DIP is a psychiatric disorder in which a client perceives a parasitic infestation (usually ectoparasites such as fleas, ticks or other "bugs", but can include other organisms and endoparasites) on their pet. These pets are presented by the client for diagnosis and treatment of the perceived infestation. Samples of the "infesting organism" might be collected and presented by the client at the time of the consultation.

If you have dealt with such a situation, we would love for you to share your experiences.

Dr Mark Rishniw (VIN Consultant and Coordinator of Clinical Research) and Edie Lau (VIN News Service), in collaboration with Dr Peter Lepping (Consultant Psychiatrist in North Wales and Visiting Professor at Glyndwr University) and Dr Nancy Hinkle (Parasitologist at University of Georgia) are conducting a study to further characterize this disorder. They hope to publish the summary results of the study in a psychiatric journal to better inform psychiatrists of this manifestation of Delusional Infestation. Additionally, they hope to publish a paper advising veterinary clinicians on how best to approach cases in which they suspect DIP.

The data collection is relatively brief and should take <10 minutes to complete. Having the medical record of the case will help expedite the data entry.

If you have any questions about the study, please email Mark Rishniw.