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PetConnections

PETS AFTER DARK GIVES NEW POWER TO PET PARENTS!

New PAD STANDARD Veterinary Tele-Health Plan Is Only $19.95 A Month Ends Needless After-Hours Trips to ER – and Related Stress, Wait Times & Costs

PETS AFTER DARK, the after-hours veterinary tele-health service that provides pet parents with expert answers and care recommendations during weeknights and weekends, announced the launch of PAD STANDARD, a breakthrough new subscription plan that makes expert after-hours veterinary care instantly available for only $19.95 a month.

PAD Standard provides tele-health consultations Monday–Friday 7 PM–Midnight and during weekends 8 AM–Midnight.

How It Works: A PAD Standard subscription provides immediate after-hours connection to an expert Pets After Dark veterinarian, including video call and chat/SMS consultation options, and a consultation summary report for you and your regular veterinarian. Subscribers can add additional household pets for only $5 per pet, per month, up to three pets.

“No more needless visits to emergency clinics during weeknights and weekends,” said Pets After Dark CEO Howard Swimmer. “PAD Standard make expert after-hours veterinary tele-health more accessible to more people than ever before. At only $19.95 a month, it’s an easy, affordable way for pet parents to get expert answers to pet care issues and gain a powerful new sense of control and peace of mind.”

Expert studies show that up to 70-percent of veterinary emergency clinic visits are unnecessary or avoidable, and that the pet care issue at hand can be handled with a visit to your regular veterinarian during regular business hours – without the stress, wait times and high costs of a visit to a veterinary emergency clinic.

“Many pet parents default to an emergency clinic visit because it’s after-hours, they need answers and they feel they have no other choice,” said Pets After Dark Medical Director Dr. Caroline Simard-Swimmer, DVM. “Our PAD Standard plan gives them an easily affordable alternative.”

Visit WWW.MYPETSAFTERDARK.COM and subscribe to PAD Standard today.

CORRESPONDENCE

pghpetconnections@gmail.com

412-738-4233

PITTSBURGH PETCONNECTIONS QUARTERLY

Published by All Life Media, LLC. Pittsburgh PetConnections was created in 2012. Our mission is to publish a high quality, informative publication focused on the Human-Animal Bond. We support local businesses and also assist local non-profit businesses for pets and people, to give back to our great Pittsburgh communities.

MAGAZINE PUBLICATION STAFF

Carla Mader, Publisher

Pamella Solomon, Graphic Designer

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Kristin Hermann

April Minech

Bernadette Kazmarski

Becky L. Morrow, DVM MS CAWA

from the publisher

Welcome to the Winter 2025 Edition of PetConnections!

Dear Pet Lovers,

We appreciate you picking up a copy and reading our Winter 2025 issue of PetConnections! We have all the fun winter events going into 2026 that you won’t want to miss! Also, more stories and tips to make this holiday and winter season healthy and fun for you and your furry family!

IN THIS ISSUE:

Here are a few highlights on the many articles in this issue:

COVER STORY: Legacy and Spirit of the Great Pyrenees. Read about the organization that Lynn Pilarski founded and the legacy of this amazing breed!

RESCUE & SHELTER SECTION: Tip on the many ways you can get involved with your favorite local rescue or shelter organization.

Bernadette Kazmarski writes about litterbox tips for people... and cats!

EQUINE AFFAIRS: Learn from top-notch Dressage instructor, Kristin Hermann, on how to take an amazing Dressage photo.

NEWS & EVENTS: Fall is packed with exciting pet-friendly events! Stay in the loop by following us on Facebook at facebook.com/petconnectionsmagazine or visiting our revamped website at www.petconnections.pet.

Share your events, pet remembrances, or contest entries by emailing pghpetconnections@gmail.com for a chance to be featured online and in print!

GET INVOLVED

Support local shelters through volunteering, donating supplies, or attending events.

Promote your business with our affordable advertising options! Directory listings start at just $99/year, with featured listings at $299, appearing both in print and online. Contact our sales team at pghpetconnections@gmail.com for details.

ABOUT US: PetConnections is published quarterly (March, June, September, and a special Holiday issue in December). Our print copies are restocked every six weeks at distribution sites, but our online reach is bigger than ever, with over One million impressions! Subscribe for your personal copy or explore our fullservice pet media solutions to grow your business at www.petconnections.pet.

Please follow us on Instagram and Facebook (petconnectionsmagazine) for daily tips, articles, and real-time event updates.

Wishing you and your pets a fun and festive holiday season and Happy New Year!

Warmly,

Carla Mader Publisher

Small ad budget? Highlight a new service, product or business, affordably! We have you covered with our directory listings for your business starting at $99 per year and featured directories $299, and these are both in print and on our website directories. Contact our sales team or email us for more information on directories and advertising.

PetConnections is published quarterly as follows: March, June, September, and special Holiday issue in early December!

Our print copy distribution sites will be replenished every 6 weeks. Our online presence has always been much greater than in print with now over 600,000 impressions! To subscribe to your own personal copy of PetConnections, please contact us below.

Did you know? PetConnections has evolved into a full-service specialized pet media company, providing services for advertising in print and digital marketing platforms to help our sponsors grow their businesses. Contact us below for information on advertising or sponsoring!

Please submit any correspondence to: pghpetconnections@gmail.com Please check us out on the web & subscribe at: www.petconnections.pet Follow and “Like” us on Facebook! https://www.facebook.com/share/15ePn6iKf3/

provides guidance and support to foster parents before and during placement. Loving and caring for a dog come first; training and medical needs follow as needed.

“You know, when people ask me why I love the Great Pyrenees, I always pause — because it’s not just about loving a breed, it’s about being transformed by them. The Pyrenees are these magnificent, gentle giants who carry centuries of history in their bones. They were bred to guard flocks in the mountains, yet what they guard most fiercely today is your heart. There’s a paradox in them that I find breathtaking: they are powerful enough to stand against wolves, yet tender enough to lean their massive frame against you just to say, ‘I’m here.’ Their eyes hold a kind of ancient wisdom, as if they’ve seen the world’s storms and chosen peace anyway. For me, the Great Pyrenees symbolize the balance I strive for in life — strength without aggression, loyalty without condition, love without limits. When one of these dogs chooses you, it feels like the mountains themselves have placed a guardian at your side. And that’s why my love for them is so Solid: they remind me every day that true greatness is quiet, steadfast, and deeply kind.” – Lynn Pilarski

Interested in more about how to help the Great Pyreneese rescue? Lynn suggests participating in events! Volunteers are needed for everything from manning a table or running errands to make sure things go smoothly.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Great Pyrenees fundraising Bingo at Mulligan’s Bar and Grill 1013 Lebanon Road, West Mifflin, PA 15122 Set for April 12th from 12:00 til 4:00 tickets are $40.00 includes 10 bingo games, Lunch, soft drinks and dessert. We also have our Coach Purse raffle ticket sale... on going til the end of March. Tickets are $40.00 and you have a chance to win everyday thru the month of April. For additional Information on either of these events/fundraisers - reach out to lapyr5@live.com www.swpapyr.org

5 Impactful Ways to Support Local Pet and Horse Rescue and Shelter Organizations

By Carla Mader

Local rescue groups and shelters quietly carry a tremendous responsibility: caring for abandoned, neglected, or surrendered pets and horses who need a safe place to land. These organizations often operate on tight budgets, rely heavily on volunteers, and depend on the generosity of animal lovers in the community. If you’re looking for ways to make a meaningful difference, here are five powerful ways you can support them.

1. MAKE MONETARY DONATIONS

If you don’t have the time or ability to volunteer, a direct monetary donation is one of the most impactful ways to support your favorite rescue or shelter.

Many organizations operate as registered 501(c)(3) nonprofits, which means your donation may be tax-deductible—an added bonus to helping animals in need.

Shelters face significant day-to-day expenses, including:

Staff wages

Building rent or mortgage

Utilities

Facility maintenance and repairs

Fuel and transportation

Veterinary care is often the largest ongoing expense. Routine exams, vaccinations, medications, spay and neuter and other surgeries, emergency treatment, and specialized care can cost thousands of dollars each month.

Donations ensure animals receive timely, quality medical care.

Food is another never-ending need. While feed donations are wonderful, not all animals can eat the same brands or formulas. Many rescued dogs, cats, and horses have allergies, dietary restrictions, or require specialized nutrition.

Financial contributions allow staff to purchase exactly what is needed when it’s needed. Simply put—donations keep the entire operation running.

2. SHOP AND DONATE SUPPLIES

A quick shopping trip can go a long way. Consider picking up an extra bag of dog, cat, or horse feed when you’re at the store. Before purchasing, check with the rescue about preferred brands or specific diets they rely on.

Useful items you can donate include:

• Treats, toys, and chews

• Collars, leashes, and harnesses

• Pet beds and blankets

• Cat litter and cleaning supplies

• Grooming tools

• Horse feed, hay, and supplements

Winter horse blankets, fly masks, and lead ropes

Pine shavings or straw for stall bedding

Some shelters also run small in-house shops or thrift stores. Shopping there not only gets you unique finds, but the proceeds go directly back into funding rescue operations.

3. VOLUNTEER YOUR TIME — OR OPEN YOUR HOME

Volunteers are truly the backbone of rescue organizations. Even just a few hours a week can make a significant impact.

HANDS-ON

VOLUNTEERING

Rescues often need help with:

• Dog walking

• Cleaning kennels or stalls

• Feeding and watering animals

• Bathing and grooming

• Transporting animals to vet appointments

• Assisting at adoption events

Most organizations provide training, making volunteering accessible even if you’ve never done it before.

FOSTERING

If you have experience with animals and the space in your home, fostering can be life-changing—for both you and the animal. Many smaller rescues operate solely through foster networks, since they do not have physical facilities.

FOSTERING HELPS:

Animals recover from illness, injury, or trauma

Your temporary care can be the bridge that leads an animal to a permanent, loving home.

4. ATTEND AND SUPPORT EVENTS

Rescues frequently host events such as fundraisers, adoption days, open houses, tack sales, silent auctions, or community outreach programs. Simply attending—or bringing friends—helps raise awareness and funds.

Examples of EVENTS you might support:

• Charity dinners

• Bingo nights or raffles

• Holiday photo sessions with pets

• Benefit concerts

• Walk-a-thons or pony rides

• Craft or vendor fairs

Your presence helps boost morale, creates community connections, and directly supports the animals.

5. GET INVOLVED IN CREATIVE WAYS

Not all contributions require money or physical labor. Many rescues rely on specialized skills to help run their operations.

YOU CAN SUPPORT BY OFFERING:

Social media promotion – Sharing posts helps animals get seen and adopted faster. Website or graphic design – Flyers, event posters, and online branding are always needed.

Photography or videography – Quality photos drastically improve adoption chances. Marketing or public relations support –Helping rescues connect with donors and sponsors.

Grant writing – Assisting with applications that can provide thousands in funding.

Administrative help – Data entry, phone calls, or managing email lists.

Even small acts—like sharing a fundraiser link or telling a friend about an adoptable pet—can make a huge difference.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Young kittens or puppies grow in a safe environment

Overcrowded shelters free up kennel space Hard-to-place animals receive one-on-one support

Supporting local pet and horse rescue organizations is not just about helping animals— it strengthens your entire community. Whether you give time, money, supplies, or simply amplify their message, every act of kindness contributes to a better life for animals who depend on human compassion.

aware of the horrors of war and their lasting effects, the brotherhood (sisterhood) of veterans, and the role medical service dogs play in the prevention of veteran suicide.

We often see war as glorified but the horror of war remains with veterans throughout their lives. One veteran who spoke to my Duquesne class told a story of the night terrors he experiences remembering seeing an enemy soldier burn to death. My friend’s father who was a medic in the Korean War still has nightmares about the people he was unable to save.

Many others suffer traumatic brain injury and seizures. PTSD, night terrors, and other consequences of serving in our military often make returning to civilian life unbearable often in resulting in suicide. It is estimated that 22 veterans a day commit suicide (https://stopsoldiersuicide. org) Two retired former veterans Tony Accamando and George D’Angelo after learning of the critical role dogs play in preventing veterans suicide founded Life Changing Service Dogs for Veterans with the goal of raising funds for 22 dogs.

The organization has far surpassed their original goal and continues to raise funds to help their fellow veterans. The organization is completely dedicated to helping veterans have a second chance at life. Guardian angels medical Service dogs who has provided the dogs can boast that not a single veteran who has received a Guardian Angel medical service dog has committed suicide.

One marine Craig told my students how he had his suicide planned until he received the lifesaving, Foxy. Craig always says Foxy has my 6. Foxy and other service dogs have enabled Craig and many other veterans to return to a normal active civilian life.

Foxy is not just a dog she is a lifesaver totally committed to Craig. While the VA often prescribes drugs, Life Changing Service Dogs for Veterans in their continuing commitment to their fellow veterans helps veterans to become paired with a dog that not only prevents their suicide but returns them to a normal life.

To fail to understand the bond between humans and other species is to ignore the impact that bond has on our veterans and first responders. Life Changing Service Dogs for Veterans not only realizes the significant role the dogs play in the lives of so many but because of their undying commitment to their fellow veterans continue to selfishly work to enable them to be paired with a dog like Foxy. As a side note, ADA has also classified miniature horses as service animals. I am looking forward to the day a miniature horse attends one of my classes. Horses like dogs and cats are able to read human emotions and have the ability to heal humans.

They are not just a dog or a horse but often a lifesaving link for those who have given so much for others. More information on Life Changing Service Dogs and the contribution dogs make to human healing can be found at http:// www.padogsforvets.org

SCAN HERE TO GIVE

PET HEALTH AND WELLNESS

By Becky L. Morrow, DVM, MS, CAWA

As a shelter veterinarian directing a high-volume spay/neuter clinic and a rescue that cares for many sick and injured cats, I’ve spent a lot of time in surgery.

SHAME”

One thing that may be surprising is that, despite all those procedures, we keep very few “cones,” or e-collars, in the clinic. In my early private-practice years, they were almost automatic after surgery. Spay? Cone. Neuter? Cone. Lump removal?

PROTECTINGStitches W h i l

You guessed it—cone. The logic was simple: no licking, no trouble. As a surgeon, I understand that thinking. But after years in rescue medicine, watching hundreds of cats recover from surgeries and other procedures, I realized that e-collars were rarely needed. Very few cats lick or chew their incisions enough to cause problems. It’s reasonable to ask, if cones prevent complications, what’s the harm in using them “just in case”?

TIRIPSgnivreserP - gniknihteR “ hT

If you’ve ever watched your dog or cat bump sadly into furniture in a plastic e-collar, you already know they aren’t exactly comfortable. A research study that surveyed dog and cat owners confirmed what many of us see with our own pets: most people felt their pet’s quality of life was worse while wearing a cone. Eating, drinking, walking, sleeping, and playing all became more difficult. Pets sometimes bumped into furniture or other animals, got stuck in doorways, or became anxious and withdrawn. I’ve seen similar reactions in our rescue cats and patients. Some cats sit like statues and barely move while wearing an e-collar. Others refuse to eat altogether. Quite a few owners admit they take the cone off whenever they can supervise, just to give everyone a break.

That doesn’t mean we never use cones. There are situations where more protection is absolutely necessary. For example, we don’t automatically use an e-collar for IV catheters, since most cats tend to leave them alone, but we do for blocked cats with urinary catheters to prevent them from removing the catheter and blocking again. Sometimes we must place external sutures or perform intricate surgeries where early suture removal could have serious consequences. The surgery to permanently prevent urinary blockage in cats is a good example. If a cat damages that site, it might not be possible to repair it. In those cases, a barrier is not optional.

I completely understand the concern about self-trauma, but we should not treat e-collars as a harmless default. So how do we reduce the need for them without putting healing at risk?

A lot of the answer lies in what happens in the surgery room. From a veterinary perspective, good technique dramatically lowers the need for cones. Small incisions, gentle tissue handling, properly buried absorbable sutures, and excellent pain control all reduce a pet’s urge to lick and chew. These are the things we teach our veterinary students. When those elements are in place, most animals don’t bother their incisions enough to require an e-collar. Of course, there will always be some patients who do need extra protection, but even then, there are options. Not all e-collars are created equal. The big, opaque plastic cones most people picture are often the least comfortable. They block vision, make it hard for pets to navigate, and can trap them in tight spaces. Clear plastic cones can help somewhat with visibility, but they’re still stiff and awkward, and many animals struggle to drink from bowls while wearing them. Soft fabric cones and inflatable “donut” collars are sometimes a better option. We once used a soft cone for a cat with a non-healing wound so she couldn’t make it worse, yet she could still eat, drink, and move around normally. Inflatable collars, which sit more like a neck pillow, are often better tolerated by dogs and can still prevent chewing at many body sites.

Another strategy is to protect the wound instead of collaring the whole pet. We use this approach frequently in our rescue, where we see many traumatic injuries. A small, well-placed bandage over a limb wound, for example, can be far less disruptive than a cone. Soft body coverings are another tool we reach for regularly. Pet “onesies” or commercial recovery suits can protect belly or chest incisions very effectively. My own cat, Manny, is a good example. He suffered a crush injury to his entire underbelly that was too large to surgically close. A combination of a product that acted like temporary “fake skin” and a recovery onesie got him safely through two months of healing. People have improvised with T-shirts, socks, and baby clothes as well with great success.

So, the bottom line is that we do sometimes need to use the “cone of shame,” but it should be a thoughtful decision, not a reflex. Whenever possible, we should consider more comfortable alternatives that protect healing while preserving our pets’ comfort and quality of life. Good care of our pets doesn’t stop at a healed incision; it equally values their emotional well-being, protecting sutures without sacrificing their spirit.

Ad Locator Map

ANIMAL FRIENDS ad on page 8 / map A

ASGARD RAW PET FOOD ad on page 30 / map B

BARTMAN PLUMBING ad on page 25 / map C

BEAVER COUNTY HUMAN SOCIETY ad on page 11 / map D

CHARTIERS CUSTOM PET CREMATION ad on page 28 / map E

CHEYENNE VETERINARY WELLNESS & SURGICAL CENTER ad on page 15 / map F

COVENTRY STABLES ad on page 24/ map G

DENISE MARASCO HOWARD HANNA ad on page 15 / map H

GRIN RESCUE ad on page 15

HUMANE ANIMAL RESCUE ad on page 12-13 / map J

LARRY’S LAUNDROMUTT ad on page 15 / map K

PETS AFTER DARK ad on page 2 / map L

PORTRAITS OF ANIMALS ad on page 19

REBOUND PET REHABILITATION ad on page 3 / map M

SALTY PAWS DOGGIE ICE CREAM ad on page 25 / map N

UPSWING CANINE BEHAVIORAL SERVICES ad on page 14

DID YOU KNOW?

PetConnections has evolved into a full-service specialized pet media company, providing services for advertising in print and digital marketing platforms to help our sponsors grow their businesses.

Contact us for information on advertising or sponsoring! PetConnections is published quarterly as follows: March, June, September, and special Holiday issue in early December!

Our print copy distribution sites will be replenished every 6 weeks.

Our online presence has always been much greater than in print with now over a million impressions!

To subscribe to your own personal copy of PetConnections, please contact us.

BEHAVIOR & TRAINING

The dog you thought you got.

By Rachel McMichael CDBC, CBCC-KA

Somewhere along the way, dogs stopped being dogs and started becoming ideas. Symbols. Props. Characters in a story we may have written long before they ever entered our home. The perfect family dog. The bombproof dog that goes everywhere. The dog who loves everyone. The dog who never growls or barks. The dog who somehow comes preloaded with emotional stability and forgiveness no matter what in life we throw at them.

And when the real dog shows up, complete with fear, stress, instincts, boundaries, sensitivities, and an actual nervous system, people are shocked, as if they ordered one thing and got something totally defective. The truth is simple. They got a dog. A real one. That is the only kind that exists.

We have never lived in a time with more distorted expectations. For years television has edited behavior into quick fixes with celebrity trainers. The rise of social media polished it even further. And now AI has delivered the final blow by creating dogs that are not dogs at all. Perfectly calm. Perfectly tolerant. Perfectly compliant. Creatures that blink with human-shaped expressions and move with impossible neutrality.

“Dogs” capable of actions that evoke deep emotions in people. People watch these digital dogs and absorb them just enough to believe they are witnessing reality

instead of the truth; it’s a manufactured fantasy. But AI is not completely the root of the problem. It is only the newest block in a wall we have been building for years. A wall between what dogs actually are, and what humans think they should be. AI just made that wall taller and whole lot more convincing. Unfortunately, professionals like me are seeing the aftermath of this.

Real dogs often have fear periods. They can have genetic limitations. They have histories that follow them into adulthood. They have sensory systems that overload sometimes faster than we expect. They have teeth they would prefer not to use but absolutely will if pushed too far. They cannot regulate like fictional dogs because fictional dogs do not have nervous systems to regulate in the first place. And yet, many owners continue to hold their dogs to a standard that no living organism could ever truly meet. It’s simply not fair.

This is where behavior cases fall apart. People see reactivity as disobedience instead of dysregulation. They see resource guarding as greed instead of survival. They see shutdown as stubbornness instead of collapse. They see vocalizing and growling as attitude instead of communication. They see slowness as defiance instead of caution. They take normal canine behavior and interpret it through the lens of fantasy instead of biology.

Then they blame the dog.

Continued on next page

Every day, dogs pay the price for having emotions and instincts. They are corrected for being afraid. Scolded for uncertainty. Dragged into situations they often cannot handle. Expected to behave like the Disney-fied version of a dog that humans come to expect. And when the dog breaks under that pressure, people call it a behavior problem. What it usually is, is a mismatch between the dog’s emotional capacity and the human’s imagined version of who that dog was supposed to be.

There is no magic training method that can overwrite biology. No cue strong enough to erase fear. No number of repetitions that can turn an anxious animal into a happy, social butterfly. Behavior does not change because we demand it to. Behavior changes when the dog actually feels safe enough to reorganize its world.

The real work is quieter than people want to believe. It often looks boring (not like the face-offs of social media and television). Reading signals. Respecting thresholds. Building predictable routines. Offering decompression. Making space for a nervous system to settle. It is patient work. Intentional work. Sometimes inconvenient. It is always honest.

Dogs are not failing us. The expectations we continue to have of them are.

And as the holiday season rolls in, people love to talk about gifts and generosity and fresh starts. Here is what dogs actually need from us. Not a new collar. Not a training gadget. Not a promise that everything will be better if we just push harder. They need understanding. The gift of being seen for who they are rather than who we imagined or wanted them to be. The gift of boundaries respected. The gift of a home that honors their emotional truth instead of asking them to perform the impossible.

Give the gift of understanding to your dog this holiday season. Trade in the fantasy for truth. Learn their signals. Honor their limits. Build a life that actually meets the dog in front of you. What you receive in return is far better than perfection. It’s a dog who feels safe enough to actually grow. A dog who trusts you enough to try. A dog who mirrors back lessons you didn’t know you needed. Let others chase digital perfection. You can choose the sometimes imperfect, but always extraordinary dog right next to you!

PET RESOURCE DIRECTORY

ANIMAL EDUCATIONAL EXHIBITS

NORTH: GREATER PITTSBURGH AQUARIUM SOCIETY www.gpasi.org

THE PITTSBURGH ZOO & PPG Aquarium pittsburghzoo.org

THE NATIONAL AVIARY nationalaviary.org

ANIMAL-RELATED WRT, PHOTOGRAPHY & RETAIL

APRIL MINECH CUSTOM PORTRAITS /PET INSPIRED ART www.ladybugdelightz.etsy.com

NORTH:

KIM LENZ, BEHIND THE LENZ PHOTOGRAPHY

412-983-0981 facebook.com/ Behind-the-Lenz-127787624032093/

BUZZY PHOTOGRAPHY

412-371-5212 anita@buzzyphoto.com

SOUTH: KARA JONES PHOTOGRAPHY kjones.smugmug.com

PAWS ‘N CLAWS EYEWEAR PawsnClawsEyewear.com

ANIMAL RESCUE ORGANIZATIONS

NORTH: ANIMAL FRIENDS 412-847-7000 thinkingoutsidethecage.org

BEAVER COUNTY HUMANE SOCIETY 724-775-5801 beavercountyhumanesociety.org

FRANKIE’S FRIEND RESCUE 724-889-7011 frankies-friends.org

PENNSYLVANIA GREAT DANE RESCUE, 724-869-9185

HOPE HAVEN FARM SANCTUARY 412-366-1187 hopehavenfarm.org

SOUTH: ANIMAL CARE & WELFARE 412-244-1372 animalcareandwelfare.org

DROOPY’S BASSET RESCUE 888-9 GET DROOL droopysbassetrescue.com

WASHINGTON AREA HUMANE SOCIETY 724-222-7387 washingtonpashelter.org

ANIMALSAGAINST THE ODDS Rescue/Rehab aato.rescueme.org

SOUTH HILLS PET RESCUE

724-622-0434 southhillspetrescue.org

EAST:

HUMANE ANIMAL RESCUE 412-345-7300 animalrescue.org

HAR WILDLIFE CENTER 412-345-7300 animalrescue.org

SW PA PUGS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS 724-763-2790 swpapug.org

Greater Pittsburgh Area: SPAAR seniorpetandanimalrescue.org

GUARDIAN ANGELS PUG RESCUE 724-537-3466 facebook.com/ guardianangelspugrescue

HUMANE SOCIETY OF GREENE COUNTY 724-627-9988 greenepet.org

PEARL PARROT RESCUE pearlparrots.com

AQUARIUM SOCIETIES

Greater Pittsburgh Area: GREATER PITTSBURGH AQUARIUM Society gpasi.org

BIRD & SUPPLIES

NATURAL INSPIRATIONS PARROT CAGES naturalinspirationsparrotcages.com

DOG TRAINING

NORTH: AKIN Family Dog Training (Lilian Akin) 412-732-8091 akinfdt.net

GREATER PITTSBURGH AREA: HAPPY PETS TRAINING/CHRISTINE FLINT 412-373-9583 happypetstraining.com Success Just Clicks, successjustclicks.com

GREATER PGH AREA: UPSWING CANINE BEHAVIORAL SERVICES 724-213-2553 Upswingtpc.com

DOG TRAINING CLUBS

South:

DOGWORKS TRAINING CENTER AT THE CANINE CLUB 412-220-8100 thecanineclub.com

GOLDEN TRIANGLE OBEDIENCE TRAINING CLUB 412-653-6880 gtotc.com

KEYSTONE CANINE TRAINING 412-833-2211 | keystonecanine.com

XCEL CANINE TRAINING CENTER 412-833-2504 xcelcaninetraining.com

EQUINE BOARDING, LESSONS & TRAINING FACILITIES

NORTH: ROCKIN’ HORSE STABLES 724-601-4706 rockinhorsestables.com

SOUTH: COVENTRY EQUESTRIAN CENTER, 412-96-2130

MANON’S FARM 724-705-7912 | 724-621-0260

SYDMOR EQUESTRIAN CENTER 724-969-0510 sydmorstables.com

EQUINE FEED & SUPPLY

AGWAY - SOUTHERN STATES NORTH: Mount NeboAgway Sewickley, PA 412-364-4430

BeaverAgway Beaver, PA 724-775-0535

MarsAgway Mars PA 724-625-2340

SOUTH: Eighty FourAgway Eighty Four, PA 724-222-0600

EAST: LigonierAgway Ligonier, PA 724-238-6207

WEST: ImperialAgway, Imperial, PA 724-695-7388

EQUINE TACK STORES

NORTH: SHADY ACRES SADDLERY 412-963-9454 shadyacressaddlery.biz

SOUTH: LOWRY’S WESTERN STORE 724-228-1225 lowryswesternshop.com

EQUINE VETERINARIANS

Dr. Brian Burks, DVMFox Run Equine Center 724-727-3481 foxrunequine.com

HOLISTIC PET PRACTITIONERS

PET CHIROPRACTOR

NORTH: Dr. Doug Knueven, DVM, Beaver Animal Clinic 724-774-8047 beaveranimalclinic.com

GREATER PITTSBURGH: Dr. Michael Savko, DC, CCSP, CVCP 724-261-7915 drchirovet.com

EASE ANIMAL MASSAGE 412-447-8490 easeanimalmassage.com

WHOLESTIC EQUINE & PET SERVICES 205-492-1000

HOLISTIC PRACTITIONERS FOR GUARDIANS

EAST END: Judith Levy, Coaching/Energy

MODALITIES 412-726-2659 judithlevycoaching.com

HOLISTIC VETERINARIANS

DR DOUG KNUEVEN, DVM, Beaver Animal Clinic 724-774-8047 beaveranimalclinic.com

DR. QIANG LI VCA Castle Shannon 412-885-2500

PET BURIAL, MEMORIAL & CREMATION SERVICES

SOUTH: CHARTIERS CUSTOM PET CREMATION 412-220-7800 ccpc.ws

JEFFERSON MEMORIAL CEMETERY & FUNERAL HOME 412-655-4500 jeff ersonmemorial.biz

GREATER PITTSBURGH: THOUSAND HILLS PET CREMATORY 724-355-8296 thousandhillspetcrematory.com

SUNNY ACRES 412-292-6701 sunnyacres.6@gmail.com

PET GROOMING

NORTH: ALL ABOUT DOGS 724-925-1577 allaboutdogsgrooming. info

SOUTH: AUNT KIMMY’S PAW-LOR 724-299-3457

HAPPY TAILZ PET SPA 412-759-7620 Happytailzpetspa.com

LARRY’S LAUNDROMUTT 412-534-4052 Larryslaundromutt.com

EAST:

CAT AROUND TOWN CAT GROOMING 412-466-7877 (PURR) cataroundtown.com

GREATER PITTSBURGH AREA: Zoom N Groom (Sonya Patterson) 724-225-4827

WOOF GANG BAKERY & GROOMING (412) 815-8076 woofgangbakery.com

PET FRIENDLY BUSINESSES & ORGANIZATIONS

BACTRONIX 412-375-7886 bactronix.com

GOOD NATURE ORGANIC LAWN CARE 888-LAWNSAFER whygoodnature.com

GIANT EAGLE WATERFRONT 420 E Waterfront Dr, Homestead, PA 15120 412-464-6600

J & D WATERPROOFI NG jdwaterproofi ng.com

SALTY PAWS DOGGIE BAR & BAKERY 412-251-0294 saltypawspittsburgh.com

VILLAGE SHOPPES SCENERY HILL Elves Lair Christmas & Gifts,

JAN’S TEA SHOPPE, 2nd Street Coffee Roasters, Velvet Envelope, Westerwald Pottery, Two Old Crows sceneryhillpa.com

WAGS AND WINE wagsandwine.com

Greater Pittsburgh Area:

FRAGASSO FINANCIAL ADVISORS 412-227-3200 fragassoadvisors.com

J & D WATERPROOFING HOME IMPROVEMENT 724-746-8870 jdwaterproofi ng.com

MATT ARCH FOUNDATION connectarian.com

BARTMAN PLUMBING 724-258-9125

OXYMAGIC 412-781-4110 oxypgh.com

REDFORD PHOTOGRAPHY redfordphotography.com

SUSAN G. KOMEN PITTSBURGH 412-342-0500 komenpittsburgh.org

EAST

KENNY ROSS SUBARU 724-864-5100 kennyross-subaru.com Unique Home Solutions uniquehomesolutions.com

SOUTH: SOUTHPOINTE CHAMBER southpointe.net

PET-FRIENDLY LIVING

GREATER PITTSBURGH AREA: JUDY SMITH TEAM REALTOR –BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY 412-274- 7618 thepreferredrealty.com/ real-estate-agent/2242288/judysmithteam/details/

PINCH PROPERTY SERVICES 412-445-8550 PinchPropertyServices.com

EAST: THE GETAWAY AT GLEN

HIGHLAND FARM Glenhighlandgetaway.com

SOUTH: AMERICAN DESTINY Real Estate Services 412-983-2220 adr-usa.com

AMORE

877-716-6840 amoreapartments.com PET GROOMING SCHOOLS

NORTH: PA ACADEMY OF PET GROOMING 412-759-7620

PET REHABILITATION

REBOUND PET REHABILITATION 412-508-2285 Reboundpetrehabilitation.com

PET MINISTRIES

SOUTH: CHRIST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 412-277-1096 christumc.net

WESTMINSTER PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 412-835-6630 westminster-church.org

PET RESORTS - BOARDING, DAYCARE, GROOMING & TRAINING

CAMP BOW WOW CampBowWow.com

CAMP BOW WOW PITTSBURGH Southwest 710 Trumbull Dr., Pittsburgh, PA 15205 412-276-WAGS (9247)

CAMP BOW WOW Pittsburgh North 2327 Babcock Blvd, Pittsburgh, PA 15237 412-931-WAGS (9247)

CAMP BOW WOW HIGHLAND PARK 1325 Washington Blvd, Pittsburgh, PA 15206 412-362-PLAY (7529)

CAMP BOW WOW PITTSBURGH EAST 1610 McClure Rd, Pittsburgh, PA 15146 724-733-CAMP (2267)

NORTH: DOG STOP - NORTH 724-935-DOGS (3647) thedogstop.net

THE DOG STOP - SEWICKLEY 412-766-DOGS (3647) thedogstop.net

LUCKY PAWS PET RESORT 724-728-1484 luckypawsresort.com

SOUTH: FUZZY PAWS PET VILLA 724-746-3899 fuzzy-paws.com

HOUNDS TOWN USA 412-232-5285 houndtownusa.com

THE DOG STOP - BANKSVILLE RD. 412-343-1171 thedogstop.net

PAMPERED PAW RESORT 724-413-3135 pamperedpawresort.com

EAST: PITTSBURGH PET CONCIERGE 412-856-8505 petconcierge.org

DOGGONE AWESOME PET SERVICES, 724-212-0427 doggoneawesomepetservices.com

THE DOG STOP - MONROEVILLE 412-373-3355 thedogstop.net

THE DOG STOP - EAST END 412-361-0911 thedogstop.net

THE DOG STOP - EAST: STRIP District 412-315-7050 thedogstop.net

COUNTRY LANE PET HOTEL 412-824-7991 countrylanepethotel.com

WALKERS PET HOTAIL 724-327-7297 WalkersPetHoTail.com

WOOF GANG BAKERY & GROOMING 412-891-6418 email eastlibertypa@ woofgangbakery.com

PET RETAIL/SUPPLY

EAST: PETAGOGY 412-362-7387 petagogy.com

PETLAND EAST SIDE VILLAGE 412-363-PETS petlandvillageofeastside.com

Greater Pittsburgh Area: ASGARD RAW DOG AND CAT FOOD 412-408-3355 asgard-raw.com

BASKETS OF NATURE 724-831-9437 basketsofnature.com

DIG IT COLLARS dig-it-store.com

TRIXIE’S DOG FASHIONS trixiesdogfashions.com

O2 DERM PET TOPICAL GEL O2Dermpet.com

KITTYCAT PARKOUR 412-612-5016

PET SITTERS

NORTH:

FURRY FAMILY PET SITTING 412-999-9524 furryfamilypetsitting.com

WESTERN PA NO BOARDERS PET AND ANIMAL CARE Home & Farm Sitting 724-219-7801 noboarders-petcare.com

SOUTH: YOUR CRITTER SITTERS (Raylene Hoover) 724-448-7330 yourcrittersitters.com

EAST: PITTSBURGH PET CONCIERGE 412-856-8505 petconcierge.org

VETERINARY HOSPICE & MOBILE SERVICES

Greater Pittsburgh Area: NANCY A. RUFFI NG, DVM 412-801-1071 |entlejourneyvet.com

VETERINARY PHARMACIES

Greater Pittsburgh Area: MURRAY AVENUE APOTHECARY 412-421-4996 MAApgh.com

VETERINARY HOSPITALS

NORTH: BEAVER ANIMAL CLINIC 724-774-8047 beaveranimalclinic.com

FRANKIE FRIENDS VETERINARY SERVICES 724-889-7011 frankies-friends.org/low-costveterinaryservices 724-889-7011

VCA NORTHVIEW ANIMAL HOSPITAL 412-364-5353 vcanorthview.com

SOUTH: CHEYENNE VETERINARY WELLNESS & SURGICAL CENTER 412-884-3162 cheyennevets.com

FIX UR CAT (724) 416-3265 fi xurcat.org

VETERINARY SPECIALTY & EMERGENCY SERVICES NORTH/SOUTH/EAST:

PITTSBURGH VETERINARY SPECIALTY AND EMERGENCY CENTER, INC. 412-366-3400 724-809-2000 pvs-ec.com

BLUE PEARL PET HOSPITAL NORTH 412-366-3400

BLUEPEARL PET HOSPITAL SOUTH 724-366-3400

BLUEPEARL PET HOSPITAL EAST 412-810-6732

GREATER PITTSBURGH AREA: PETS AFTER DARK mypetafterdark.com 855-AFTRDRK (238-7375)

KITTY KORNER

By Bernadette Kazmarski

We've come a long way in making litterboxes appropriate not only for cats in general but meeting the needs of our own cats in particular. Another facet of this discussion of cats and humans and litterboxes hasn't had as much attention: accessibility for the human. Most of us have found there are very few resources other than anecdotal examples and product descriptions, both short on cat behavior, for what can be a tricky situation.

CATS AND HUMANS AND LITTERBOXES

A cat and her litterbox are not to be messed with. Time was when we'd get any little plastic bin, shove it wherever it worked for us, fill it with the cheapest stuff we could find, maybe scoop it once a week. Cats were famous for peeing in corners and behind the couch. We didn't connect our actions with theirs before a lot of senseless punitive behavior physically and emotionally hurt a lot of cats.

In time cat behavioral studies determined their needs and we learned that our actions and our cats' actions were not

only related, but causative. All elements about each individual cat's litterbox are critical, part of their biological response to their surroundings. I'm sure they were glad when we finally figured things out.

HUMAN LITTERBOX ACCESSIBILITY

Of course, that people who love and live with cats have mobility limitations has been present all along and many people have adapted on their own in a way that suits both. But because cats have demonstrated their reaction when their litterbox needs are not met we need to work closely with both parties to find a solution, including constraints on available budget, time and physical space, and share these ideas so that on adoption or change in ability humans and cats are able to adapt to the changes with easily accessible information.

The human-animal bond is so important to an animal-lover's well-being, and a beloved kitty provides love and companionship in a population that's often marginalized. We want anyone who wants to live with a cat to be able to adopt one including people who have limited mobility that makes litterbox tending difficult. We also want cats who live with a person whose physical ability may change due to age or injury to be able to stay with their person.

TEMPORARY LIMITATIONS

Consider just a temporary need such as limitations after surgery. I live in a small two-story house with two rather steep and narrow staircases and I've fostered cats alongside my own feline family for decades, which adds up to a lot of cats and a lot of litterboxes in different places around the house and a lot of litter being moved around. Daily scooping and weekly cleaning are significant. When I had my hip replaced I wasn't permitted to bend beyond 90 degrees for at least six weeks, and had to be careful with bending and lifting for my first year. But all the litterboxes were on the floor, some of them tucked underneath tables or steps that took a bend and a twist to get to them and pull them out.

Friends offered to help me but I managed to maneuver the boxes and scoop them with the help of a few long-handled garden tools. This was fun to puzzle out but I was glad it was temporary.

Still, I began considering my options should I need to have the

other hip replaced or my arthritis continued its slow increase. I've seen people do this successfully and their cats actually think the new setup is fun, and talked to older and disabled friends with cats about what they'd done.

A FEW EXAMPLES

For instance, most cats feel secure with their box in a quiet, even hidden space, but where a human with limitations can't get to. A friend who moved to an apartment in a retirement community used a closet with the door slightly open that her kitty loved to go into. My friend could fully open the door and slide the boxes out with a broom, then use a long-handled scoop to clean them. She had her litter delivered, an assistant put the litter in her apartment so she never had to lift the full bag.

Another friend who couldn't bend forward put a litterbox on an end table that's high enough for the human to scoop standing upright,with a step stool next to it that her kitty can walk up and walk around the box to get in. It's in her bedroom, quiet with little traffic.

Another friend who I helped with a rescued cat and kittens had severe limitations with walking and couldn't bend or lift weight. She had always used lightweight litter and decided years ago to get self-cleaning litterboxes which worked fine for her resident cats, and those kittens adapted to a regular litterbox when adopted.

LET'S MAKE SOLUTIONS ACCESSIBLE

The market has responded with self-cleaning litterboxes and specially fitted cabinets where the box is raised or where the box is on floor level but can be raised to a comfortable height to clean, make caring for cats far easier for those who have limitations.

But cost, space and living arrangements can be an issue especially for those on fixed incomes or living situations where the elderly and disabled are more likely than the general population to be. Not only are the units more expensive individually, but even one cat should have more than one box, and accommodating more than one cat can put that choice out of reach.

We should continue this conversation and make practical and behaviorally-sound ideas available for when a cat lover needs the assistance.

CAT RESOURCE DIRECTORY

2025 Homeless Cat Management Team Clinic Schedule Through December: FREE CLINICS (ferals only)

Our clinic is located at 207 Allegheny Street, Tarentum, PA 15084. All appointments include surgery, pain medicine, rabies vaccine and flea treatment.

CLINIC REGISTRATION BY PHONE: Call 412-321-4060 and leave a message. Please include your name and phone number in your message. Someone will return your call and complete your pre-registration.

HCMT is all volunteer and this may take some time. Clinics fill up quickly and it’s best to call at least two weeks in advance of the clinic you want to attend.

BY EMAIL: Email cathomeless@gmail.com with your name, number of spots you need and which date you are registering for. You will receive a confirmation email ONLY if you are registered.

NOTE: Dates may be added and are subject to change. Dates are set for the clinics, but at publication it’s not yet determined which clinics are Free or Fast Track. Check www.homelesscat.org/clinic-info for the most up to date information.

Low-cost Spay and Neuter and Other Veterinary Resources

This information is provided for reference only and subject to change without notice. Please contact the organization or agency before using their services.

TNR And Low-Cost Spay/

Neuter Pittsburgh Area

Homeless Cat Management Team

207 Allegheny St, PO Box 100203, Tarentum, PA 15084 (412) 321-4060 homelesscat.org/ Pre-registration is always required, no walk-ins. Please see website for registration instructions. 2025 July to December Clinics NOTE: dates may be added and are subject to change. No Charge: Ferals Only July 19 – Sponsored by a successful 2025 Spaghetti Dinner

August 23 – In memory of Commissioner Rufus, Callie, Cinnamon, Corky and their Mumma

September 13 – In memory of Minnie and Fuzzy

October 11 – Sponsored by Janice Pechan and Marilyn Chapla

November 8 – 1⁄2 sponsored by The Law Office of N Leah Fink, 1⁄2 open for sponsorship

December 13 – Sponsored by Paws Across Pittsburgh FAST TRACK: PETS & FERALS

July 5, August 9, August 30

September 27, October 25

November 22, December 27

Pricing as of January 2025: Feral Package: $60

Male Neuter, Rabies & Flea Treatment: $60

Female Spay, Rabies & Flea Treatment: $75

Combo FIV/FeLV Test: $30 FVRCP Distemper Vaccine: $12 FeLV Vaccine: $12

De-worming Treatment: $12

Microchip: $30

More dates may be announced and dates are subject to change. Check www.homelesscat.org/clinicinfo for the most up to date information.

City of Pittsburgh Free Spay and Neuter for City Residents

This program is temporarily paused. Visit website for more information: pittsburghpa.gov/ publicsafety/spay-neuter

Low-Cost Spay/Neuter Programs at Shelters in Allegheny and surrounding counties

Action for Animals

Humane Society 386 Route 217, Latrobe, Pennsylvania 15650 afashelter.org/low-costspayneuter/ Call the shelter at 724-539-2544 to schedule an appointment. Effective 8/1/22 prices are as follows: Neuter Services for a Male Cat: $60

Spay Services for a Female Cat: $80 ($30 additional fee if pregnant)

Spay/Neuter Services for Dogs: price per weight (call 724-539- 2544 for rates)

Animal Friends thinkingoutsidethecage.org/ pet-care/spay-neuter/ Cats: Female or Male $84

Includes brief exam, injectable pain medication and an e-collar – vaccines are an additional fee.

Feral/Outdoor Package | $75 Includes brief exam, injectable pain medication, rabies, FVRCP, ear tip and fl ea treatment. Cats must be feral and in a humane trap to receive this service. Trap rental is available through scheduling spay/ neuter.

Limited dog appointments are available.

Beaver County Humane Society 3394 Brodhead Road, Center Township, PA 15001, 724-775-5801

beavercountyhumanesociety. org/tnr-and-owned-catsurgeryprices/ Owned Cat: Three packages range from $65.00 to $150.00, all include Surgery and 1yr Rabies Vaccination (must be 3 lbs. and 12 weeks of age), initial FVRCP vaccination, more with higher priced packages Feral Cat: Three packages range from $50.00 to $115.00, all include Surgery and 1yr Rabies Vaccination, more with higher priced packages, eartip is mandatory.

Butler County Humane Society 1015 Evans City Road, Renfrew, PA 16053 724-789-1150

butlercountyhs.org/clinic/ Free spay/neuter, *some specifi cations and limitations apply*, visit website for more information and application

Clarion Paws (Serves Clarion, Forest and Jefferson County)

Current Location: 11348 Route 322, Shippenville, PA clarionpaws.org/spay-andneuter. html Monthly clinics listed on website, submit an application Pets: $75 surgery, rabies, flea/mite treatment, pain medication, extra services available. TNR: email at clarionpawsinfo@ gmail.com

Humane Animal Rescue humaneanimalrescue.org/ veterinary-care/spay-andneuterservices/ North Shore and East End facilities: 412-345-7300

Feline Spay/Neuter: $100

Includes rabies, FVRCP and microchip TNR: $63

Includes rabies, FVRCP, Advantage Multi and ear-tip. Cats must be feral and in a humane trap to receive this service.

Humane Society of Westmoreland County 139 Humane Society Rd, PO Box 1552 Greensburg, PA 15601 (724) 837-3779 westmorelandhumanesociety. com/vet-services/

Indiana County

Humane Society 191 Airport Road, Indiana, PA 15701 (724) 465-7387 incohumanesociety.com/ Spay-neuter voucher program provides vouchers to help off set the total cost of surgery for cats and dogs. Visit website for application.

Washington Area

Humane Society 1527 Route 136, Eighty Four, PA 15330 washingtonpashelter.org/ Owned Cats: $45 includes basic exam, spay or neuter, pain medication, rabies 1 year vaccine, nail trim, e-collar, ear mite treatment if needed. Feral Cats: $45 includes basic exam, ear tip, spay or neuter, pain medication, rabies vaccine, nail trim, flea medication, ear mite treatment if needed. Extra services available.

Low-Cost Spay/Neuter and Veterinary Clinics

These are independent clinics that off er services on site during regular business hours. •

Alleycat Spay & Neuter Clinic

15549 State Route 170, Suite 10, East Liverpool, OH 43920 330-892-8985

https://alleycatvet.com/ spayneuter-services/ Owned or feral: Spay $60.00, Neuter $50.00

Owned cats by appointment Feral drop-off without appointment Additional services available, dog surgeries also available.

Catnip Acres 1159 Morris St, Waynesburg, PA 15370

https://catnip-acres.com/clinic Spay packages $65-$90, neuter $50-$75, owned, stray, feral All packages include rabies, distemper vaccines, fl ea and earmite treatments, $5 off with an eartip. Other services and dog surgery services also available.

North Hills Spay/Neuter Clinic and Fixin’ Wagon (mobile unit) 3967 William Flinn Hwy, Allison Park, PA 412-213-7353

Open Monday-Friday. NO WALK-INS: If you have trapped a cat that you would like to bring in, you must call our clinic ahead of time for approval to be seen the same day. Pet/TNR Spay $56, Neuter $37, visit website for details and scheduling Also offers low cost vaccinations and basic medical treatments

https://spayaz.com/locations/ pittsburgh-north-hills/

Fixin’ Wagon (mobile unit)

4284 William Flinn Hwy, Suite 103, Allison Park, PA 15101 724-201-9413

Our mobile unit travels within a 2 hour radius of Pittsburgh, PA. We also host clinics at our office in Allison Park, PA.

Spay/Neuter package $90, includes Rabies 1 year, 1st FVRCP booster, flea treatment, ear mite treatment, and a nail trim. Feral options are available at no charge ONLY for cats brought in humane traps.*

To find out when we’re going to be in your area, click on a county to find available dates and scheduling information.

https://www.fixnwagn.com/ wheresthewagn

https://www.facebook.com/ fixnwagn

Fix ‘Ur Cat Spay & Neuter Clinic

(Recently moved to Washington PA)

222 Hall Avenue, Washington, PA 15301 Call (724) 416-3265 for an appointment.

Female $70, male $60, Ferals: $65, rabies and pain medication included. Download and complete application, mail in for appointment. Other services and wellness clinic available.

Visit: furcat.org/spay-and-neuter/

Frankie’s Friends

740 5th Avenue, New Kensington, PA 15068 (724) 889-7011 clinic@frankies-friends.org

Spay/neuter for pet/feral cats

Spay-$75, Neuter-$65 includes rabies, ear mite and flea treatment, pain medication, antibiotic.

Feral cat spay/neuter walk-ins No appointment needed, one per person, cat must be in a trap. Monday-Wednesday Drop-off 9:30-10:00a.m.

Spay-$75, Neuter-$65 Includes rabies, flea treatment, ear mites if necessary.

Other services and dog services also available.

https://www.frankies-friends. org/veterinary-clinic

North Hills Spay/Neuter Clinic 3967 William Flinn Hwy, Allison Park, PA 412-213-7353

Open Monday-Friday. NO WALKINS: If you have trapped a cat that you would like to bring in, you must call our clinic ahead of time for approval to be seen the same day.

Pet/TNR Spay $56, Neuter $37, visit website for details and scheduling

Also offers low cost vaccinations and basic medical treatments

https://spayaz.com/locations/ pittsburgh-north-hills/

Penn Hills Spay / Neuter Clinic

1644 Frankstown Rd. Pittsburgh, PA 15235, 412-244-1202

Open Monday-Friday. No longer offering walk-in services for ferals

Pet/TNR: Spay $56, Neuter $37, visit website for details and scheduling.

Also offers low cost vaccinations and basic medical treatments. Visit: spayaz.com/locations/ pittsburgh-penn-hills-pa/

Spay It Forward 533 Rugh St. Greensburg, PA 15601

Visit: spayitforwardclinic.com/ vet-services

Spay $105, Neuter $90

Includes surgery, pain medication, rabies & FVRCP vaccination, flea & ear mite treatment as needed. Additional services available.

Low-Cost Spay/Neuter and TNR Assistance Organizations in Allegheny and surrounding counties

These are organizations that do not have clinic services onsite but organize mobile clinics or transport to clinics.

Cat Crusaders

Alle-Kiski Valley TNR support, rescue/adoption

“Cat Crusaders” on Facebook. Visit we bsite for details and scheduling: facebook.com/ groups/721970658170977

Community Cat Network

Butler County Visit: facebook.com/ CommunityCatNetwork/ Mobile clinics, TNR support and rescue/adoption

Fixin’ Fayette

Transporting cats to Fix ‘Ur Cat for spay/neuter surgery 724-600-9570

“Fixin’ Fayette” on Facebook Visit: facebook.com/ groups/404758481158215/

Fluffy Jean Fund for Felines (Washington PA)

Packages at $65 and $85 female or male. Call Faith for available dates and appointments. (724) 941-5683 press 1

E-Mail: faith.b2@verizon.net Visit: fluffyjeanfund.weebly.com/

Operation Spay / Neuter

Butler, PA (for Butler County residents only).

Visit: operationspayneuter.com/ (724) 287-SPAY (7729)

E-mail: operationspayneuter@ gmail.com

Income-based spays and neuters for dogs and cats at participating veterinarians and mobile spay/ neuter unit.

Orphans of the Storm PO Box 838, 11878

Route 85 East Kittanning, PA (724) 548-4520

Visit: orphansofthestorm-pa.org/ affordable-spay-programs Monthly clinic dates, working with local veterinarians. Spay/neuter for pet/feral cats: Neuter $65, Spay $75. Includes rabies, ear mite, flea treatment, pain medication, and antibiotic. Other services and dog services also available.

Pet Search

P.O. Box 1653 Washington, PA 15301

Visit: petsearchpa.org/ Call (724) 228-7335 for clinic information

SNIPP: Spay and Neuter Indiana PA Pets

Westmoreland/Indiana Counties, Alle-Kiski Valley

Low cost clinics, check Facebook “Snipp Indianapa” for dates and availability.

Visit: facebook.com/profile. php?id=61550868595306

Stray Solutions Animal Rescue Serving Butler County (724) 290-4933

Sunshine Farm Cat Rescue 125 Crolls Mill Rd., Slippery Rock, PA 16057 (724) 944-9822

Visit: sunshinefarmcatrescue.org/ Works with local shelters’ veterinarians to provide spay/neuter services.

Find Local Low-Cost Spay, Neuter and Veterinary Care on the Internet

Searchable indexes by state or region

Alley Cat Rescue https://www.saveacat.org/ statelow-cost-spayneuter.html

Alley Cat Allies Visit: alleycat.org/resourcespage/low-cost-veterinarycare-directory/ ASPCA/PetSmart Charities Visit: petsmartcharities.org/ adopt-apet/ adoption-centers/locator

North Shore Animal League Visit: animalleague.org/ getinvolved/ spay-usa/

Spay USA Visit: spayusa.org/search.php United Spay Alliance Visit: www.unitedspayalliance. org/state-local/program-locatormap/

Emergency Veterinary Care 24/7

Avets Specialty & Emergency Trauma Center 2674 Monroeville Blvd, Monroeville, PA 15146 (412) 373-4200

Visit: avets.com/

Butler Veterinary Associates Inc. and Emergency Center 1761 North Main Street Ext, Butler, PA 16001 (724) 283-2345

Visit: butlervet.com/

Cheat Lake Animal Hospital

286 Fairchance Road, Morgantown, WV 26508 (304) 594-1124 https://www.cheatlakevets.com/

MedVet Pittsburgh

Emergency Veterinary & Specialty Care 2810 Washington Rd., McMurray, PA 15317 (724) 717-2273

Visit: medvet.com/location/ pittsburgh/

BluePearl

Veterinary Hospital North Hills 807 Camp Horne Rd, Pittsburgh, PA 15237 (412) 366-3400

Visit: bluepearlvet.com/hospital/ pittsburgh-north-pa/ Washington PA 1535 Washington Rd. Washington, PA 15301 (724) 809-2000

Visit: bluepearlvet.com/hospital/ washington-pa/

Veterinary Emergency Group/VEG Pittsburgh East End 6244 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15206 (412) 690-0511

Visit: veterinaryemergencygroup. com/locations/pittsburgh-pa/

Daytime and After Hours

Urgent Veterinary Care

• • • •

Animal Urgent Care Center 4201 Wood St #1 Wheeling, WV 26003 (304) 233-0002

Check website for hours. Visit: animalurgentcarecenter.net/

Geary Veterinary Services

308 Bessemer Rd. Suite 300, Mount Pleasant, PA, 15666 (724) 542-4954

Check website for hours. Visit: gearyveterinaryservices. com/

Kalyani Indiana Emergency Veterinary Hospital 1540 Indian Springs Road, Building B, Indiana, PA 15701 (724) 471-2575

Check website for hours. https://kalyaniindianaemergencyvet. com/

Rivers Veterinary Urgent Care 560 McNeilly Rd, Pittsburgh PA 15226 (412) 998-9030 Monday-Saturday 9:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. Visit: riversvet.com/

Safe Haven Veterinary Hospital Specialty and Urgent Care 13085 Perry Hwy, Wexford, PA 15090 (724) 591-8393

Urgent Care: Mon - Fri 8am to 6pm Visit: safehavenpethospital.com/ urgent-care/

UrgentVet

Non-life threatening conditions after hours care

100 Siena Drive

Upper Saint Clair, PA 15241 484-866-9100

After hours 365 days https://urgentvet.com/

Five ways to keep your pets safe from winter cold

You might think dogs and cats are immune from winter, because of their nice, warm coats and thick paw pads. Actually, pets can suffer from frostbite, hypothermia and other winter dangers.

Fortunately, our pets have a secret weapon to protect them, and it’s not fur. The secret weapon is you.

As a pet owner, you have the power to make wise decisions for your precious four-legged family members. That’s why we put together this list of tips on how you can keep your pets safe this winter.

Don’t leave your pets out in the cold for extended periods of time. A short jaunt outside for them to do their business is generally fine, but bring them inside if they start to shiver or if you see redness in their ears or tails. Once inside, help get ice out from between their toes.

Keep pets on leashes so they don’t get confused and lost – which is very easy in the snow. Be sure your dogs and cats are wearing identification tags, and don’t forget to have them microchipped. Some dog owners buy reflective dog collars and flashing clip-on lights like bicycle riders use. Also, consider a GPS pet tracker. This allows you to pinpoint the location of your dogs or cats in real time if they get lost.

1 2 3 4 5

Today, I do pilates twice a week, and as an aged woman, I am still riding. lifting water buckets my whole life has wreaked havoc on my body! But hips, I have a posture aid when I sit to teach, and I adjust my back and point straight ahead when I walk, my shoulders lifted, and my head held Only when we have a correct posture can our arms and legs correctly move in harmony with the horse. Riding teachers cannot ﬁx the aspiring It is up to you!

Don’t forget the indoor dangers of winter. If your pets spend more time in the garage or basement to get out of the cold, make sure you clear those spaces of toxic rat poison and antifreeze (including antifreeze that leaks onto the garage floor.) Also, cats love to curl up inside a warm auto engine, which can go badly the next time a human fires up the car.

and international

People and pets spend more time indoors during winter, and this means all of us are likely to put on a few pounds. Pet obesity is actually a widespread problem. So monitor your pets’ food intake and treats carefully during winter. Also, consider taking them to an indoor dog park or doggie daycare to get them exercising, even in colder months.

for

Do you spread de-icer on your driveway or sidewalks? If so, find one that’s pet-friendly. Pets tend to lick de-icer off their paws, which means they can consume toxins or even too much salt.

and

in a

Don’t be afraid to get a dog coat or sweater, especially for a shorthaired dog. This can be a functional way of keeping your pet warm.

Be aware of your family veterinarian’s locations and hours, in case pet does suffer from a winter emergency. Also, make sure you’re aware of the nearest 24-hour emergency animal hospital.

Remember to have fun in the winter with you pets! A nice little romp in the snow can be a pleasure, as long as you keep safety in mind.

The author at the beginning of her dressage journey, all rounded in the back. I changed it and learned how to sit up when I ride!

Learn how to ride & train with clarity. All horses & riders benefit utilizing simplified gymnastic training or ‘dressage’.

Visit our Facebook page “Home School Your Horse” for training tips.

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Custom Pet

Using your photos I create a lasting gift for yourself or a loved one.

Bernadette E. Kazmarski, artist

President

Centered Riding for many years

clinician Peggy Brown came

Coventry Equestrian Center twice for clinics

riding position

biomechanics. She is well known

riding

bone suit. As Sally Swift says, “you ride with your bones and feel with your muscles. “ These clinics were sponsored by Three Rivers Equestrian Association

Swift’s book, Centered Riding, has great visuals for riding position. Raise that sternum...

That Perfect Basic Dressage Photo

By Kristin Hermann

I’ll never forget, at a horse show, one of the local riders said to me, “It’s so silly that we all want the same picture over and over again.” I don’t think I’ll ever forget it. So what is that perfect Training Level picture we want over and over again?

The Rider

First, we always want to see a rider in the correct riding position. This includes the vertical alignment of the rider’s ankle under the hip, and head in the middle of the horse, the correct length of stirrup, and a straight line from the elbow to the bit. Of course, there are small modifiers such as the toes should point ahead and not out, a natural curve in the lower back to absorb the motion of the horse’s back, the head over the shoulders, and the thumbs up or not in a piano hand position… ( this list could be very long). With the correct position, the rider better enables the horse to move “unconstrained” from the legs to the rider’s hands.

Tracking up with the horse’s top line reaching into the contact

The ideal picture of a horse working at basic dressage would be a horse stepping through, meaning taking a full length of stride, or, as it is better known, tracking up. I have

Beautiful picture of a horse taking a full stride showing the stepping under the rider’s seat and tracking up into the prints the front legs leave. Thus, using its full range of motion as the horse flexes at the poll and accepts contact with the rider’s straight line elbow to bit connection. (Toes could be pointing forward.)

always asked what “through” meant, and it means the horse is through the rider’s seat or through itself, stepping under the horse’s body. This full stride from behind reverberates over the horse’s back and into the horse’s neck, encouraging the neck to stretch down and into the contact. Basic dressage training encourages the horse to move unconstrained from behind to the bit through the rider. Achieving this is not as easy, as many riders and their positions interfere with how the horse moves.

The dressage tests at Training Level actually use the word “unconstrained.” And not only does the rider’s position have a lot to do with this, but so does a correctly fitting saddle. But this article is about the end result of a picture; there are many other resources on correct saddle fitting.

What we are doing with lower-level dressage is trying to recreate the natural movement of a horse with a rider sitting in the middle of its back.

Connection over the back to the bit

How the horse reaches for the contact is the next important aspect of the photo. Is the neck crunched in and tight, is the mouth all wrinkly and tense, or open? Is the horse working over its back and through the rider’s seat to the contact? We want the horse to reach into the bit and flex at the poll to get their nose on the vertical and do what we call ‘accept contact’ from a reaching hind end.

Photos at the canter are challenging. You want to get the horse stepping under and up to the bit and not on the down beat. The rider is in a Micklem bridle so it has a flash type noseband.

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REMEMBERING Sally

My Sally passed just after Veteran’s Day at about 14 years old. She brought an overabundance of sweetness even though she had had a rough beginning. So traumatized that she didn’t bark or kiss. Still, she loved people and just wanted to be touched. I was so lucky to have her here for seven years. My girl. - Carol Harmatz