Dear Veterinarians

May 6, 2009

Dear Veterinarians:

I write this note to all of my veterinarians – the practitioners that I have and do frequent; my friends; and club members. In celebration of National Pet Week,I want to extend my deep appreciation for your help, guidance and expertise when caring for the furry members of my family, as well as taking care of me.

You have all been an invaluable resource, both to me and to my pets over the years. In emergency situations – such as when one of my dogs got a paper clip lodged in his molar – you and your staff saw him immediately and assured me he would be fine. Your concern and prompt response calmed my nerves; something I am eternally grateful for.

During routine check-ups for my barking brood and meowing muses or when I just want to call in with a question, you have always been kind, gentle and thorough. The suggestions and tips you have given me to keep my four-legged friends healthy and happy have been widely employed. Ultimately, your dedication and compassion led me to dedicate an entire chapter in my book, The Miss Fido Manners Complete Book of Dog Etiquette,(Adams Media, 2007), to teaching others how to properly treat their veterinarian.

Being a responsible pet owner is not only important, but imperative. In today’s tough economic times, spending more conservatively is natural, but the health and safety of my pets is not a place for financial cutbacks. Taking my pets to the vet for both preventative and emergency services is quintessential to preserving their life and well-being. Thank you for teaching me that.

National Pet Week, established in 1981 by the AVMA, promotes responsible pet ownership and awareness of veterinary medicine, in addition to celebrating the human-animal bond. This year’s theme is "Pets Jazz up Our Lives" – in recognition of the AVMA Convention, in New Orleans, LA, July 19-22, 2009. I hope I will see you all there.

Moreover, this celebratory week pays tribute to the more than 172 million companion animals and the remarkable role that they play in improving the quality of our human lives. I know my pets have... jazzed up my life. They have improved and enhanced my life considerably! Across the U.S., pet owners, pet professionals and other pet lovers can use this opportunity to educate the public on how pets improve human health, and how pet owners can return the favor.

Please accept my sincerest thanks for your dedicated and compassionate work when it comes to my pets. Your gift of healing and knowledge does not go unnoticed.

Best,

Charlotte Reed