IL SR0578

Declares the week of April 8-14, 2018 as Healthy Pet Week in Illinois.

Encourages all Illinois pet owners to schedule annual veterinary exams and evaluations during Healthy Pet Week if not already completed.

References health benefits of pet ownership including reduced blood pressure, cholesterol, triglyceride levels, and loneliness, plus increased outdoor activity and socialization.

Recommends annual veterinary care including physical exams, vaccinations, heartworm testing, fecal parasite exams, dental evaluation, and preventative care as advised by the American Veterinary Medical Association and Illinois Veterinary Medical Association.