If you think your veterinarian is the best in America, nominate him or her for the second annual Thank Your Vet for a Healthy Pet Contest. The national short-essay contest honors America's veterinarians for their dedication to helping animals and strengthening the bond we have with our pets.

The nationwide essay contest runs from June 1, 2008, to August 31, 2008. Essays can be no longer than 300 words and should address four areas: 1) the veterinarian's outstanding care and treatment to clients, 2) commitment to the human-animal bond, 3) service to the community, and 4) devotion to the veterinary profession. For rules and to enter online, click here after June 1. Entries can also be mailed to Morris Animal Foundation, Thank Your Vet Contest, 10200 E. Girard Ave., Ste. B430, Denver, CO 80206. Entries must be submitted electronically submitted or postmarked no later than 11:59 p.m. EDT, August 31, 2008. Entries must follow the official contest rules to be considered. To receive a printed copy of the rules, call 800.243.2345.

One national winner and five regional winners will be selected by a panel of judges. Winners will be contacted by November 1, 2008, and will be honored before their peers at the February 2009 Western Veterinary Conference in Las Vegas. Winners will be featured in the March 2009 issues of Veterinary Practice News, DOG FANCY and CAT FANCY magazines. All nominees will receive a nomination certificate.

The contest is conducted by Morris Animal Foundation (MAF) and sponsored by Hill's Pet Nutrition, and DOG FANCY, CAT FANCY and Veterinary Practice News magazines, published by BowTie, Inc.