This #NationalPetWeek , we're celebrating the unconditional love, happiness and companionship that animals bring to our lives. In honour of the observance, book an appointment with your veterinarian to help keep your pet healthy for many more National Pet Weeks to come.

Since rabies is fatal and can be transmitted between humans and animals, all dogs, cats and ferrets three months of age and older in Ontario are required by law to be vaccinated against the disease. To learn more about rabies and your pet, speak to your veterinarian.

Life with pets can be full of surprises. Did you know that about 1 in 3 pets need emergency treatment yearly, and accidents are often the cause? To discover how OVMA Pet Health Insurance can protect your pet, visit ovmapetinsurance.com. #OVMAPetInsurance

DYK: Guide dogs help people who are blind or visually impaired to live more independently by assisting them with daily tasks. If you see a dog wearing an official guide dog vest, it means they are working and shouldn't be distracted. #InternationalGuideDogsDay

Heartworm is a serious illness that animals can develop if they're bitten by an infected mosquito. This #NationalHeartwormAwarenessMonth , protect your pet by speaking to your veterinarian about heartworm prevention.

A microchip is a tiny chip that's inserted beneath an animal's skin, which contains contact details that veterinarians and shelters can use to locate owners of lost animals. This #NationalPetIDWeek , speak to your veterinarian to learn about why you should microchip your pet.

Leptospirosis is caused by bacteria carried mainly by rodents and wildlife. Pets can become infected through contact with the urine of infected animals and by swimming in stagnant water or drinking contaminated puddle water. Ask your vet if your pet should be vaccinated.

Companion animals play a big role in our lives, including making a positive impact on our overall health and well-being. This #NationalPetDay , like and share this post to help us recognize the pets that have filled our lives and hearts with so much joy!

Accidents happen! This #NationalPetFirstAidAwarenessMonth , ensure you have a pet first aid kit on hand in case your pet ever sustains a minor injury, such as a cut or abrasion. Be sure to consult your veterinarian if your pet suffers any kind of accident or injury.

There's a long list of health benefits associated with regular low-intensity exercise for both humans and animals. This #NationalWalkingDay , put health first by setting a goal to walk with your pet every day!

Let the change of season be a reminder to schedule your pet's annual exam. Routine checkups with your veterinarian can help prevent diseases through early detection and can help you avoid unexpected treatment costs later on.

Did you know that lilies are toxic to cats and can be fatal if ingested? To keep your cat safe, remove these plants from your house or place them in an area your cat can't access. Visit bit.ly/OVMA-poisonous… to learn more about other potentially poisonous plants.

Regardless of where you may be headed, you should always tick-check both yourself and your pet after being outdoors. Here's how you can remove a tick if you find one on your pet: youtu.be/aafRyAGzD6Q. #NationalTickAwarenessMonth

Routine checkups and up-to-date vaccines are essential for parasite detection and prevention. #OVMAPetInsurance can help cover annual vaccinations, flea control medications, heartworm testing and diagnosis and more under select plans. Visit bit.ly/3CA3gdl.

In addition to changing your clocks and switching the batteries in your smoke detectors, #DaylightSavings can also be a great reminder to book your pet's annual exam. If you haven't already, call your veterinarian to schedule your pet's checkup.

As the temperature continues to rise, it's a good idea to remind yourself about tick and parasite prevention for your pets. This #NationalTickAwarenessMonth , talk to your veterinarian about how to best protect your pet.

In addition to preventive care, dental cleanings by your veterinarian are essential. With dental coverage included in every OVMA Pet Health Insurance policy, your pet's teeth will get the professional care they need. Visit ovmapetinsurance.com. #OVMAPetInsurance

Spaying or neutering your pet prevents the birth of unwanted puppies and kittens, while providing other health benefits. For accurate advice, speak to your veterinarian about when to spay or neuter your pet, and to learn more. #SpayNeuterAwarenessMonth

Cold surfaces and common de-icing chemicals can dry out your pet's paw pads. To keep your pet's paws clean and healthy, thoroughly wipe them with a damp warm cloth after walks outside and apply pet-safe paw balms to help maintain hydration.

Meet our 2024 OVMA Award winners! Congratulations to Martha Little and Drs. Daniel Pierroz, Elizabeth O'Brien, Linda Jacobson, Shane Bateman, Jason Coe and Meaghan Worrall! Learn how they have contributed to the veterinary profession at bit.ly/3jBeWHX.