The American Veterinary Medical Association is taking advantage of the season to advance awareness of its profession (it's not just for dogs and cats) and of animal health.

It's a little-known fact, but AVMA president Joe Kinnarney also is the official veterinarian of the North Pole. He pronounced Rudolph, Donner, Blixen and the others fit to fly after their annual health checkup.

"Santa's reindeer need to be in tip-top shape to complete their Christmas Eve flight on time, so it's vital that they receive a pre-trip veterinary exam to make sure they are free of any injuries that might slow them down," Kinnarney said in a statement accompanying a video produced by AVMA. "Because the reindeer will be visiting all corners of the globe, we need to make sure they are up to date on their vaccinations and free of disease so they don't pick up or spread any infections to other animals around the world."

The animals were inspected for diseases such as brucellosis, tuberculosis and chronic wasting disease. Santa is required to carry a certificate ensuring the reindeer are no threat to animal or public health as they cross international borders. The reindeer also will receive a health checkup on their return Christmas morning.

"Dr. Kinnarney's work is consistent with the role veterinarians play every day to ensure the health of animals, people and the environment across the globe," AVMA said in a statement. "Far from just being ‘dog and cat doctors,' veterinarians work with all kinds of species, in all types of environments, to make the world a healthier place for all forms of life."

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