The month of May plays host to National Pet Week, a time to celebrate the remarkable pets in our lives and the vets who help us take care of them. On the heels of a great week, here are some way you can still get involved all month long!
Nominate your favorite veterinarian! Visit the American Veterinary Medical Foundation’s Facebook page to enter your vet’s info, upload a photo of your vet or your pet (or even better, a photo of your vet with your pet!), and write a short entry about why your vet should be America’s Favorite Veterinarian. Nominations are due by June 1st.
Check your pet’s health records. Make sure that your pet’s vaccinations are up-to-date and that they have current prescriptions for heartworm pills, flea medications, and other preventative care items.
Schedule an annual checkup. If your pet hasn’t been in to see their veterinarian lately, it’s time for a checkup. Regular examinations are an important step in maintaining a pet’s health. Want to read more about the importance of wellness exams? Click here.
Volunteer at your local animal shelter. From administrative support to helping care for animals, shelters rely on volunteers to help keep their programs running smoothly. The Arizona Humane Society has regular volunteer orientations to help you learn more. Visit http://www.azhumane.org/how-you-can-help/volunteer/help-at-one-of-our-sites/ to learn more or to reserve your spot at an upcoming session.
Open your home. Foster Care programs provide temporary homes for animals that can’t be in a shelter due to injury, illness, or age. Nursing an animal back to health in your home is a great way to help a hurting animal get back on their feet again. Talk to your vet or your local shelter to find out if fostering is right for you.
Thank your vet! Send your vet a card, an e-mail, or an in-person greeting to thank them for being a valued member of your pet’s life.
Visit www.petweek.org for online games, classroom activities, and additional ideas for celebrating National Pet Week.