Orange County Animal Services
2769 Conroy Rd., Orlando, FL 32839
Contact: Kathleen Kennedy, (407) 254-9249

For Immediate Release

Orange County Animal Services Encourages Prevention Measures for Pet Owners

ORLANDO, Fla.—August 6, 2009—Orange County Animal Services today reminds pet  owners to take steps to protect their pets from a debilitating disease.

“Heartworm disease is a silent killer,” said Katie Lockett, Manager of Orange County Animal Services. “It affects thousands of animals in our community, but many pet owners are unaware of the danger facing their pets.”

Heartworms result from the bite of a mosquito, infect primarily dogs and progress into a disease that affects the heart and lungs. The worms damage blood vessels and reduce the heart's pumping ability, resulting in severe lung and heart disease that can result in death. Though treatable, the treatment process can be difficult on the animal, lengthy and expensive.

“Last year alone, nearly 600 animals tested heartworm positive at our shelter. This figure shows us how widespread the disease is in our community, and we want to make sure pet owners understand that it’s inexpensive and easy to prevent heartworm disease,” said Lockett.

Preventing heartworm disease consists of a simple monthly chewable, tablet or topical dose that can be prescribed by veterinarians. Many chewables cost less than $5 per month. Pets should be tested prior to starting on heartworm preventative.

Orange County Animal Services tests all dogs for heartworms prior to adoption.

For more information about preventing heartworm disease and finding a veterinarian in your area, please visit www.ocfl.net/pethealth.

About Orange County Animal Services
Orange County Animal Services is one of Central Florida’s largest pet rescue and adoption centers. Last year, Animal Services received more than 24,000 animals at its shelter. For 40 years, the agency’s mission has been to protect pets and people in Orange County. Its vision is to give abandoned and neglected pets a second chance to live long, healthy lives in safe, loving homes.

###