The Ontario SPCA and the OVMA Encourage Pet Owners That If You've Got a Pet? Get a Vet!™

NEWMARKET, ONTARIO--(Marketwired - April 25, 2016) - The Ontario SPCA in association with the Ontario Veterinary Medical Association (OVMA) and other participating SPCAs and Humane Societies across Canada, encourage pet owners that if you've 'Got a Pet? Get a Vet!™'.

It's important to establish a relationship with a veterinarian when you get a pet. Just one veterinary check-up a year will help protect pets against a variety of potentially life-threatening diseases, detect health problems sooner, and avoid unexpected costs.

"Veterinarians offer a variety of services to keep your pet(s) happy and healthy," says Tanya Firmage, Chief, Humane Programs and Community Outreach, Ontario SPCA. "Prevention is key. Schedule a visit with your local veterinarian to help your pets live longer, healthier lives."

"Ontario veterinarians have been long standing partners with the shelter community in promoting animal health and welfare. We're so proud to be a part of a campaign that promotes regular veterinary care for adopted shelter pets, helping to ensure they have long and happy lives with their new owners." - OVMA President, Dr. Christine Coghlan

Veterinarians provide many services, including but not limited to:

Early Disease Detection	Prevention of Dental Disease
Spaying & Neutering	Nutritional Counselling
Regular Vaccinations	Addressing Behavioural Concerns
Flea, Tick and Parasite Prevention	Pet Identification

2016 Got a Pet? Get a Vet! Contest

The Ontario SPCA and the OVMA want to help recognize local veterinarians and their staff who go above and beyond in providing excellent care for pet(s) and families. From April 25^th - May 23^rd, 2016 the general public are invited to submit their favorite veterinary clinic for the 2016 'Got a Pet? Get a Vet!™ Award' and then encourage friends and family to vote for the winner.

For more information on the campaign, to find a vet or enter the contest, visit gotapetgetavet.ca.

Ontario SPCA and Humane Society:

Protecting animals since 1873, Ontario SPCA is Ontario's Animal Welfare organization. A registered charity comprised of over 50 communities.

Since 1919, when Ontario's first Animal Welfare legislation was proclaimed, the Ontario SPCA, with the help of its communities, has been entrusted to maintain and enforce Animal Welfare legislation. The Act provides Ontario SPCA Agents and Inspectors with police powers to do so.

Ontario SPCA provides leadership in Animal Welfare innovations including introducing high-volume spay/neuter services to Ontario and opening the Provincial Education & Animal Centre.

The Ontario Veterinary Medical Association

The Ontario Veterinary Medical Association (OVMA) proudly represents more than 4,400 veterinarians in private practice, public service and academic or research roles. The OVMA's mandate includes the protection of both human and animal health through public education. To learn more about the OVMA and for information on pet care tips, visit ovma.org.