PALM BEACH – American Humane Society, the country’s first national animal welfare organization, recently hosted a free pet wellness clinic in Belle Glade, with support from Mars and PEDIGREE Foundation.

167 pets from 106 families were brought to Belle Glade Library, where veterinarians from Banfield Pet Hospital and VCA Animal Hospitals provided a range of services, including wellness exams, vaccinations, flea and tick prevention, and microchipping. Over 350 life-saving vaccines were administered at the clinic, including rabies and species-specific combinations.

167 pets from 106 families were brought to Belle Glade Library, where veterinarians from Banfield Pet Hospital and VCA Animal Hospitals provided a range of services, including wellness exams, vaccinations, flea and tick prevention, and microchipping. Pictured are Miranda Warwick and Josh Cary. [Photo courtesy American Human Society]

Jamie Phillips/Capehart Photography

The wellness clinic brought accessible pet health care to the community, equipping local pet parents with the tools and resources they need to prepare in the event of a natural disaster and safeguard the health and well-being of their cherished companions. Unfortunately, pets often get lost during natural disasters. Pets with microchips have an increased likelihood of being returned home because, while ID tags may fall off or become unreadable over time, microchips provide permanent and accessible information about the pet’s family and where to reach them.

"This clinic reflects American Humane Society's deep commitment to helping families keep their pets safe, healthy, and cared for, especially in communities vulnerable to natural disasters,” said Dr. Robin Ganzert, President and CEO of American Humane Society. “South Florida is home to our Animal Sanctuary and one of our offices, so we are especially proud to bring this vital service to a community where we live and work. We are grateful for the support from the PEDIGREE Foundation, Mars, Banfield Pet Hospital, VCA Animal Hospitals, Zoetis and the Belle Glade Library for helping us make a meaningful difference in the lives of pets and the people who love them."

Each pet also received a “trick or treat” goodie bag with food, treats, leashes, bowls, and more all at no cost

BELLE GLADE –– American Humane Society's team welcomes attendees. [Photo courtesy American Humane Society]

Jamie Phillips/Capehart Photography

“We were proud to support American Humane Society’s free pet wellness clinic in Belle Glade, FL alongside PEDIGREE Foundation, helping local pet parents access critical care and resources to stay prepared for disasters and emergencies,” said Annette Jennings, Director of Global Community Engagement and Corporate Giving for Mars. “At Mars, we’re committed to strengthening the communities where we live and work, and we are honored to partner with American Humane Society to bring this vital resource to families in need."

“At PEDIGREE Foundation, we believe that every dog deserves a loving home and the care they need to live healthy, happy lives,” said Deb Fair, Executive Director of PEDIGREE Foundation. “We’re proud of our longstanding partnership with American Humane Society to support impacted communities during a natural disaster and to deliver essential veterinary services and resources to pet families across the country. Events like the Belle Glade wellness clinic are a powerful example of how collaboration can remove barriers to pet care.”

BELLE GLADE -- Banfield veterinarians and puppy. [Photo courtesy American Humane Society]

Jamie Phillips/Capehart Photography

For more information about future events and how you can support the American Humane Society’s mission, please visit AmericanHumane.org.