At NEADS, the health of our dogs is crucial. In fact, along with training and temperament, healthcare is one of the three key elements in the making of a World Class Service Dog. Merck Animal Health has supported our healthcare efforts for many years, donating all our vaccines, Bravecto^® for dogs over 6 months old, heartworm preventative, microchips, ear medications, de-wormers, and more. So when they proposed that NEADS partner with them on a public awareness and educational campaign for Bravecto, it was a natural fit.

The BRAVECTO^® Cares campaign, which launched on May 1, showcases the critical role that Service Dogs play and the importance of keeping them healthy, including protecting them from fleas and ticks. As part of the campaign initiative, Merck Animal Health is helping support the NEADS mission with funding for dogs in training.

In addition to financial support, BRAVECTO Cares has provided an opportunity for people across the country learn about NEADS and our Service Dogs through the different elements of the campaign, including:

• A BRAVECTO Cares kit that mailed to 8,000 veterinary clinics across the US;
• A dedicated website (protectfromfleasandticks.com); and
• A satellite media tour with radio and TV stations from coast to coast.

The campaign features NEADS client Ryan DeRoche and his NEADS Service Dog, Oliver, who have done a fantastic job representing NEADS and Merck Animal Health throughout the campaign. Each kit also included a copy of the best-selling award-winner Rescue & Jessica: A Life Changing Friendship, by NEADS client Jessica Kensky and her husband Patrick Downes.

NEADS is grateful to Merck Animal Health for its role in helping us spread the word about what our Service Dogs can do for people with disabilities, as well as for its financial support. We look forward to continuing our partnership for years to come.