Animals pat life

Bark N'at is a Pittsburgh-themed party fit for even the most experienced yinzers. But, we wanted to help some of the out-of-towners understand what Bark N'at is all about. That's why we came up with a few helpful tips so even if you're not a Pittsburgh native, you'll fit right in! Parking Chair You won't need to hold your place in line with one of these if you register online today! Crick A smaller version of a river, like the Allegheny that runs beneath the Roberto Clemente Bridge where we'll be partying all evening long at Bark N'at! Chipped Chopped Ham A local delicacy you might not find in our food truck alley. But don't worry, we'll have plenty of other delicious hometown favorites to choose from! Jimmies Another name for sprinkles ... not to be confused with our Lead Yinzer, Jimmy Krenn. Dahntahn Also known as downtown. This is the only place you'll want to be on Sat., June 24 for Bark N'at on the Clemente Bridge! So how's abou...

By Melanie Lippert, Clinic Services Program Assistant Most people know that their pets should be vaccinated, but do they know what these vaccines actually protect against? It’s worth the time to understand what vaccines your pets need and why they’re so important. The one vaccine that is required by state law for every dog and cat is the rabies vaccine . Most are familiar with rabies but don’t consider the risk of their household pets transmitting this deadly virus. Rabies is most commonly transmitted through wild animals such as skunks, raccoons and bats. Once contracted, there is no cure for rabies in animals or in humans. The introduction of the rabies vaccine has drastically decreased the number of cases over the years. Another vaccination, commonly called DHLPP , is strongly recommended by most animal care professionals. This vaccine protects against up to five different conditions that can be deadly to dogs: distemper, hepatitis, leptospirosis, parvovirus and parainflue...

Read: The "S Dogs" (part 2) In one of our dog kennels, a staff member was finishing some paperwork at a makeshift desk made from an overturned milk crate. In the kennels surrounding her were about a half dozen of the S Dogs. Occasionally tossing a treat to the kennels’ occupants, she went about her work as the dog nervously paced back and forth. Although it may have seemed like an odd sight to some, this was one of the critical first steps of their rehabilitation. This was getting them accustomed to the presence of people. This continued for weeks and months. And slowly but surely, terrified looks and shell-shocked stares transitioned into fleeting eye contact or a cautious sniff. Each of these small victories were building on one another as the S Dogs learned to trust. Then one day as our staff member went in to complete some paperwork, she opened a kennel door in hopes that the occupant would take a few brave steps out. From the corner of her eye, she saw him approach. Care...

Hercules Mulligan is an affectionate and friendly 2-year-old Puggle who is looking for a loving home that can provide him with the time and attention he needs. This playful boy gets along with other animals and loves to go for walks and romp around at the dog park. He has received basic obedience training and has been working with an in-home trainer. He has a stubborn streak but just wants all of the attention of the people in his life. This little guy is still figuring out the finer points of personal space and can be a little too generous with affectionate headbutts and kisses. He's working hard to overcome this, but would probably be a better fit for a home without small children. Hercules could benefit from having room to run around so he can get the exercise he needs. After 8 months in his home, Hercules' family has learned how sweet of a pup he is, but they know he needs a family that is able to provide him with the space, supervision and training that h...