(Greater Boston Area) - National Pet Week was jointly founded in 1981 by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and the Auxiliary to the AVMA, and is now widely celebrated throughout the United States and other parts of the world. This year the 2008, National Pet Week will be observed May 4 – 10, 2008. Each year, the goals are: to promote responsible pet ownership, celebrate the human-animal bond, and promote public awareness of veterinary medicine.
In 2008 the theme will be “Pets Jazz Up Your Life” and comes on the heals of the end of Jazz Week celebrated in the Boston area, and hometown region of Deborah Howard, President of the Companion Animal Protection Society, which is the only national nonprofit dedicated exclusively to protecting companion animals, CAPS' foremost concern is the abuse and suffering of pet shop and puppy mill dogs.
“It’s great that this week was created and that we take time out of the year to show our unconditional love for our companion animals,” said Ms. Howard. “Companion Animal Guardianship, which I personally prefer to use opposed to pet ownership, is such a vital part of so many people’s lives. Animals are members of our families, “ added Ms. Howard. “Millions of unwanted dogs and cats are euthanized each year. CAPS urges people to always visit their local animal shelters, rescue organizations or use Petfinder.org when considering welcoming a companion animal into their families.”
So how do you celebrate National Pet Week? Ms. Howard says consider doing something special for your companion animals or even more important donate to one of the vital organizations that are on the front lines saving animals like CAPS. Visit the CAPS websites at www.caps-web.org and www.caps2point0.org.
