Celebrating Pet Health Month, AFIA takes on Initiatives and Workshops in Vietnam

Written by: Madison Wyman   |   November 7, 2024

Vietnam

As Vietnam embraces the vital role pets play in our lives, the American Feed Industry Association (AFIA), the Vietnam Small Animal Veterinary Association (VSAVA) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), have partnered to host a Pet Health Month campaign in the country. This October initiative, winding down now, successfully elevated Vietnamese pet owners’ awareness around pet nutrition and health and well-being, reflecting a broader commitment to improving the lives of pets worldwide.

The Pet Health Month campaign kicked off with a strong message about the importance of pet health. The campaign's goal was to educate pet owners about responsible pet ownership, including proper nutrition and routine veterinary care. Through various events, activities and educational resources, the campaign engaged pet owners, veterinarians and the public in meaningful conversations around healthy pets.

These initiatives are particularly significant as pet ownership continues to rise in Vietnam, with more households welcoming furry companions into their families. By focusing on pet health, AFIA and VSAVA are not only fostering a culture of care but also addressing critical health concerns that pets face today. AFIA took part in multiple events throughout the month, and here are a few highlighted below. 

In-Depth Workshop on Pet Nutrition and Feline Leukemia

As part of the Pet Health Month festivities, the AFIA and VSAVA hosted an in-depth workshop at Nong Lam University, focusing on the crucial topics of pet nutrition and feline leukemia. This workshop brought together veterinary professionals, students and pet owners, creating a collaborative environment for sharing knowledge and best practices.

Participants learned about the importance of balanced nutrition in maintaining pet health as well as the specifics of feline leukemia—a viral disease that poses significant risks to cats. The workshop provided invaluable insights into prevention, diagnosis and treatment options, equipping the attendees with the information needed to support pets' health effectively.

Louise Calderwood, AFIA director of regulatory affairs attended the workshop at Nong Lam University and was impressed by the quality of the material presented and the engagement of the students. Calderwood said,

“The questions after each presentation were excellent and demonstrated the students’ desire to learn about pet care.”

Super Pet Fest: A Celebration of Pet Health

To wrap up the month, the Super Pet Fest unleashed amazing experiences for pet lovers and their furry friends. This festival featured a variety of activities, including pet health screenings, nutrition workshops, interactive games and even opportunities for pet adoptions.

The Super Pet Fest served as a festive culmination of the month’s educational efforts, offering a fun-filled day where pet owners could learn more about caring for their pets while enjoying the company of fellow animal lovers. With engaging activities and expert advice available, the festival was a perfect way to reinforce the message of responsible pet ownership and the importance of prioritizing pet health and nutrition.

Calderwood also attended Super Pet Fest where throngs of pet owners gathered to learn about pet care and show off their many cute cats and dogs. “The love of Vietnamese for their pets is evident. I think some of the cats enjoyed the festival as much as their owners did!”

The Pet Health Month campaign in Vietnam, along with the impactful workshop and the Super Pet Fest, showcases the collective efforts of AFIA and VSAVA to improve pet health and nutrition awareness. As we celebrate Pet Health Month, it’s a reminder for all pet owners to prioritize their pets' well-being and embrace the joy they bring into our lives.