ABBOTT PARK, Ill., Nov. 13 /PRNewswire/ -- The American Veterinary Medical Foundation (AVMF), an organization based in Schaumburg, Ill., that raises and distributes funds to support veterinary medicine and animal care, has received a $10,000 donation from the animal health group at Abbott Laboratories (NYSE: ABT). The donation will be used to help the AVMF equip and finance emergency veterinarians caring for animals affected by the recent terrorist attacks, specifically the training and equipping of veterinarians stationed at the World Trade Center treating search and rescue dogs.

"We are grateful to Abbott Laboratories for their generous support at this critical time," said AVMF Executive Director Paul Amundsen. "Thanks to Abbott and other supporters like them, veterinarians can be placed where and when they are needed most."

AVMF-funded veterinarians at "ground zero" cared for all search and rescue dogs on site -- treating more than 1,000 cases. Abbott Laboratories joins more than 1,600 individuals and companies that have contributed to the animal disaster relief fund.

"Abbott is a proud supporter of the AVMF, as both organizations share the same goals of supporting and advancing animal health," said Diane Winnard, general manager for Abbott animal health. "We were saddened by the events of September 11 and are proud to assist the AVMF."

Abbott Laboratories animal health is a leading provider of perioperative products for the veterinary market. The group's product line includes advanced anesthesia products, IV sets and solutions, and other veterinary critical care products.

The American Veterinary Medical Foundation is a $4.5 million 501(c) 3 organization that advances the care and value of animals in society by raising and distributing funds in support of animal health studies, veterinary education, and animal care. Established by the American Veterinary Medical Association in 1963, the AVMF is based in northwest suburban Chicago. For more information, visit the AVMF website at www.avmf.org or call 847-925-8070, ext. 600.

Abbott Laboratories is a global, diversified health care company devoted to the discovery, development, manufacture and marketing of pharmaceuticals, nutritionals, and medical products, including devices and diagnostics. The company employs approximately 70,000 people and markets its products in more than 130 countries. In 2000, the company's sales and net earnings were $13.7 billion and $2.8 billion, respectively, with diluted earnings per share of $1.78.

Abbott's news releases and other information are available on the company's Web site at www.abbott.com .

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SOURCE Abbott Laboratories

CONTACT: Chris Bona of Abbott Laboratories, +1-847-938-5494, or Paul Amundsen of American Veterinary Medical Foundation, +1-847-925-8070 ext. 207/