DENVER-For pet owners who have been displaced by Hurricane Katrina, a new program is available to assist them with receiving veterinary examinations at no charge. The program is a joint effort of The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) and the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA).
The HSUS/AAHA Katrina Pet Wellness Program provides financial assistance for basic veterinary wellness checkups of pets displaced by the storm. Managed through the AAHA Helping Pets Fund, the program offers reimbursement to veterinary practices of up to $125 per pet for basic treatments including physical examinations, vaccinations, heartworm medications and short-term supply of chronic medications. Assistance through the program is available only through veterinary practices that are accredited by the American Animal Hospital Association.
"For the pets that have suffered through Katrina, a veterinary checkup is a key step to getting a good, healthy start," says Daniel S. Aja, DVM, AAHA president. "This program offers needed assistance so that despite any financial hardships, pet health care does not get overlooked."
Complete program guidelines, applications, and a directory of participating AAHA-accredited hospitals are available online at www.healthypet.com. A referral to a participating hospital is also available by calling the American Animal Hospital Association at 800/883-6301.
"The Humane Society of the United States is currently saving thousands of pets left behind after the evacuation of New Orleans," said Dr. Andrew N. Rowan, HSUS executive vice president. "We would like to help these and other pets that may have been evacuated with their owners to be able to receive a basic health checkup wherever they have ended up. This program will help those animals receive immediate medical attention and also assist their care-givers in providing for their non-human family members."
The American Animal Hospital Association is an international organization of more than 34,000 veterinary care providers who treat companion animals. Established in 1933, the association is well known among veterinarians for its high standards for hospitals and pet health care. For pet care information or a referral to an AAHA hospital, pet owners can visit the AAHA website at www.healthypet.com.
The Humane Society of the United States is the nation's largest animal protection organization representing more than 9 million members and constituents. The non-profit organization is a mainstream voice for animals, with active programs in companion animals and equine protection, disaster preparedness and response, wildlife and habitat protection, animals in research and farm animal welfare. The HSUS protects all animals through education, investigation, litigation, legislation, advocacy, and field work. The group is based in Washington and has numerous field representatives across the country.
The AAHA Helping Pets Fund was established by the AAHA Foundation in 2005 to help those in need access quality veterinary care for sick or injured pets. The AAHA Helping Pets Fund provides funds for pets even when they have been abandoned or their owners are experiencing financial hardship. For more information about the AAHA Helping Pets Fund, visit www.aahahelpingpets.org or call 866-4HELPETS (866/443-5738).
