Promoting Pet Health in Vietnam: A Collaborative Effort
HO CHI MINH CITY, VIETNAM — In a significant stride towards enhancing pet care in Vietnam, more than 120 students from the veterinary community gathered at Nong Lam University (University of Agriculture and Forestry) for an in-depth workshop. This event marked the launch of the inaugural Pet Health Month campaign, a collaborative initiative aimed at educating pet owners and veterinary professionals about the critical importance of routine veterinary care and proper pet nutrition.
A Collaborative Initiative
The Pet Health Month campaign is the result of a partnership between the American Feed Industry Association (AFIA) and the Vietnamese Small Animal Veterinary Association (VSAVA). With a series of events planned across Ho Chi Minh City, the campaign seeks to raise awareness about pet health and nutrition, emphasizing the role of veterinarians in guiding pet owners towards making informed decisions for their furry companions.
The initiative is further supported by the US Department of Agriculture (USDA), which aims to facilitate market access for US pet food manufacturers. This partnership is designed to provide Vietnamese pet owners with a wider array of high-quality, complete, and balanced pet food options, ensuring that they can make the best choices for their pets’ health.
Insights from Veterinary Experts
During the workshop at Nong Lam University, esteemed veterinarians Ngo Hong Phuong and Nguyen Thi Huyen shared their expertise on pet nutrition trends and specific health issues, such as feline parvoviral enteritis. Their presentations highlighted the critical relationship between adequate nutrition and effective medical treatment, particularly in cases of feline leukemia. The session fostered lively discussions among veterinary students, who were eager to learn from the practical experiences shared by the veterinarians.
This exchange of knowledge is vital, as recent market research conducted by the AFIA indicates that a growing number of Vietnamese veterinarians are inclined to recommend US pet food to pet owners. This trend reflects an increasing awareness among pet owners about the importance of investing in proper nutrition to ensure their pets lead healthier, longer lives.
Commitment to Quality and Safety
Louise Calderwood, director of regulatory affairs for the AFIA, emphasized the association’s commitment to delivering high-quality, safe, and nutritious pet food to the Vietnamese market. “The AFIA and its members can deliver high-quality, safe and nutritious pet food, treats, and ingredients to the Vietnamese market so that pet caretakers have the confidence that the foods they are feeding their pets is safe, complete, and balanced to meet their nutritional needs,” she stated.
This commitment extends beyond just providing food; it also encompasses fostering a strong relationship between pet owners and their veterinarians. By ensuring that pets receive routine preventative care and tailored dietary advice, the AFIA and VSAVA aim to enhance the overall well-being of pets in Vietnam.
Engaging the Community
The Pet Health Month campaign continued with the Super Pet Fest held at the Youth Culture House on October 19. This vibrant event allowed pet owners to interact with veterinarians, receive free pet checkups, watch training demonstrations, and learn more about effective pet care practices. Such community engagement is crucial for spreading awareness and empowering pet owners with the knowledge they need to care for their pets effectively.
Looking ahead, another educational workshop is scheduled for October 24 at the Pet Like Park complex, furthering the campaign’s mission to educate and inform.
A Vision for the Future
Matthew Kustel, economic chief at the US Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City, expressed optimism about the collaboration between the USDA, AFIA, and VSAVA. “I strongly believe the collaboration between the USDA, AFIA, and VSAVA will empower pet owners with knowledge and resources for healthy pet care,” he remarked. This partnership not only aims to support the health of pets in Vietnam but also seeks to bolster the veterinary medicine business, which is essential for the well-being of the country’s growing pet population.
Conclusion
The Pet Health Month campaign represents a significant step forward in promoting responsible pet ownership and veterinary care in Vietnam. By fostering collaboration between international and local organizations, this initiative is set to enhance the quality of pet care and nutrition, ensuring that pets in Vietnam receive the best possible support for a healthy and fulfilling life. As the campaign unfolds, it promises to create lasting impacts on the veterinary community and pet owners alike, paving the way for a brighter future for pets across the nation.