Adopt a Shelter Dog Month

For millions of dogs, October is the most special month of the year.  No, it’s not Halloween treats; it’s Adopt a Shelter Dog Month.

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) and the American Humane Association (AHA) have deemed the month of October National Adopt a Shelter Dog Month and Adopt a Dog Month, respectively. Though the names may be different, the goal is the same — National Adopt a Shelter Dog Month and Adopt a Dog Month are both about connecting dogs with loving homes.

According to the ASPCA, the results of an Edge Research poll suggest people who adopt a dog from a shelter are far more likely to feel good about their experience than those who purchase a pet from a pet store — something to keep in mind while searching for your next canine companion.

Shelters and rescues in cities across the country are stepping up to promote their pooches and pups during the month of October.

 

National Walk Your Dog Week – October 1-7, 2018

The first week in October is National Walk Your Dog Week. It’s an important reminder to canine guardians that exercise is vital to a healthy pup.

Many owners make the mistake in thinking that just letting the dog out in the yard or arranging a play date is sufficient exercise. But playtime doesn’t boost cardio as much as a walk, and doggy backyard time is often consumed by sniffing and sunbathing.

Walks also stimulate mental health as dogs investigate new smells. Additionally, they can be helpful for healthy digestion systems. For dogs with excess energy or behavioral issues, exercise could be the answer.

Pet obesity is on the rise due to overfeeding and lack of exercise. Both optimal nutrition and daily walks are important to maintaining quality overall health.

At least two 15-minute walks every day can be a step toward keeping your pet slim. But ideally, two full hours of activity will get your canine trim – provided a healthy diet is adhered to as well.

If you want to spice things up, consider taking your canine to the beach or on a hike. Your dog will thank you in the long run for looking out for this health–and you’ll thank yourself, too!

 

National Veterinary Technician Week – October 14-20, 2018

Veterinary technicians are critical to the day-to-day function of veterinary practices, and play vital roles in preserving animal health and welfare. National Veterinary Technician Week provides an opportunity to recognize veterinary technicians’ contributions.

Because we value veterinary technicians every day of the year, we take this week to honor their commitment to compassionate, high-quality veterinary care for all animals. First celebrated in 1993, National Veterinary Technician Week takes place in the third week of October each year.

Thank you, veterinary technicians, for all you do!

 

National Cat Day 2018 – October 29

According to kittencoalition.org, 3.5 million cats enter shelters every year, and 1-2 million are euthanized — that’s a lot of felines with tons of love to give and a desperate need for a loving home. That’s why, on Oct. 29, we celebrate National Cat Day: to raise awareness of these amazing four-legged creatures and encourage Americans all across the country to adopt a cat of their own.