Local doctor offers free pet clinic

Treating animals is Dr. Eric Heitman's life and career.

But lately, the owner of the Ottawa Animal Hospital has noticed a disturbing trend. As the economy deteriorates, so does the health of many pets.

"There's a portion of our population who wants to take care of their pets, but just (doesn't) have the money to do routine things," Heitman said.

So he is going to help.

On May 16, Heitman and two staff doctors will hold their first Helping Hearts clinic. The doctors will donate their time and provide: free rabies vaccines, preventive deworming for dogs and cats, heartworm tests for dogs and complimentary heartworm pills.

Simple preventive care, Heitman said, goes a long way in protecting pets and owners.

"While dogs and cats are great pets and overall very safe, they do have the ability to cary parasites and worms into the home that can potentially spread to people," Heitman said.

Without the money to care for their pets, people are abandoning them.

About 400 pets are surrendered to the Harbor Humane Society each month, which serves Ottawa County. That is about double the amount of pets surrendered two years ago.

The Humane Society of Kent County had 735 animals handed over in the past 11 months, due to eviction, expense, moving or unemployment.

"In our economy, it's often the pets that end up suffering, and we're trying to alleviate some of that," Heitman said.

Just like a healthy pet can help alleviate stress when times get tough, he added.

"Whether it be financially tough times, or emotionally tough times, our pets are usually there to support us," Heitman said. "In fact, they're there to support us no matter what."

The clinic will take place at the Ottawa Animal Hospital, 620 Butternut Drive, in Holland.

You will need a signed letter from a social worker or clergy to qualify. The registration deadline is May 10. See www.ottawaanimalhospital.com.