NH PetSave Launches Educational Initiative

New Hampshire veterinarians and animal shelter professionals have partnered on a statewide public awareness campaign to educate the public about what they should know before bringing home a new pet.

“The NH Veterinary Medical Association is proud to be part of the NH PetSave initiative,” said Brenda Stowe, DVM and representative of the NH Veterinary Medical Association. “As caregivers to New Hampshire’s pets, we share in the heartbreak that families feel when their new pet has health or behavior problems and hope that PetSave’s message will educate people on what questions to ask before acquiring a new pet.”

The campaign urges those who are considering a new pet to get answers to three questions before spending any money. The questions come from a 2013 article published by NH State Veterinarian Stephen Crawford DVM. Educated prospective pet owners should pose three questions:

1. Is the organization listing the pet licensed by the state of NH, another state or the USDA?
2. Does the pet come with health protections such as vaccinations and a health certificate?
3. Can you meet the pet before spending any money?

In the past 10 years there has been a proliferation of internet based pet browsing and buying which has in turn created multiple challenges in the state’s pet community with expensive and sometimes heartbreaking consequences for New Hampshire pet owners.

“We are very excited about this campaign,” stated Paula Mattis, president of the NH Federation of Humane Organizations, “and partnering with the NH Veterinary Medical Association. My hope is that we can make the Granite State an even more compassionate place for people and pets.”

The takeaway message, simply put, encourages those looking for a new pet to be sure they know who they are dealing with and that they know the history of the animal they wish to bring into their home.

“We believe the best option for individuals who need to surrender their animals or are looking to adopt is the use of services of licensed and trusted animal rescues. This campaign is extremely important in assisting the public in the decision making process when adopting a pet,” said D.J. Bettencourt, director of Development and Community Relations at the Salem Animal Rescue League and member of the Board of Directors of the NH Federation of Humane Societies.

Owning a pet is a lifetime commitment, research before leaping in to pet ownership is the best approach.

To learn more about NH PetSave go to NHPetSave.com.

Submitted text and courtesy graphic.