ISVMA: April is Healthy Pet Month in Illinois

CHICAGO -- As the weather finally warms, our pets are ready to get out and play. Illinois veterinarians say this is the perfect time to think about making sure your pet is healthy and happy.

The Illinois State Veterinary Medical Association – representing veterinarians, veterinary technicians and veterinary students – is working to ensure every April is officially Healthy Pet Month in Illinois.

Power of 10, ISVMA’s leadership group, has worked to develop a series of social media graphics, videos and other material to help policymakers and the public recognize Healthy Pet Month and a week within it to focus on pet health – Healthy Pet Week, April 7-13, 2019. The goal is to educate and advocate for pet owners to understand their responsibilities and encourage them to work with their veterinarian on regular checkups, vaccinations, a proper diet and other care for their dogs, cats, snakes, birds and other pets.

ISVMA also has worked closely with Sen. Jil Tracy and Rep. Terri Bryant in the Illinois Legislature on legislation to formally recognize Healthy Pet Month every April. House Bill 2086 has passed the House and Senate Bill 1339 has passed the Senate without opposition, and each will be considered in the other legislative chamber over the next few weeks.

Visit the ISVMA’s website to access the Healthy Pet Month/Week materials: https://www.isvma.org/2019-healthy-pet-week/.