Photo Credit: CMPD Animal Care & Control
CHARLOTTE, NC (News Release) – Due to cost and other barriers, pets in nearly 50 million under-resourced communities in the U.S. are without access to even the most basic veterinary care including preventative and spay/neuter services, vaccinations, dental and other medical care.
In the U.S., 70 percent of homes include pets. As research continues to reveal the benefits of the human-animal bond, a movement is underway to connect pet parents to the care their pets need to keep them and their families healthy. With a $51,000 grant from PetSmart Charities, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department Animal Care & Control (AC&C) will provide continued support for pets in need of these veterinary services by hosting monthly Bless Your Heart Community Clinics at Camp North End in Charlotte.
“These clinics are vital to help educate pet owners about heartworm disease that is very prevalent in our region. Canine heartworm disease is a life-threatening condition that is not always outwardly visible, but it can be treated and is easily preventable. The clinic’s goal is to be able to provide heartworm testing and preventatives or treatment for dogs of families that otherwise would not have access to veterinary care.” said AC&C Director, Dr. Josh Fisher.
At the clinic, dogs will receive a general wellness exam and heartworm test with a veterinarian, as well as CORE vaccines, and a microchip that links them to their owners. The heartworm tests will provide results in just a few minutes and then the clinic can provide six months of heartworm and flea prevention medication or assist with a treatment plan.
“Building on Camp North End’s holistic approach to health and wellness, we are happy to host Bless Your Heart Clinics, which provide wraparound support for pet owners. Dogs are such a special part of their families and this programming is vital in keeping them healthy,” said Varian Shrum, Community Manager at Camp North End.
This is a need-based clinic and there are limited spaces available. Appointments are required and can be reserved online here: online form.
