and consequences. Notably, only 11.8% of the respondents had received prior training regarding AAF. The findings highlight a critical need for clearer diagnostic guidance, accessible reporting pathways, and professional education to strengthen the veterinary response to this hidden form of abuse.