Posted: January 27, 2009, 5 a.m. EST
By answering a simple question, cat and dog owners can be part of an effort launched in January to benefit service dogs who are specially trained to be companions to people with disabilities or mobility problems.
The online contest “I Love My Pet Because” gives pet owners an outlet to tell the world about how smart, funny and inspiring their animals are, while at the same time helping New Horizons Service Dogs. The nonprofit organization provides highly trained animals to people in wheelchairs.
The makers of Vectra 3D, Summit VetPharm, committed to provide one free month of flea, tick, and mosquito protection to a New Horizons dog with each entry on the contest website. All pet owners are welcome to participate.
A $1,000 prize will be awarded Feb. 14 to both the winning pet owner and his or her veterinarian. To participate, pet owners can visit the contest website, upload a pet photo, complete the entry form, and answer the question, “Why do you love your pet?”