(Zoetis Press Release 2-25-2014) - Zoetis has announced the return of its industry support program for youth involved in agriculture and veterinary medicine. For the sixth year, Zoetis is partnering with veterinarians, animal health suppliers and dealer customers to support students through the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) Foundation, Future Farmers of America (FFA), and the American Association of Bovine Practitioners (AABP) Foundation. Since its inception in 2008, this program has donated more than $5.9 million.

Through April 30, a portion of funds from eligible purchases of Zoetis cattle and equine products will be directed to local FFA chapters and/or veterinary student scholarships through the AABP and AAEP foundations on behalf of local veterinarians and animal health suppliers.

In previous years, more than 1,000 veterinarians, animal health suppliers, and dealer customers from across the country have participated in the program. FFA chapters and veterinary students continue to benefit each year from the support of these organizations.

For former veterinary student scholarship winner and AAEP member Megan Hays, VMD, who earned her degree from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, this support means a continued commitment to the future of veterinarians.

“This program provides an opportunity to give back to the upcoming generations of veterinarians,” Hays said. “By providing mentorship, hands-on training, and scholarship opportunities for student veterinarians, practicing veterinarians and organizations show that they are interested in and dedicated to building a strong network of veterinarians with the knowledge, opportunity and leadership capabilities necessary to continue the growth of our field of work.”

The industry support program and donations are possible only because of the generosity of customers, said Rob Kelly, vice president of U.S. Cattle and Equine Operations for Zoetis.

“Last year, our customers helped contribute $1.2 million to more than 1,800 local FFA chapters across the country and AABP and AAEP veterinary student scholarships,” Kelly said. “We’re thankful for the continued support and the important work these organizations do to prepare young people for a future in American agriculture.”

For more information on how to enroll in the 2014 Industry Support Program, call 866/611-2626, contact your local Zoetis representative, or visit zoetisUS.com/industrysupport.