National Pet Week
The 35th Anniversary of this annual event is coming up the first week of May. In preparation, the American Veterinary Medical Association has developed a basic idea for each day of that week for pet owners to consider…
From the moment you realize your pet is “the one,” to the last tearful goodbye, your veterinarian helps you provide your pet with a lifetime of love. To celebrate the 35th anniversary of National Pet Week®, the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) spotlights seven specific needs every pet owner must consider to ensure that their pet lives the longest, healthiest life possible.
The Basics: Seven days to a happier, healthier pet
Everyone loves their pets but not everyone is aware of what their pet needs from them to keep them happy and healthy long into their pet’s senior years. Leading veterinary experts in animal health, welfare, and behavior invite you to take each of the essential actions highlighted during National Pet Week® that are vital to achieving a Lifetime of Love.
Sunday
Choose well, commit for life.
Select the pet that’s right for your family’s lifestyle, and make a commitment to that pet for its life. Even if you have already welcomed a pet into your home, your veterinarian can help you better understand the social and healthcare needs of your individual pet.
Monday
Socialize now. New doesn’t have to be scary.
Learn about how to appropriately prepare your pet to enjoy a variety of interactions with other animals, people, places and activities. Everyone will be more comfortable!
Tuesday
Exercise body. Exercise mind.
With an estimated 52.7% of dogs and 57.9% cats in the United States considered overweight or obese, and humans plagued by this issue as well, the AVMA encourages pets and their owners to get regular exercise—together! This not only improves cardiovascular health, maintains a healthy weight, and supports good mental health for both owner and pet, but it strengthens the human-animal bond. For tips on walking, running, or starting another exercise program with your pet, visit avma.org/Walking.
Step it Up! is Surgeon General Vivek Murthy’s new initiative to promote walking. The program encourages brisk walking to reduce the risk of heart disease and diabetes in people. Dog owners know there is no better motivator for a walk than their canine companion. Recent scientific studies show that dog owners may get more exercise and are less likely to be obese than those who didn’t own or walk a dog. Owners that walk their dog also had greater mobility within their homes. Other studies have shown that all pets, not just dogs, have been shown to lower heart rates and blood pressure as well as promote quicker recovery times from stressful events.