NYS Quitline Launches “Quit for Your Pet” Campaign
Overview:
The New York State Quitline is promoting a new campaign, “Quit for Your Pet,” encouraging residents to remain tobacco-free for their pets. This initiative runs through October 31.
Campaign Details:
- Participants can submit pet photos with tobacco-free messages at nysmokefree.com/pets for a chance to win gift cards ($500 or $250) for pet supplies.
Health Risks to Pets:
- Commercial tobacco products pose risks to pets, including:
- Secondhand smoke leading to cancer and respiratory issues.
- Ingestion of tobacco (like cigarette butts) can cause poisoning.
- Thirdhand smoke residue can harm pets’ health.
Quote:
Dr. Andrew Hyland, director of the NYS Quitline, emphasized that many are motivated to quit tobacco to protect their pets.
How to Participate:
- Visitors can post on an embedded service called Kudoboard with creative pet photos or GIFs promoting a tobacco-free lifestyle.
- The campaign invites those who have quit or plan to quit for their pets.
Judging and Prizes:
- A panel will award a $500 gift card for a highly creative post and a $250 gift card for a post with high engagement, with two awards announced on October 31.
Resources Available:
- The NYS Quitline offers free coaching, nicotine replacement therapy, and support via phone at 1-866-NY-QUITS or through nysmokefree.com.
Support Tools:
- Free Quit for Your Pet cards, promotional materials, and text-support programs available via DropTheVape.org.
For more information or assistance in quitting tobacco, visit nysmokefree.com/pets or call 1-866-697-8487.
