Animals pat life

Crisp fall temperatures have arrived and you may be looking for some indoor fun with your four-legged friends. Here are some enrichment activities that are just what you need to keep your pets stimulated (both physically and mentally!) once the cool weather arrives. Rabbit Enrichment Toys Wheat Grass Containers Grow wheat grass in a small plastic container – apple sauce or dressing cups work very well. Your rabbit will enjoy grazing on a healthy snack in a fun new way! Cardboard Ball Cut a paper towel tube into rings. Insert one ring into another to make an X. Continue to add rings to create a round ball. Add hay to the center and allow your rabbit to have fun tossing and tearing.   Bubbles for Cats Everyone loves bubbles, and your cat is no exception! Bubbles can provide something new for your feline friend to look at and the fun, unpredictable movement stimulates her mind. And, the adventurous kitties will love the excitement of popping them! You can even find several different b...

Halloween is just around the corner! While you’re putting together your costume, stocking up on candy and transforming your yard into a spooky graveyard, remember that holidays like Halloween can be stressful times for your pets. Animals don’t understand why their best two-legged friends are wearing scary disguises or why the doorbell keeps ringing all night long. To keep Halloween fun and safe for everyone in the family, consider the following pet safety tips ... Sniff Test If you or your children are going to dress up for Halloween, allow your pet to smell the costume before putting it on. Beat the Sweets Keep candy – especially chocolate and gum – away from your pets. Certain candies, wrappers and ingredients can be poisonous and even fatal for pets if ingested. Leave Fido at Home Don’t bring your dog (or other pets) trick or treating! The costumes, noise, music, bright lights and decorations could be overwhelming for them. Try finding a quiet room where your pets can curl up with t...

With her face out the window and nose to the wind, it’s clear this 10-year old Labrador Retriever mix is relishing every minute of the car ride with one of her favorite volunteers. This is Sadie. And, seeing her enjoy her time away from her kennel, walking carefree with a stuffed bear in her mouth you’d never guess the past she so narrowly escaped. Sweet Sadie was found tied up outside during a snowstorm in January without protection from the frigid elements. Once she was rescued, she was taken to a local shelter and transferred to Animal Friends. As Sadie was getting settled into her second chance, our Medical team soon discovered that she was in need of some specialized care. Sadie was diabetic and needed medication to help manage her condition. So, we jumped into action and created a plan for her. Our compassionate staff and volunteers kept a close eye on her around the clock. But sadly, Sadie’s diabetes had gone untreated for so long that it’s causing her to slowly go blind. But, w...

Cheerio’s journey brought him to Animal Friends after he was transferred to Animal Friends from another organization. Originally found as a stray, he had contracted a serious disease that left him blind. To alleviate his pain, our Medical team made the decision to remove his eyes. Once he recovered, Cheerio quickly became a favorite among staff and volunteers, cuddling and giving lots of kisses to everyone he met. But, as Cheerio waited to find his new home, it was clear that he would need a family as special and loving as he was. That’s when Rose and John came to visit. After spending some time getting to know the dogs on our website, Rose remembers thinking that she wanted to get another dog, but thought she would wait a few years. But then she saw Cheerio. “I thought he looked adorable but was uncertain about adopting a blind dog. Then my daughter saw the video about Cheerio on Facebook and called me saying, ‘You've got to go get this little fellow!’ I had my doubts, but after w...

Fluffy is an 11-year-old sweetheart who is ready to cuddle up and find a family to shower her with the love she deserves. Her current family had been caring for her as a stray when they noticed Fluffy beginning to limp. So, they brought her into their home and got her the veterinary care she so desperately needed. Now, Fluffy is ready to relax and enjoy her golden years in a home that can give her love, attention and her three favorite things: her blanket, catnip and soft food. Although she is deaf, Fluffy lives her life to the fullest and melts the hearts of everyone she meets. She can be a bit shy at first, but with a little patience and head scratches, she is sure to be a loyal companion. If you are in need of a calm and relaxing friend, Fluffy could be the cat for you! Does Fluffy sound like the missing piece to your home? Contact Melissa at  HoneyBeeRohm@Comcast.net .

Jewel is a sweet girl who is in search of her perfect family. Her current family made the difficult decision to begin looking for a new home for this her after a recent change to their living situation . Just shy of 2 years old, this gorgeous Siberian Husky loves life and is full of energy. Jewel’s favorite things in life are long walks, playing with other dogs and squeaky tennis balls. She would do best in a home with a fenced-in yard where people are home often – she loves company! This pup also enjoys riding in the car and is housebroken. Jewel may also enjoy a canine companion as a new sibling. If you are looking for a new and energetic best friend, Jewel just might be the girl for you. If you would like to meet Jewel, contact Ben at bhamm1991@gmail.com or 412.527.1510 .

Thor is a 3-year-old American Staffordshire Terrier who was adopted about a year ago. He is a lovable and cuddly boy who sometimes does not realize how big he really is! Thor loves to lay on laps and is always ready to snuggle. He is neutered, up to date on all vaccines, microchipped and is also house trained. Thor loves to go for walks with his people and absolutlely adores playtime! His current family has three young children. Although he does well with them, they feel he would be a better fit for a family with dog-savvy children who are 10 years or older. Thor would do best as the only pet in his new home to make sure he receives all the attention he deserves. He wants all your love to himself! Does Thor sound like the missing piece to your home? Contact Kelly at  kcmedure@yahoo.com to learn how you can meet him.