Ames Scullin O'Haire (ASO) has been awarded consumer advertising agency of record status for HEARTGARD Brand Products, manufactured and distributed by Merial Limited. HEARTGARD Plus is the number one choice of veterinarians for heartworm disease prevention and is the second largest brand in the Merial portfolio of products. Merial is a world-leading, innovation-driven animal health company, providing a comprehensive range of products to enhance the health, well-being and performance of a wide range of animals. Its 2004 sales were in excess of $1.8 billion. Merial Limited is a joint venture between Merck & Co., Inc. and Aventis, part of the sanofi-aventis Group.