E. Saeedian et al.: Radioprotection 2025, 60( 1), 57 – 64 63 radiation in veterinary diagnostics has significantly increased. The dosimetry of animals and their adopters was performed in veterinary diagnostic radiology. Both dosimetry procedures were performed utilizing TLD-100. The results showed that the dose values measured in this study were lower than the documented quantities in earlier research( Figueroa et al., 2008; Sina et al., 2016; Forrest, 2016; Veneziani et al., 2010). This could be attributed to several factors such as the animals’ thicknesses, and optimized imaging techniques used by the experienced staff of the veterinary department.
In several countries, specific guidelines for radiation safety for veterinarians have been developed. Such cases are those issued by the Australian Radiation Security and Atomic Security Organization( ARPANSA, 2009), and pamphlet by the Heads of the European radiation protection competent authorities( Bly, 2020). Such guidelines are intended only for veterinarians and, to a lesser extent, animal adopters. The guidelines do not address the animals directly. According to the International Commission of Radiological Protection 153, animal protection should not be overlooked in veterinary imaging, but the primary goal should be lowering the dose to humans( ICRP 153, 2022).
Therefore, based on the ALARA principle, the radiation dose to the animal, veterinary staff, animal adopters, and members of the public, should be reduced to as low as reasonably achievable. The optimization of imaging techniques for veterinary imaging, and using protective devices can play a significant role in the radiation protection of people, and animals. To decrease radiation exposure to people and animals, veterinary personnel must be made more aware of the risks associated with radiation and the need to optimize radiography techniques.
Funding
This research did not receive any specific funding. Conflicts of interest
The authors declare no conflict of interest in regards to this article.
Data availability statement
Due to the nature of the research, no more supporting data is available.
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