Veterinary clinics in the United States have a valuable opportunity to enhance their support for pets diagnosed with diabetes through the Diabetes PetCare Alliance program. Celebrating its 10th year, this initiative, a collaboration between Merck Animal Health, Pro Plan Veterinary Diets, and Zoetis, offers access to complimentary diabetes education resources and starter kits to assist clients in managing their pets’ condition effectively.
The prevalence of diabetes in pets is a significant concern. It’s estimated that approximately 1 in 300 adult dogs and 1 in 230 cats in the US are living with diabetes. While diabetes in pets is not curable, early diagnosis and informed pet owners are crucial for ensuring these animals can lead long and healthy lives. The Diabetes PetCare Alliance program directly addresses this need by providing essential tools and knowledge.
A vet examining a dog, highlighting the importance of early diabetes diagnosis in pets
Veterinary clinics can enroll in the Diabetes PetCare Alliance program between September 1, 2024, and October 31, 2024, via usa.petdiabetesmonth.com. This enrollment allows them to provide free starter kits to clients whose pets receive a new diabetes diagnosis between November 1, 2024, and December 31, 2024. This timeframe aligns with Pet Diabetes Month in November, further emphasizing the importance of awareness and early intervention.
The Diabetes PetCare Alliance program emphasizes that with timely diagnosis and proper management, including appropriate therapy, dietary adjustments, and lifestyle modifications, the outlook for pets with diabetes is positive. Providing pet owners with the right management tools is key to fostering confidence and success in caring for their diabetic companions.
Each starter diabetes management kit offered through the Diabetes PetCare Alliance program includes essential components for initiating effective diabetes management:
- AlphaTRAK3 Blood Glucose Monitoring System from Zoetis: A critical tool for home monitoring of blood glucose levels in pets.
- Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets: A 6 lb bag of either DM Dietetic Management Feline Formula or EN Gastroenteric Fiber Balance Canine Formula, providing specialized nutritional support.
- Vetsulin (porcine insulin zinc suspension) from Merck Animal Health: A 10 mL vial of insulin to help regulate blood sugar levels.
The Diabetes PetCare Alliance program was established in 2014 by Merck Animal Health, Pro Plan Veterinary Diets, and Zoetis with the overarching goal of improving the long-term management of diabetes in pets. By enhancing owner awareness and facilitating the screening of at least 2500 new pets during Pet Diabetes Month, the alliance strives to make a significant impact on pet health.
Veterinarians are encouraged to enroll in the Diabetes PetCare Alliance program and access further details by visiting usa.petdiabetesmonth.com. This program represents a valuable resource for veterinary professionals seeking to provide optimal care for pets with diabetes and support their owners through the management journey.
References
- Diabetes PetCare Alliance promotes screening pets this November. News release. August 29, 2024. [email]
- Pets with diabetes can live happy, healthy lives. Pet Diabetes Month. Accessed August 30, 202.4 https://usa.petdiabetesmonth.com/
