Animals pat life

Today marks exactly 75 years since Animal Friends began serving the pets and people of the Pittsburgh region! In 1943, a small group of citizens made it their mission to find homes for soldiers’ pets when they left to serve in the war. Our founders took a name that clearly articulated their mission: to serve as friends to unwanted animals. And three quarters of a century later, it’s truly been an incredible journey. Starting in a rented out room in the bottom of the William Penn Hotel, our organization has grown into a bustling, 75-acre campus. Although Animal Friends has accomplished feats in the last 75 years that were nothing short of incredible, we never realized that it would grow into such a visionary, progressive organization that is never satisfied with the status quo. Before no-kill became a movement, our founders had a vision that no animal would ever be unnecessarily euthanized at Animal Friends. And, we remain committed to that premise to this day. We’re constantly str...

Before making her way to Animal Friends, a very pregnant Janis narrowly made it out of a small shelter in Kentucky. Because they were at capacity, they made temporary outdoor kennels for their resident dogs, including Janis. But just as quickly as the shelter had creatively made more space, a forthcoming winter storm was all it took to undo their hard work. And then, it went from bad to worse. Janis had given birth … growing their problem 11-fold. They needed help – and fast. The shelter reached out to a rescue group in our region that transports animals in crisis to partner organizations. That organization then contacted us to see if we could take in Janis and her puppies. We, of course, agreed. And so, Janis with her 11 puppies in tow came to Animal Friends. They immediately went into a loving foster home. Janis was the perfect pet. Her foster family quickly decided that she would become a permanent member of theirs, once her puppies were ready to find homes. But sometimes, things do...

If you have a feline family member, you’ve probably experienced the many benefits that come from having a loving bond with your kitty companion. You’ve probably also seen (or felt!) the familiar prick of those pointy paws. But, before you declaw your cat, it’s important to know the downsides – and dangers – of declawing your beloved family cat.   Why Cats Have Claws Claws help cats grip and enjoy stretches that engage and tone their backs and shoulders.  While humans walk on the soles of their feet, cats walk on their toes. Because of this, they need their claws to help them balance properly. Without claws, your cat is forced to alter the way they walk which can result in discomfort, pain and joint damage.  Cats scratch to release happiness – which is why you may witness your kitty joyfully scratching their scratching post when you return home or after a play session with you or your other felines. Why You Shouldn’t Declaw Declawing is a painful procedure that actually re...

Calli is a very friendly 7-year-old domestic short hair. Her family brought her home about a year ago, but is no longer able to give her the attention that she adores and deserves. Because of this, Calli's temporary family is searching for a more permanent arrangement for her!  Calli is microchipped and loves to be cuddled, petted and will even give little headbutts when she is craving some attention. She is a very sweet girl and can be vocal when she wants to be! Calli can live with dogs as long as they can respect her personal space. She takes some time to warm up to new people, but loves her humans once she gets to know them. Does Calli sound like the perfect companion for you? If so, contact Kerri at Kerris615@GMail.com  to set up a time to meet her!

Vikki is an incredibly friendly spayed black domestic shorthair who is about 1-2 years old. Vikki was found as a stray and taken into a home that she hoped was her perfect fit. Sadly, she has had a hard time getting along with her new feline housemate, so her temporary family is searching for a more permanent arrangement for her!   This lovely lady would be a great addition to a family looking to add an affectionate cat to their home. She has tested negative for both FIV and Feline Leukemia and is up to date on all vaccinations. Vikki even enthusiastically uses her scratching pads and litter box! Vikki is looking for a home to call her own that is ready to give her all the love and attention she deserves. Does Vikki sound like the perfect companion for you? If so, contact Ed or Ruth at 412.512.7495 or email Dustydisks1@hotmail.com  to set up a time to meet.  

As a pet owner, it’s likely that you use extra caution with certain chemicals and toxins in your home that can be harmful to your four-legged family members. But, things like insecticides and rodenticides are just scratching the surface. Keep an eye out for these everyday household items that may pose a threat to your pet’s well-being! Human Food Most of us like to show our pets how much we love them by slipping them some yummy table scraps. And, it’s not just chocolate, grapes and raisins that should stay out of your pet’s bowl. Foods like avocados, macadamia nuts, onions, garlic, and foods containing xylitol such as gum and certain peanut butters are no good. You’ll also want to be sure your pet steers clear of coffee grounds, yeast and alcohol. Cooked meats can pose a serious threat to your pet’s health, too. Bones can become brittle when cooked, increasing the chance of breaking or splintering which is a big issue when ingested by your animal companion. Human Medications We know to...

Jasmine and Iris were rescued about 4 years ago when they were just kittens. As part of a litter of young kittens, they had nowhere else to go, so a Good Samaritan who fell in love with them stepped in and gave a home to these two adorable kitties. Now 4 years old, Jasmine and Iris are in search of a new home because a new member of their family is severely allergic to cats. In their current home, they spend their days playing with each other and even get along great with a canine sibling! These wonderful, friendly and lovable kitties need a home where they will get all of the playtime, love and attention they’ve grown accustomed to. If you think your family might be the right fit for these sweet girls, contact Debbie at debbie.waldo@icloud.com .