RARITAN, N.J., Oct. 7, 2012 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Raritan veterinarians are using social media to connect with pet owners. AnimERge, a pet emergency hospital in Raritan, NJ, maintains an active presence on Facebook, Twitter and Google+. The veterinarians use social media to communicate with pet owners, raise awareness about specific veterinary health conditions, and remind pet owners about the importance of seasonal care. Dr. Dean Newton, veterinarian and medical director of AnimERge, says that social media is revolutionizing the way that veterinarians and pet owners stay in touch. The ability to send a quick message that is instantly seen by hundreds of pet owners allows the animal hospital to connect with busy pet owners every day.
AnimERge, a pet emergency hospital in Raritan, NJ, is up-to-date with social media communication. The Raritan veterinarians regularly use Facebook, Twitter and Google+ to communicate with pet owners, sharing seasonal care tips, wellness news, and information on specialty veterinary care. Recent topics include fall safety pet care tips, Deaf Pet Awareness week, and tips for traveling with pets on car trips.
"We use social media to stay connected with pet owners and deliver relevant pet care information when they need it most," said Dr. Newton. "For example, posting a tip sheet for pet travel before the weekend is an easy way to connect with pet owners who are planning road trips. For busy pet owners, Facebook and Twitter are an easy way to stay in touch and stay current on the latest pet care news."
The animal hospital also encourages pet owners to post pet photos, share pet care stories, and post animal care questions. By fostering interaction with pet owners, the Raritan veterinarians hope to build an online community dedicated to the needs of Raritan pets and their owners.
"Social media is not a one-way street," said Dr. Newton. "While we love sharing information with our pet owners, we also love answering questions and building a support network. That's why social media is such an important tool for our practice. Many pet owners face similar behavioral problems or specialty care conditions. Our goal is to create a supportive community of pet care owners that can share their stories and experiences with other owners."
Dr. Newton says that AnimERge's embrace of social media is a natural choice for the pet emergency hospital. The hospital, which received AAHA accreditation by the American Animal Hospital Association, is committed to providing cutting-edge emergency care and specialty treatments.
"Less than 7% of specialty hospitals receive AAHA accreditation," said Dr. Newton. "We are extremely proud to be part of this select group, which reflects our on-going commitment to provide the highest quality pet emergency care."
Pet owners may connect with the emergency animal hospital on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/animerge or follow the hospital on Twitter using their handle @Animerge.