October is National Pet Wellness Month

AMERICAN VETERINARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION LAUNCHES "IS YOUR CAT HEALTHY?" PUBLIC SERVICE CAMPAIGN

The Campaign Complements the National Pet Wellness Month Initiative

SCHAUMBURG, IL (September 27, 2005) - The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) today announced the launch of a new public service campaign aimed at informing pet owners about important health and behavioral issues unique to cats and what they can do to help their cats live longer, healthier and happier lives.

The campaign's launch coincides with National Pet Wellness Month in October. The National Pet Wellness Month campaign, which is sponsored by the AVMA and Fort Dodge Animal Health, is a clinic-centered educational initiative designed to raise consumer awareness about the pet aging process, disease prevention and the importance of twice-a-year wellness exams for all cats and dogs. Read Entire Article

HOW OFTEN DOES YOUR PET NEED A WELLNESS EXAM?

September 27, 2005 - For millions of health-conscious Americans, the annual checkup has become a routine practice. Like people, dogs and cats can benefit from routine wellness exams too. But with one important difference - pets age faster than people.

On average, most dogs and cats reach adulthood by age two, says Dr. Marty Becker, a veterinarian and consumer spokesperson for National Pet Wellness Month, an educational initiative sponsored by the American Veterinary Medical Association and Fort Dodge Animal Health. By age four, many pets are entering middle age. And by age seven, most dogs, particularly larger breeds, are entering their senior years. Read Entire Article