Westlake, Texas – October 15, 2026 -- Virbac has donated more than 29,000 doses of IVERHART MAX Chews to KC Pet Project, the municipal animal shelter for Kansas City, Missouri, to protect its dogs against heartworm disease and intestinal parasites.
Shelter treats 300 heartworm-positive dogs while screening 8,263 intakes
KC Pet Project cares for more than 16,000 pets each year. It took in 8,263 dogs over the past 12 months, and each receives preventive care at intake. The donation supports that standard of care for every dog entering the shelter.
The shelter is currently treating about 300 dogs diagnosed with heartworm while in its care, according to Dr. Heather Kennedy, chief veterinary officer of KC Pet Project.
Product combines three active ingredients against heartworm and tapeworms
IVERHART MAX Chews contain ivermectin, pyrantel pamoate and praziquantel. Kennedy described Kansas City as a heartworm hot spot and said consistent prevention is essential. She added that the product also treats tapeworms, a further benefit for shelter dogs.
Donation backs free year-long treatment for adopters of positive dogs
KC Pet Project gives adopters of heartworm-positive dogs a full year of medication at no cost. Kennedy said the donation will help the shelter continue that commitment.
The gift also supports the shelter's community outreach program, which provides supplies to Kansas City pet owners in need.
Gio Abruzzini, CEO of Virbac North America, said helping the shelter protect its dogs from a preventable disease is the kind of impact the company wants its work to have.
Virbac's safety information states that all dogs should be tested for heartworm disease before starting a preventive protocol. Gastrointestinal and neurological side effects have been reported following use of the product.