AVMA, Fort Dodge ready profession for National Pet Wellness Month

SCHAUMBURG, ILL. - 09/23/2005 - A national campaign is kicking off to encourage pet owners to schedule semi-annual visits with their veterinarians. The "Twice A Year For Life!" campaign designates October as National Pet Wellness Month (NPWM), which is sponsored by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and Fort Dodge Animal Health.

"Because pets age seven times faster, on average, than people, major health changes can occur in a short amount of time. That's why a wellness exam every six months is so important," says Dr. Lynn Fremin Buzhardt, co-owner of The Animal Center Inc., a NPWM participating practice in Zachary, La.

October marks the second year of the NPWM campaign. Educational materials that emphasize feline health issues are new for this fall. Cats see veterinarians about half as often as dogs, according to AVMA.

For more information, including registration information and client literature, visit www.NPWM.com.