Even though the pet population is increasing, visits to veterinary hospitals have declined every year for almost
a decade.¹

Market research has shown that as a profession, we can do a better job helping pet owners understand the value of preventive care. It is also clear that the economy is not the primary reason for the decline in visits.

Experts agree that the decrease in regular visits is leading to an increase in preventable and treatable illnesses in dogs and cats. This includes diabetes, ear infections, hookworm, and dental disease, which now affects almost 80% of dogs and 70% of cats over 3 years of age.²

References: 1. Felsted K. NCVEI update: new insights in practice growth. Bayer HealthCare LLC, Animal Health Division, Bayer Veterinary Care Usage Study; 2011. 2. Banfield Pet Hospital. State of Pet Health: 2011 Report. Vol. 1. http://www.banfield.com/banfield/files/bd/bd826667-067d-41e4-994d-5ea0bd7db86d.pdf. Accessed July 8, 2011.

Professional associations, veterinary schools, the animal health industry, and veterinarians are now partnering to ensure we provide the best preventive healthcare by:

• Providing education on the positive power of preventive veterinary care so that regular veterinary visits are an integral part of pet owners' lives
• Demonstrating that preventive pet healthcare and early detection will improve pet health so that owners and pets can enjoy longer and healthier lives together
• Increasing the understanding of the veterinarian's commitment and contributions to the ongoing health and happiness of pets
• Addressing the increasing prevalence of serious diseases in pets, including diabetes, heartworm disease, cancer, obesity, arthritis, dental disease, ear infections, fleas and ticks, and internal parasites