Since its inauguration three years ago, Partners for Healthy Pets (PHP) has seen its membership increase at a rapid pace and has now reached a new milestone.

According to the organization, it now boasts more than 105 members compared to 20 in 2010.

"To witness our organization grow from about 20 members in 2010 when the collaboration began to more than 105 organizations and associations in just three years is both exciting and amazing," said Ron DeHaven, DVM, chairman for Partners for Healthy Pets and AVMA chief executive officer. "It's proof positive that our mission to communicate the value of preventive care, showing consumers it is just as important as food and love, is a vital message for the industry and the overall health of our pets."

The diverse roster of PHP members consists of local, regional, and state veterinary medical associations; non-profit foundations; colleges of veterinary medicine; corporate partners, and veterinary trade media. They all share the common goal of educating pet owners about the importance of preventive health care, PHP said.

In addition to its ever-expanding membership base, PHP also has enrolled more than 3,500 veterinary practices so far that are committed to engaging in meaningful dialogue about preventive health care with clients.

Promoting preventive care with well-known industry spokespeople

Partners for Healthy Pets is also focusing on reaching pet owners by building a high-impact team of industry spokespeople who will educate pet owners across the nation on the importance of preventive care and regular checkups.

The team includes Dr. Elisa Mazzaferro (Stamford, Conn.), Dr. Karen Fling (Dallas, Texas), Dr. Apryl Steele (Denver, Colo.), Dr. Tracey Hlede (Chicago, Ill.), and Dr. Ruth MacPete (San Diegeo, Calif.).

"These spokespeople are not only well-credentialed veterinary professionals, they are busy women balancing successful careers, families, and more who can relate to many pet owners we hope to reach," said DeHaven. "We're extremely optimistic that their passion for the importance of preventive pet health care will help us extend our already successful campaign and message to pet owners everywhere."

More information about Partners for Healthy Pets

Learn more about this organization at the Partners for Healthy Pets website.