Heartworm Tests For $10

April 15, 2009 - During a three hour clinic on April 28th, the Spartanburg Humane Society will be conducting heartworm tests for dogs over 6 months old. This special service is being offered in recognition of April's designation as heartworm awareness month.

For only $10, pet owners may bring their dogs for a heartworm test and a brief physical exam by an SHS veterinarian. Inexpensive heartworm preventative will also be available for purchase after the exam.

Veterinarians recommend starting puppies on heartworm prevention at 8 weeks old. Pet owners with puppies between 8 weeks and 6 months old will be eligible to purchase heartworm preventative after a brief physical exam.

The special April 28th clinic will be held outdoors at the SHS, located at 150 Dexter Road in Spartanburg. Hours are from 1:30 pm to 4:30 pm. No appointments are necessary. Clients will be served in the order they arrive. All pets must be on a secure leash.

"We find it very troubling that over 12% of dogs tested positive for heartworm disease at the shelter in 2008," Sandy Christiansen, president and CEO, said. "This not only tells us that dogs in our community are not protected, but that pet owners are not aware that their pets are infected by this serious disease."
The SHS tests for heartworm in all dogs over 6 months old, prior to placing them for adoption.

Transmitted by mosquito bites, heartworm is a deadly disease for dogs who are not protected. Although heartworm disease is easily prevented, it remains a major problem for dogs in the Upstate and South Carolina.

According to a study conducted by the American Heartworm Society, the majority of participating veterinary clinics in South Carolina reported an average of 26 - 99 confirmed cases of heartworm disease in 2007 (see attached graphic). Many SC clinics reported more than 100 cases.

"We know that heartworm disease is a major concern in our community. Dogs need to be tested annually and placed on preventative year round," Christiansen said. "By offering low cost heartworm testing, we hope individuals who may otherwise not be able to afford it will take advantage of the opportunity to protect their dogs from this deadly and preventable disease."

For more information on heartworm, visit the American Heartworm Society at www.heartwormsociety.org. For more information on heartworm testing at the SHS or on other SHS programs, please contact Sandy Christiansen (864.583.4805, ext. 104) or visit the SHS website at www.spartanburghumane.org.

The Spartanburg Humane Society is a 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to provide quality care to lost and unwanted pets while raising community awareness about issues affecting companion animals. In addition to providing shelter and care to thousands of animals in need each year, the SHS offers programs and services aimed at creating a safer and healthier community for pets. These programs include low cost veterinary services, dynamic humane education programs, and dog training and pet behavior consultation.