At up to $500 per animal, heartworm treatment doesn't come cheap. But for 30 dogs found by or surrendered to the Chattanooga Humane Educational Society, the medication is the difference between life and death.
Before summer progresses and brings more animals with the mosquito-transmitted illness to the shelter, officials are hoping the fourth annual Drives for Lives golf tournament can help cover some of the rising costs.
Last year, the drive raised more than $10,000, said HES Development Manager Taylor Hixson. This year, the goal for the June 17 event is to get close to $20,000.
"It's been growing every year, so we just want to expand on what we've done," she said of the event, held at Bear Trace Golf Course at Harrison Bay.
Golfers will receive a catered lunch from Taconooga with beers from Heaven and Ale. Themed cocktails will also be available, with a complimentary chair massage and wine tasting at the end of the day while participants await the final scores.
Prizes for winning teams range from a cabin at the Ocoee to Chattanooga Football Club tickets, gift cards to area restaurants and more.
Teams of two can register for $200, while teams of four can register for $400. For more information, to sign up or to donate, visit heschatt.org.