ASPCA Provides Critical Funding for Pets Affected by Oil Spill

from July 16, 2010 ASPCA newsletter
www.aspca.org

In response to the economic hardships that continue to mount for families living along the Gulf Coast, the ASPCA, the Louisiana SPCA (LA/SPCA), Best Friends Animal Society and several local organizations have launched the Gulf Coast Companion Animal Relief Program to provide free pet care for residents of Southern Louisiana. The group's initial contribution will prevent an estimated 1,000 pets from facing relinquishment by their families.

"The oil spill has had major repercussions for families in the lower Louisiana parishes, including pet parents connected with the seafood, tourism and oil production industries," says Julie Morris, ASPCA Senior Vice President of Community Outreach.

Animal shelters in the affected communities report two to three times the number of relinquished pets over last summer. The Animal Relief Program’s free services, provided by licensed veterinarians at the Louisiana SPCA, will include:

Basic exams, including tests for feline leukemia and FIV in cats as well as heartworm in dogs;
Vaccinations;

Microchipping and registration; and Spay/neuter surgeries.

Special thanks to the following organizations for making this program a reality: Del Monte Foods, Best Friends Animal Society, Catholic Charities Archdiocese of New Orleans, Second Harvest Food Bank, St. Bernard Parish Animal Shelter, Plaquemines Animal Welfare Society, Jefferson Parish Animal Shelter, Terrebonne Parish Animal Shelter and the Louisiana SPCA.

For more information about the free services or to schedule an appointment for your pet, please visit the Louisiana SPCA.