Celebrate the Animals in Your Family During National Pet Week

Celebrate the Animals in Your Family During National Pet Week

SACRAMENTO, Calif., May 3 /PRNewswire/ -- Pets are our faithful companions, offering love, affection, and the company of a best friend while enhancing our lives in many ways. They also bring comfort to the sick, help those with disabilities, and work as rescuers during disasters. As a result of their overall contribution, May 7-13 has been designated as National Pet Week to recognize these beneficial family members.

More and more people find pets are good for their health and for the health of their families, according to a study by the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association, which also showed that 63 percent of all U.S. households own a pet, currently at its highest level. Pets help families relax, aid in reducing loneliness and depression, and provide companionship with psychological, emotional, and social benefits.

Owning pets also has a broad effect on youngsters. Studies show children who live with one or more companion animals develop secure feelings toward them, which ultimately can contribute to positive developmental growth.

"By becoming responsible for a pet, a child can elevate his or her sense of achievement," says Eric Weigand, DVM, president of the California Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA).

One way to celebrate National Pet Week and simultaneously enrich a child's mind is to talk about animals at home and school. The presence of an animal in the home can motivate children to think and learn, encourage a respect for life, and foster a sense of responsibility. Having a pet can help promote good animal-care practices. Children are taught how to handle and care for animals and are encouraged to share responsibility. When you take a child with you for a veterinary visit, he or she learns the job veterinary professionals do and the difference veterinarians make in a pet's life.

National Pet Week is a great opportunity to emphasize for children both the caring and caretaking things we can do for our animal friends: provide regular health care as recommended by your veterinarian; ensure your pets are identified and safe by using I.D. tags, microchips, or other means; have your pets spayed and neutered; explore and find the right diet and foods for your pet; keep the environment for your pets safe and pleasant; and give them plenty of attention, exercise, and companionship.

"Considering and choosing a pet requires careful and thorough research," Dr. Weigand says. "Once the selection is made, however, children will reap the rewards of having an animal friend as part of their family."

For media interviews with a California veterinarian regarding this issue, please contact Melissa Stallings at the CMVA: 916-649-0599. To access past CMVA press releases, visit the CVMA Media Center in the News Room at www.cvma.net.

The California Veterinary Medical Association is the largest state veterinary medical association in the United States, with more than 5,400 members. Founded in 1888, its mission is to serve its membership and community through innovative leadership and to improve animal and human health in an ethically and socially responsible manner.

Source: California Veterinary Medical Association

CONTACT: Melissa Stallings of California Veterinary Medical Association,
+1-916-649-0599

Web site: http://www.cvma.net/

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