2018 Diabetes Pet Care Alliance program enrollment open now

The Diabetes Pet Care Alliance program is enrolling new practices through October 31, 2018. (Adobe Stock)

For the fifth year in a row, Merck Animal Health, Purina and Zoetis are joining forces to provide free diabetes education and tools to veterinarians, according to a recent release from the companies. After the sponsors lifted the cap on participating veterinary practices last year, more than 500 new pets were diagnosed, up from approximately 300 pets in 2016.

The release states that diabetes mellitus affects one in 230 cats and one in 300 dogs. Since the program began, the sponsoring companies have assisted veterinarians in screening thousands of pets and provided resources for diabetes management.

After enrolling in the Diabetes Pet Care Alliance program, veterinarians gain access to the tools and resources that help them bring awareness to diabetes and start screening pets. In addition, pet owners whose pets are diagnosed with diabetes during the program receive a free disease management kit from participating clinics. The kits include:

One AlphaTRAK 2 Blood Glucose Monitoring System from Zoetis

One 6-lb bag of Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets DM Dietetic Management Feline Formula for cats or Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets EN Gastroenteric Fiber Balance Dry Formula for dogs 

One 10 ml vial of Vetsulin (porcine insulin zinc suspension) from Merck Animal Health

The Diabetes Pet Care Alliance program is enrolling new practices through October 31, 2018. To enroll and learn more, visit usa.petdiabetesmonth.com.