May 28, 2009 (Pittsburgh, PA) As pet owners head to the outdoors with their pets, the North American Pet Health Insurance Association (NAPHIA) reminds pet owners to consider the wellness of their pets. Be certain that your pet has visited your veterinarian recently and is updated on all vaccines, as well as flea, tick and heartworm prevention. Further, make sure your pet is in good condition before travel, long hikes or other strenuous activities. Like humans, our pets can put on a few pounds over the winter, and hiking extreme distances is a bad idea for people and pets if not conditioned.
"It is always distressing when a pet owner brings a pet in for treatment of a chronic, ongoing condition that requires aggressive, costly 'catch up' procedures when earlier medical intervention would have resulted in less expensive treatment and a better outcome. The pet owner, their veterinarian and pet health insurance together form an unstoppable 'pet health maintenance team',"
says Dr. Bernadine Cruz, a veterinarian from Southern California, and a nationally recognized author and television pet health and wellness expert. Dr. Cruz goes on to say, "No one knows their pet better than the owner, so keep a pet health diary. Record any changes you notice at home regarding weight, appetite, change in elimination patterns, or anything that just doesn't seem right. Bring this to your veterinarian's attention during the pets' twice yearly health consultation. With many plans covering most costs for preventative well visits as well as sick and emergency treatment, pet health insurance allows pets to receive the care that is needed rather than just the care the pet owner can afford."
Check with your veterinarian about wellness programs offered and also visit your pet health insurance provider. There are many comprehensive wellness programs offered by pet health insurance companies. Most programs provide significant savings on wellness and may be just right for you, your pet, and your budget!
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Founded in 2007, the North American Pet Health Insurance Association is committed to educating and promoting the values and benefits of pet health insurance to North American pet owners, the general public, and the veterinary industry.
For more information, visit www.naphia.org or call 412-319-7730 / 412-908-9766.
Dr. Bernadine Cruz is a University of California at Davis graduate. She has been practicing companion animal medicine at Laguna Hills Animal Hospital for over 20 years. Dr. Cruz acts as a consultant for veterinary pharmaceutical companies, and is featured on numerous local and national television shows such as the Early Show and the Today Show. She communicates on a daily basis in over 3000 veterinary reception rooms as one of the hosts for PetCare TV. Dr. Cruz also serves on the advisory board for Veterinary News Network as well as Proctor and Gamble's Iams Pet Wellness Council.
