(Battle Ground, Ind., May 7, 2000) — The North American Veterinary Technician Association will join thousands of veterinary clinics across the country this week to celebrate the 20th anniversary of National Pet Week, May 7-13. This year’s celebration of National Pet Week will embrace the theme, “Friends For Life,” which honors the evolution of the pet from workhorse and yard dog to valued member of the 21st century.
Every year, National Pet Week is set aside by the American Veterinary Medical Association, the Auxiliary to the AVMA, the American Animal Hospital Association, as well as the North American Veterinary Technician Association, to celebrate the special role that animals play in our lives.
Historically, veterinary clinics across the country celebrate the week by sponsoring pet health programs, open houses, dog jogs, and other fundraisers to benefit special animal related causes.
The members of NAVTA, an organization that is dedicated to promoting the vital role veterinary technicians play in the veterinary health care team, as well as the excellent care of animals, are very much a part of the celebration as well.
“Veterinary technicians can get involved in National Pet Week in all kinds of ways,” said Pat Navarre, executive director of NAVTA and registered veterinary technician. “Just as technicians assist veterinarians in providing pets with the best veterinary care possible, they are involved this week in helping plan the open houses, pet adoption days, and other fun events that make up National Pet Week. NAVTA has joined the AVMA, the auxiliary to the AVMA and AAHA in celebrating this week because we believe it supports our Veterinary Technician Oath – to promote public health and provide excellent care and service for animals.”
Lori Renda-Francis, president of NAVTA, and director of the Macomb Community College Vet Tech program in Clinton Township, Mich., says her organization will celebrate National Pet Week this year with a pet supply donation drive for the Michigan Anti-Cruelty Society, a non-profit organization that rescues abandoned and neglected animals.
“We’ve put up flyers and sent out e-mails to all the faculty for cat toys, dog toys, food and other pet supplies,” said Francis. “Last year we collected two and a half van loads of supplies.”
“As veterinary technicians, it says in our oath that we strive to alleviate the pain and suffering of animals, so anything we can do beyond caring for them is important,” said Francis. “Celebrating National Pet Week makes people realize how lucky they are to have a pet in their life.”
The North American Veterinary Technician Association was organized to represent and promote the profession of veterinary technology. NAVTA, founded in 1981, provides direction, education, support and coordination for its members and works with other allied professional organizations for the competent care and humane treatment of animals. The association’s headquarters are in Battle Ground, Ind.
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