Petsburgh Magazine Spring 2022

BREAKING MEWS: WELCOMING CHANGE Page 4

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SPRING 2022

Magazine

COMBATING PET FOOD SHORTAGES Page 11

SNIFFING MATS ARE FOR EVERYONE Page 18

THINKING OUTSIDE THE CAGE

Volume 4, No. 1

A Shared Love and Lasting Legacy Page 26

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ABOUT US

MISSION STATEMENT

For more than 75 years, Animal Friends has continually set – and raised – the bar for humane programming in the Pittsburgh region. Our 75-acre campus serves as a center of compassion and hope for thousands of homeless pets annually. Our full-service companion animal resource community serves our region by providing tens of thousands of affordable services, and impacting more than 100,000 lives through humane education, pet behavior classes, pet therapy and our pet food bank each year. Animal Friends is proud to continue to save lives … simply put, because it’s what we do.

To rescue, rehabilitate and rehome animals in crisis, ensure healthy pets through education, advocacy and affordable services, and inspire a community where the animal-human bond is celebrated and nurtured.

VISIT US ONLINE ThinkingOutsideTheCage.org

VISION STATEMENT A humane and compassionate future for every animal friend.

FOLLOW US

This magazine is not responsible for the conduct, health, temperament or availability of the animals listed. The publisher retains the right to refuse any advertising. COPYING OR REPRODUCING ANY OR ALL OF THIS PUBLICATION IS URGED AND APPRECIATED, WITH THE EXCEPTION OF THE USE OF THE NAME “PETSBURGH MAGAZINE,” WHICH IS PROTECTED AND IS PROHIBITED IN ANY OTHER FORM, OR BY ANY OTHER MEANS.

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Petsburgh Magazine

IN THIS ISSUE

Editor-in-Chief:

Monique Serbu

Adoptable Dogs

Managing Editor:

Cody Hoellerman Erica Cebzanov

Event Calendar

Ask the Behavior Team

Photography:

Animal Friends University

Anne Burrows, Suzanne Denk, Cody Hoellerman, Shanleigh Knittel, Abby McNatt, Angela Pulice, Monique Serbu, Natalie Shearer, Debbie Vidurich and Katlyn Weiser

President & CEO:

Caryl Gates Gluck Resource Center T-F: 11 a.m.-7 p.m. | S & S: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Howard Ash Animal Wellness Center T-F: 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

Spotlight: Mobile Resource Center Humane Investigations

562 Camp Horne Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15237 Main Number: 412.847.7000

Kids’ Corner ANIMAL FRIENDS DIRECTORY Adoption 412.847.7002 | AdoptionInfo@ThinkingOutsideTheCage.org Admissions 412.847.7078 | AdmissionsInfo@ThinkingOutsideTheCage.org Advertising, Event Sponsorships, Donations and Mailing List Changes/Additions 412.847.7051 | Development@ThinkingOutsideTheCage.org Behavior Helpline 412.847.7059 | Behavior@ThinkingOutsideTheCage.org Community Programs and Classes 412.847.7035 | AFU@ThinkingOutsideTheCage.org

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Pet Retention

Fall in love with General!

Adoptable Rabbits

20

Enrichment

2124 25 26 28 29 30

Adoptable Cats

Kathleen Beaver

ThinkingOutsideTheCage.org

Clinic Services

15 18 19

Writers:

Maddie Aicher, Kathleen Beaver, Anne Burrows, Suzanne Denk, Ann Ensminger, Julie Galli, Erin Graham, Cody Hoellerman, Shanleigh Knittel, Krista Koontz, Sarah McKean, Liz Moser, Veronica Rigatti, Dr. Jessica Serbin, Katlyn Weiser and Corrie Whittemore

Design:

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Associate Editor:

Kay Braun at Direct Axis

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Breaking Mews

Magazine

AFU Trainer Spotlight Volunteer Highlight

Supporter Spotlight

32

Humane Legislation

Happy Tails

Pa ge 8

Humane Investigations 412.847.7066 Events 412.847.7073 | SpecialEvents@ThinkingOutsideTheCage.org Low-Cost Spay/Neuter Program 412.847.7004 | ClinicServices@ThinkingOutsideTheCage.org Volunteering 412.847.7053 | Volunteering@ThinkingOutsideTheCage.org

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BREAKING MEWS

Welcoming Change

By Kathleen Beaver, President & CEO 2021 was yet another year that was anything but normal. And that’s ok. It has urged us to chart a new course, look at things differently, rethink how we solve community challenges and make Animal Friends an even better place to work and save lives.

A few of the successes in 2021 that are worthy of celebration include: • Despite “The Great Resignation,” we added a number of exceptionally talented, passionate and professional individuals to our Animal Friends team.

• Our core programs have expanded and evolved to better support those in our community struggling most thanks to an abundance of creativity and courage to look beyond the way “we have always done it.”

• We welcomed new community partnerships and collaborations – some in our own backyard and others from across the country.

• We cheered the return of an inperson Black Tie & Tails gala and our New Year’s Rescue that brought us closer to our community, our animals and each other.

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Petsburgh Magazine

• And, we are just beginning to see the benefits of an upgraded, capacity-building technology infrastructure that will allow incredible growth, expansion and creative problem solving.

We have big plans for 2022, too.

Of course, the central focus will be our lifesaving programs that offer a second, and even third, chance to animals who are homeless or forgotten within our communities.

However, you will also see an expansion of our pet retention programs that help to keep animals in their homes through affordable services and resources.

2021 was yet “ another year that was anything but

normal. And that’s ok.

It has urged us to chart a new course, look at things differently, rethink how we solve community challenges and make Animal Friends an even better place to work and save lives.”

Our Humane Investigations program will be growing to enable us to have a greater resource-based presence in the community while also ensuring our capacity to step in to remove animals who are in harm’s way and fight for the justice they deserve.

2022 will see the return of our Humane Education programming and the first full year of our new, comprehensive Animal Friends for Veterans program. And, it’s hard to believe that our Caryl Gates Gluck Resource Center is already 15 years old.

This year we will be rethinking some of our spaces, reconsidering how they are being used, and making necessary changes and upgrades along the way.

A great example is our new Welcome Center. After two years of seemingly constant change and unknown, the value

BREAKING MEWS

“

We are now, more than ever, so grateful to welcome our community of adopters, volunteers and staff onto our campus. We want every visitor to receive a warm welcome that echoes our excitement of their presence. ”

of connection has become a treasured commodity at Animal Friends. We are now, more than ever, so grateful to welcome our community of adopters, volunteers and staff onto our campus. We want every visitor to receive a warm welcome that echoes our excitement of their presence. This sentiment led us to rethink the first impression visitors were receiving in our lobby and transform our former retail space into a center of welcoming first impressions. In early February, we proudly opened our new Loevner Family Welcome Center, inside the Caryl Gates Gluck Resource Center. The multi-

use, flexible space provides guests with immediate connection to our volunteer department, information about our lifesaving work and program opportunities, a small retail space and a new enclosure where one lucky feline resident will reside.

Our goal – always a warm welcome.

served many years as our Board Chair and helped to guide the organization through a period of significant growth and success.

We are so grateful to Marleen for her compassionate leadership, the countless lives she affected and, of course, her kindness and friendship.

Change can be exciting, but it can also be bittersweet. After 30 years of service to Animal Friends, Board of Directors member Marleen Ashton has moved to emeritus status. As you will read below, Marleen

And, sadly, we mourn the recent passing of Board Member Jeff Gleason. A dedicated volunteer, avid dog walker and talented professional, Jeff had found his place providing leadership and thoughtful guidance to Animal Friends. We will all miss his gentle spirit and tireless commitment – two and four-footed alike.

Thank you for all the change you have helped us weather and welcome.

With gratitude,

30 Years of Service and a Lifetime of Achievement

By Sarah McKean, Animal Friends’ Board Chair Marleen Ashton has served Animal Friends and the Board of Directors since 1992. Under her leadership as Chair of the Board of Directors, Animal Friends launched a Capital Campaign in 2003 to build the state-of-the-art Caryl Gates Gluck Resource Center at Animal Friends, which opened in March of 2006. During Marleen’s tenure as Board Chair, Animal Friends conducted additional campaigns to fund the Mobile Resource Center to deliver low-cost veterinary services to underserved communities, an Endowment Fund to ensure financial security for the organization in perpetuity and the construction and opening of the Howard Ash Animal Wellness Center in 2017, a low-cost, full-service veterinary

clinic. Marleen received the highest honor for her volunteer service at Animal Friends when she was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award in 2010. In addition, Marleen served as the Honorary Chair of Black Tie & Tails in 2016. Following her term as Board Chair, Marleen served as Past Chair from 2017-2021. Marleen was elected as Director Emeritus in January 2022.

Marleen is also a retired Judicial Hearing Officer for the Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas, Family Division. Along with her late husband, Jim Ashton, Marleen provided Animal Friends with pro bono legal services and won many civil cases for the financial benefit of Animal Friends. Marleen shares her home in Washington County with her German Shepherd, Lexie.

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CLINIC SERVICES

What is Giardia?

A dog or cat may not show signs of Giardia infection. If clinical signs do develop, the most common are chronic or intermittent diarrhea, mucus in the stool, gas, decreased appetite, weight loss or vomiting. Giardia can be detected through a routine annual exam.

“

By Dr. Jessica Serbin, Clinic Services Associate Veterinarian With spring just around the corner, it is likely that we will return to spending time in the great outdoors with our pets. However, more time spent enjoying nature also means more exposure to pests and parasites that have the potential to cause issues for both ourselves and our four-legged friends. One such parasite is Giardia – a microscopic, single-celled organism that can infect the digestive tract of humans and animals.

When in the cyst form of its lifecycle, Giardia can survive in the environment for months, especially in standing water or moist soil.

Once ingested by an animal, the cyst changes its form and attaches to the intestinal wall.

Some of the organisms then return to the cyst form and are shed in the animal’s feces into the environment, continuing the cycle.

The best way to prevent your pet from Giardia is to prevent them from ingesting any potentially contaminated soil or water. This is especially important in areas at a higher risk of fecal contamination of the environment from other animals, such as at the dog park or areas frequented by wildlife.”

If your pet is diagnosed with Giardia – don’t panic! Although people can become infected with Giardia, the type that infects dogs and cats rarely infects humans and vice versa. However, if your pet is infected with Giardia and you are immunocompromised or have other health concerns, contact your physician and your pet’s veterinarian, as this may change treatment recommendations. Promptly pick up waste from infected animals and regularly bathe your pet to prevent reinfection. And always thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water after handling your pet’s waste.

If you have any questions about Giardia, don’t hesitate to ask your veterinarian!

Since we have seen an increasing number of Giardia infections in our region, all fecal exams performed through our Animal Wellness Center now include a Giardia test.

The best way to protect your pet from Giardia is to prevent them from ingesting any potentially contaminated soil or water.

This is especially important in areas at a higher risk of fecal contamination of the environment from other animals, such as at the dog park or areas frequented by wildlife.

We thank our spay/neuter sponsors

SPONSOR-A-SPAY Enclosed is my sponsorship of ... $50 to underwrite one spay or neuter surgery

Other $

Please make checks payable to Animal Friends, Inc. Name

in memory of Betty Geary

Address City

ST

Zip

Send this form with your donation to Animal Friends, Sponsor-a-Spay Program, 562 Camp Horne Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15237. All donations are tax-deductible. Or, make your donation online at ThinkingOutsideTheCage.org/DonateNow.

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Petsburgh Magazine

Amy Adams Ed Baugher Pat Calta Cheryl Gardner Marion C. Gaydos Alexandra Geary Mary K. Hynes Susan Jennings Maureen Kohne

in memory of Rosemarie Hildenbrand

Denise Kolenda Mary Lou Kossum Judith Montibeller Michelle Orr Nancy A. Stark Susan Tomsic Carol Tracey Danita K. Vitek Cynthia E. Williams Rose Yock

CLINIC SERVICES

How to Transition

Your Pet to a

New Diet

By Liz Moser, Community Resource Coordinator While it is usually recommended that you maintain a consistent feeding regimen for your pets, you may find yourself needing to switch to a new food at some point.

This may be due to a change in your pet’s age or health status or, as you may have experienced recently, food shortages or product unavailability.

The best way to modify your pet’s diet, and minimize stomach upset, is to slowly transition over a 10-day period. Start with a small amount of the new food mixed in with the old food. Day by day, increase the amount of new food and decrease the amount of old food in your pet’s bowl until the transition is complete. You may extend this routine for a longer period if your pet has loose stools or other gastrointestinal symptoms – just go back to the last ratio that worked for a few days and try again!

The best way to modify your pet’s diet, and minimize stomach upset, is to slowly transition over a 10-day period. Start with a small amount of the new food mixed in with the old food. Day by day, increase the amount of new food and decrease the amount of old food in your pet’s bowl until the transition is complete.”

“

For pets of any species, contact your veterinarian if any symptoms persist while you are transitioning to a new food. It is especially important to consult with your veterinarian if your pet is on a specialized diet as part of their treatment plan. Your veterinarian will be able to advise you on appropriate alternatives and feeding guidelines to ensure that your pet’s nutritional needs are still being met.

When choosing a new food, it is best to stick with protein sources already familiar to your pets. Try to avoid large changes in the percentages of protein, fat or fiber, if possible. If your pet is unsure about the menu change, add a meal topper or wet food to make kibble more enticing or offer the new food as small meals throughout the day.

If you run out of pet food and are unable to transition slowly, there are still steps you can take to minimize potential issues. For dogs and cats, feed a bland diet of rice and boiled chicken, beef or whatever protein your pet is accustomed to until you are able to purchase pet food. Slowly transition from the bland diet to the new food as outlined above.

If you run out of rabbit food, ensure that your bunny has plenty of fresh hay and water until you are able to buy food. In the meantime, you may supplement their diet with fresh, delicious greens. If you introduce new greens, limit the snacks to one new offering every three days, and monitor your bunny for health issues related to the diet change.

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ADOPTABLE DOGS

Featured Adoptable Dog:

General

By Anne Burrows, Animal Friends Volunteer General is a handsome, fun-loving guy who came to Animal Friends late last fall.

As I spent time getting to know this sweet gentleman, it became clear that he isn’t your typical dog … adventure awaits with General!

General loves people and is so excited to see his human friends every day that he can’t help but jump up and give a big greeting, while vigorously wagging his tail! He doesn’t say much but don’t let his quiet nature fool you, General is your companion for outdoor adventure. Once he’s leashed up and ready to go, General looks back to make sure I’m ready and then we’re off.

We like to hike along the wooded trails on Animal Friends’ campus so General can take his time to sniff, look for squirrels and gaze over the landscape.

General likes to be petted while we walk, but he is constantly on the move!

He enjoys exploring the trails to see what is under fallen trees and piles of leaves and climbing over logs or other obstacles. General doesn’t like to rush, so his ideal companion will be someone who also enjoys exploring.

After spending time outside, General loves to work on puzzles, sniff for treats and perfect his canine manners. He is a smart boy who quickly solves new puzzles and always wants more! One of my favorite

“

General is a handsome, funloving guy who came to Animal Friends late last fall. As I spent time getting to know this sweet gentleman, it became clear that he isn’t your typical dog … adventure awaits with General!”

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Petsburgh Magazine

things about working with General is his “puppy dog eyes” when he is learning something new. His face is one to fall in love with! One look into his eyes and you’ll see the expressive look he is known for.

Enrichment activities are some of the best bonding opportunities I’ve had with General. Because he is so smart and loves people, General needs someone who will keep working with him on his manners through positive reinforcement training and enrichment activities. This helps to keep his mind sharp, creates a bond with you and keeps him from getting bored!

General would most enjoy living in a home with kids 13 years or older and would do best as the only pet in a family where he can have all of the love for himself. While General has become a staff and volunteer favorite, we would all love to send him off with his new family on a new adventure!

ADOPTABLE DOGS

Rosie’s Rule dogs have been outfitted with GPS-enabled collars from Fi Smart Dog Collar. The company has teamed up with Animal Friends to provide collars for our canine residents who are at an increased risk of becoming separated from their handler and not being safely reunited. Once outfitted with a Fi collar, Rosie’s Rule dogs will keep their collar after adoption along with a one-year subscription to the Fi App – at no cost to their new family!

GOVERNOR This handsome guy

Grindylow is a unique boy who arrived at Animal Friends as part of a transfer from another organization. He is very social, full of energy and loves people!

Grindylow is looking for a home that can give him plenty of opportunity to release his energy and help him continue to work on his manners. Grindylow would do best in a home with children 13 years or older.

Is he your perfect match?

Governor would like to thank Judith L. Iwler for her gift.

Jemma came to Animal Friends from another organization after she was rescued from a breeding situation. When she first came into our care she was understandably very timid, but she was also incredibly sweet.

Our staff and volunteers took their time working with Jemma to allow her to settle in on her own terms. And now, this gentle giant is ready to begin her second chance at a great life with a loving family. Is it yours?

I’m a

Are you interested in adopting? Visit ThinkingOutsideTheCage.org/Dogs to learn more about adopting from Animal Friends and to meet more adoptable dogs!

>>

Petsburgh Magazine sponsorships are a great way to honor or say thanks to a friend or pet. And, they make perfect gifts! If you would like to sponsor an animal, please complete the form to the right.

Clyde’s tail is wagging because of Jamie Speelman.

JEMMA

Grindylow barks “thank you” to Georgia Jean Mohr for her generosity.

SPONSOR AN ANIMAL!

CLYDE Clyde is a young pup who is looking for family who is ready to give him all of the love he deserves! He may not have had the best start to his young life, having been rescued by our Humane Officers from a neglectful situation, but he is the sweetest boy. He can go home with a family of all ages and wouldn’t mind having feline siblings, too. Clyde is open to living with other dogs as long as he gets the chance to meet them first.

If Clyde sounds like your perfect match, come and meet him today!

is Governor. He is a big dog who could use some work on his manners, but he is very eager to learn when tasty rewards are provided! He would do best in an adult-only home with a family who is dedicated to teaching him through positive reinforcement techniques. Governor is a young pup who is full of energy and would love nothing more than to take long walks so he can sniff to his heart’s content! Come meet this fun-loving guy today.

GRINDYLOW

Learn more and support Rosie’s Rule

dog!

x $50 FOR AN ANIMAL SPONSORSHIP I would like to sponsor a ...

CAT

DOG

RABBIT

WHOEVER NEEDS IT MOST

TOTAL $

Name Address City

ST

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Send this form with your donation to Animal Friends, 562 Camp Horne Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15237. All donations are tax-deductible. Or, make your donation online at ThinkingOutsideTheCage.org/DonateNow.

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ADOPTABLE DOGS

I’m a

dog!

MISTY Misty is a gorgeous senior gal who doesn’t let her age slow her down one bit! She is quite playful and has an outgoing personality.

Misty loves to meet new people and is looking for her friend for life. She can be picky when choosing her canine friends and would prefer not to live with any cats. Are you ready to give Misty all of your love for her golden years?

Misty is grateful to Norma Jean Patton for her gift in memory of Wee Wee.

WHISKEY Whiskey is a handsome guy who found his way back to Animal Friends after his previous owner could no longer care for him. He can be a bit shy when meeting new friends so Whiskey would prefer to see you more than once before going home with you. Whiskey has been working with our staff and volunteers to help build his confidence, learn some good canine manners and get plenty of exercise. He enjoys chasing a tennis ball and going for long walks on our trails. He is also a master of the puzzle feeders and has won the hearts of everyone. Whiskey would prefer to live in an adult-only home, so if he sounds like a good match for you, he would love to meet you!

DAISY This big, beautiful gal is Daisy! She came to Animal Friends as a transfer from another organization and is eager for the chance to find her new family. Daisy can be shy around new people, but once she warms up she is very sweet! She walks nicely on a leash and enjoys taking her time on leisurely strolls. Daisy may be open to having a canine sibling as long as proper introductions are made first. Does Daisy sound like the missing piece to your family?

Whiskey thanks Joseph F. Barbusio for his gift in memory of Amelia.

Shopping on Amazon?

Go to Smile.Amazon.com and designate Animal Friends, Inc. as your charity of choice – each time you shop, Animal Friends will receive a donation!

BUCK Buck came to Animal Friends

from a partner organization in West Virginia and is ready for a fresh start and a second chance in a new state! He is a young (but strong!) guy who could use some help with loose leash walking, so he would benefit from a family who is willing to teach him how with positive reinforcement training. Buck is a family friendly dog who could go home with kids of all ages. Does he sound like the missing piece to your family?

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Petsburgh Magazine

MISTER Meet Mister! This 2-year-old pup is sweet as can be and is looking for a home where he can enjoy daily walks and plenty of playtime. He may be a little nervous when you first meet him, but a little bit of patience and lots of love will help him warm right up to you. Mister can go home with a family with children 6 years or older and may be open to a canine sibling as long as proper introductions are made first. Come and meet Mister today!

PET RETENTION

Combating

Pet Food Shortages

By Liz Moser, Community Resource Coordinator

Our Pet Retention team will go to great lengths to ensure pets stay in loving homes where they belong.

Over the past few months, you may have encountered empty pet food shelves at the grocery store or noticed back-ordered products when shopping for food online.

Perhaps you’ve even faced the upsetting realization that your pet’s preferred food is out of stock.

Unfortunately, you’re not alone – the challenges of the pandemic have impacted pet food supplies, from production to delivery, making shortages an unfortunate fact of life. Our Chow Wagon Pet Food Bank has not been immune to these challenges. Over the past several months, our Chow Wagon team has received calls from many distressed clients concerned that the food they need to keep their pets healthy at home might not be available.

“

We know the importance of keeping pets’ bowls filled, so we have worked especially hard to adapt to these changes to ensure that we can continue to meet our clients’ needs. Through our relationships with local retailers and a very generous grant, we were recently able to purchase several pallets of cat food to ensure that all of our

individual clients and food pantry partners receive their regular supplies during this challenging time. Generous in-kind donations from the public have also helped keep our shelves stocked. Despite national shortages, we have been able to utilize our available resources and have successfully distributed thousands of pounds of pet food to families in need.

We know the importance of keeping pets’ bowls filled, so we have worked especially hard to adapt to these changes to ensure that we can continue to meet our clients’ needs. Through our relationships with local retailers and a very generous grant, we were recently able to purchase several pallets of cat food to ensure that all of our individual clients and food pantry partners receive their regular supplies during this challenging time.”

We still primarily rely on in-kind support from the public to keep our Chow Wagon program operating at full capacity – your generosity is a crucial part of our mission to make sure that beloved pets always have full bowls. Please consider donating items from our wish lists or any other unopened pet food to support our pet retention efforts and help keep families together!

Use the QR code to view our Wish List!

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EVENTS

EVENT calendar

To register or learn more about upcoming events at Animal Friends, visit ThinkingOutside TheCage.org/Events.

SUNDAY, MARCH 13

FRIDAY, MARCH 18

ALLEY UP

BUNNY YOGA

Noon and 3 p.m.

Legacy Lanes, 5024 Curry Rd, Pittsburgh, PA 15236 Have a little time to spare? Then this event is right up your alley! Tickets include bowling, shoes, pizza, pop and a t-shirt. You’ll enjoy raffles, chance auctions and our very special guest Cris Winter from WDVE will lead the fun!

6-7 p.m. | Animal Friends Wind down from the week with a relaxing hoppy hour of Bunny Yoga with Jen’s Yoga Zen. Practice your Sasangasana, or rabbit pose, with the professionals – our very own rabbit residents!

SATURDAY, APRIL 9

SATURDAY, APRIL 30-SUNDAY, MAY 1

BOW WOW BINGO SOIRÉE

PITTSBURGH MARATHON

6-10 p.m | Animal Friends

Downtown Pittsburgh

Everyone’s barking about the Bow Wow Bingo Soirée! Sip on an assortment of beer and wine during our cocktail hour followed by a deluxe sit-down dinner. The dogs will have their day – and so can you – as you try your hand at our No Fleas Scratch-Off Game, Chance Auction and Specialty Bingo Games.

Join Team Animal Friends and run for their lives in the 2022 Dick’s Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon! With each passing mile, you’ll be stepping up your commitment to the homeless dogs, cats and rabbits.

Register at ThinkingOutsideTheCage.org/Marathon.

SELECT DATES THIS SUMMER

JAM ON WALNUT Walnut Street, Shadyside The most anticipated block party of the summer is back! Jam on Walnut is an outdoor concert series benefiting Animal Friends and our lifesaving work. Make a day of it and enjoy some shopping followed by a visit to the local bars and restaurants! Keep an eye on our website at ThinkingOutsideTheCage.org/ Events for updates.

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Petsburgh Magazine

Use the QR code to view our Event Calendar!

SATURDAY, MARCH 19

PET PHOTOS WITH THE EASTER BUNNY 10 a.m.-4 p.m. | Animal Friends

We’ll have a very special visitor hopping into Animal Friends to make an appearance. Bring your pet to pose for a photo with the Easter Bunny himself! No advanced registration is required, just stop on by! Please have your dogs on leashes and small animals in carriers.

MONDAY, MAY 23

ANIMAL FRIENDS SPRING TEE OFF Diamond Run Golf Club 132 Laurel Oak Dr, Sewickley, PA 15143 Hit the links at the golf outing that benefits our fore-legged friends! Enjoy golf, food, drinks and prizes with friends, family or colleagues as you spend the day supporting a special cause that will leave your tail wagging.

ADOPTABLE RABBITS

Featured Adoptable Rabbit:

Endora

By Shanleigh Knittel, Animal Friends Volunteer Endora came to Animal Friends with two other bunnies after they were found living outside.

She was frightened after fending for herself outdoors and had the most difficulty of the three adjusting to life in a shelter environment. I met Endora shortly after her arrival. She was so fearful that she had wedged herself behind her litter box. At that moment I knew I wanted to become a foster for animals like Endora.

While I completed my foster training, Endora went to another foster who began to work with her and gain her trust. She had already made so much progress by the time she came to stay with us! It took her a few days to warm up to a new place, but I could tell that she now knew she was safe.

“

We gave Endora a couple of days to settle in before trying to interact with her too much. She spent most of her time in her hidey house, which is a place for rabbits to hide, sleep and spend time while giving them the feeling of resting in a burrow. We gave Endora a plush bunny upon arrival to provide her with some comfort. On her second day with us her plush friend had moved from one side of her pen to the other and was sitting with her in her house. My husband and I both thought that one of us had moved it

She truly loves attention, so once we gained her trust she wouldn’t leave our side as long as we were petting her. Endora lights up when she hears or sees us and she’ll come running out of her house and put her paws up on the side of her pen to beg for attention.”

in there with her, but after watching the camera in her room we saw that she moved it in there herself!

She spent those first couple of days cuddling her new friend.

By day three, Endora was hanging around outside of her house more and allowing us to pet her.

She truly loves attention, so once we gained her trust she wouldn’t leave our side as long as we were petting her. Endora lights up when she hears or sees us and she’ll come running out of her house and put her paws up on the side of her pen to beg for attention.

Endora still frequently grooms her plush friend, so we think she would do well with another bunny. She’s the sweetest girl and I’m just so proud of how far she has come in such a short period of time.

This snuggly sweetheart is going to make her future family so incredibly happy.

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ADOPTABLE RABBITS

LEPRECHAUN Meet Leprechaun!

He came to Animal Friends as part of a transfer from a partner organization. He is a handsome Harlequin rabbit who enjoys exploring his surroundings. He may take a little time to warm up but once he does, he makes the perfect companion. He is young and active and would be willing to live with another rabbit, as long as proper introductions are made first. Adopt Leprechaun and add some extra luck to your life!

EBONY This young guy is Ebony.

When he first arrived, he spent some time in a loving foster home where he could run around, climb, dig and flop on occasion. He loves to be petted and even has a sweet spot on his head and nose! We know you will fall in love with Ebony so come and meet him today.

PEPPERCORN This handsome

guy is Peppercorn! He came to Animal Friends with a few other rabbits after their owner could no longer care for them. He is an active, young bunny who enjoys any chance to run around during our BunRuns.

He especially enjoys digging in a box of shredded paper! Peppercorn would do best in home with an experienced rabbit owner who can give him the space he needs to explore his new home.

Leprechaun is thankful to Debra Paulson Homich for her generosity.

Peppercorn says thanks for being a friend to Amy Soloman, and is grateful for her generosity in honor of Betty White.

AUGRA Augra was brought to Animal Friends

CRYSTAL Crystal came to Animal

Friends with two other rabbits as a result of an unexpected litter. She is a young bunny who explores her surroundings by tasting everything, so be sure to have plenty of rabbit-approved toys and treats on hand for this curious girl! Crystal would love to have another rabbit sibling who she could play with all day, whether proper introductions are made first with your current rabbit or you bring one of her friends home, too!

Crystal thanks Michelle Ford Thomas for her gift.

after her previous owner could no longer care for her. She is a mischievous young bunny who is still learning good manners, so in the meantime she could benefit from some enrichment toys and activities to keep her busy. Augra may be little but she is a big thrill seeker, so don’t be surprised if you see her climbing on top of cardboard houses and tunnels. There’s no doubt this fun-loving gal will bring you much joy for many years to come!

Augra thanks Carrie Kaufman for her support!

Are you interested in adopting? Visit ThinkingOutsideTheCage.org/Rabbits to learn more about adopting from Animal Friends and to meet more adoptable rabbits!

Get to know our rabbits by coming to our BunRuns every Saturday from 2:30-4 p.m. where their personalities really shine!

SPONSOR AN ANIMAL!

>>

Petsburgh Magazine sponsorships are a great way to honor or say thanks to a friend or pet. And, they make perfect gifts! If you would like to sponsor an animal, please complete the form to the right.

14

Petsburgh Magazine

x $50 FOR AN ANIMAL SPONSORSHIP I would like to sponsor a ...

CAT

DOG

RABBIT

WHOEVER NEEDS IT MOST

TOTAL $

Name Address City

ST

Zip

Send this form with your donation to Animal Friends, 562 Camp Horne Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15237. All donations are tax-deductible. Or, make your donation online at ThinkingOutsideTheCage.org/DonateNow.

ASK THE BEHAVIOR TEAM

For more behavior help, visit Thinking OutsideTheCage. org/Behavior

It’s Just a Walk in the Park “

By Veronica Rigatti, VSA-CDT, Canine Behavior Specialist One of the many highlights of adopting a dog is taking your new best friend for walks. The activity allows both of you to bond, exercise in the fresh air and explore different areas. For some though, walking a dog – especially a “reactive” one – may be stressful.

Dogs are considered “reactive” if their response to something or someone in the environment is disproportionate to the trigger – that is, they overreact. Reactivity is often confused with aggression, and the two can certainly look similar. However, reactivity is primarily motivated by fear or frustration at being restrained on a leash or tethered behind a fence, while aggression is motivated by a desire to harm. We can think of reactivity as a dog’s attempt to eliminate scary or upsetting triggers.

Dogs who are in a reactive state have become so aroused by something that

Dogs are considered “reactive” if their response to something or someone in the environment is disproportionate to the trigger – that is, they overreact. Reactivity is often confused with aggression, and the two can certainly look similar.” they have a much more difficult time processing information or managing their own behavior. At this point, we describe these dogs as being “above threshold,” or above their tolerance for these triggers. Our job as the handler is to keep them under threshold by managing their arousal levels and environment. We can do this by being more aware of our dogs’ environments than they are, and proactively avoiding anything that might trigger reactive behavior. Simply turn around if you know a trigger, like another dog, is around the corner. Avoid high traffic areas or times when there are likely to be a lot of other dogs out walking, too. Reactive dogs are best managed by proactive handlers!

If your dog does start reacting, move away and maintain distance from the trigger.

Do not try to ask the dog for a behavior like “sit” or “watch me.” When a dog is reacting, they are using their emotional brain, rather than thinking brain, so asking them to perform a behavior cue is ineffective. The best thing to do is leave the area. You can also use a visual block.

Move behind a car or corner if you see a trigger ahead and wait there with your dog until the trigger has left before continuing the walk. Scatter treats on the ground to distract them until the trigger passes. You may also follow this method if your dog begins reacting and creating distance is not an option.

Even if your dog is not a reactive dog, you should still use proper etiquette when out walking. Make sure your dog is always on leash. Even if your dog reliably responds when called, your dog should never be off leash when out, unless it is in a designated off-leash area. Do not let your dog approach another dog, whether on-leash or offleash, unless given permission by that dog’s owner. Just because you have a friendly dog, don’t assume the same about other dogs. If someone tells you to stop approaching and move away from their dog, there is probably a reason! Always ask an owner’s permission before introducing your dog to theirs.

With these helpful tips, we hope you and your dog can enjoy stress-free walks!

ThinkingOutsideTheCage.org

15

ASK THE BEHAVIOR TEAM

The Cat Lover’s Guide to

Litter Box Aversion

By Suzanne Denk, Dip. FBST, Animal Enrichment Specialist Litter boxes are often located where we don’t have to look at them, but sometimes that means we forget to scoop the box! When a medical issue is not the cause, litter box problems are most often caused by the litter box itself because it has become unpleasant and uninviting to your cat.

“

Cleaning and maintenance of the litter box is not a fun household chore but by creating litter box stations next to the litter boxes, you can make the chore quick and easy.

Gather the items needed for a litter box station including a clean litter box, litter, paper lunch bags, a scoop and a mat.”

16

Petsburgh Magazine

Litter boxes should be scooped twice a day.

Cats would like us to consider the following when it comes to litter box etiquette: Cleanliness

Litter boxes should be scooped twice a day and washed weekly. Remember, a clean litter box does not smell.

Size

The box should be almost twice the length of your cat so they can position comfortably and not have to stand on possibly soiled litter.

Location

Litter boxes should be in various areas and levels of your home which are easily accessed by your cat. Just like we have bathrooms on each level of the home, so should your cat.

Amount

The number of litter boxes needed is one per cat, plus one more. More may be needed to meet multiple location requirements.

Litter

Three inches of unscented clumping litter is preferred by most cats. Adjust the depth to your cat’s preference for digging.

Cleaning and maintenance of the litter box is not a fun household chore but by creating litter box stations next to the litter boxes, you can make the chore quick and easy. Gather the items needed for a litter box station including a clean litter box, litter, paper lunch bags, a scoop and a mat.

A small plastic box under the scoop will help keep your station clean. Paper lunch bags are easily filled with the dirty litter and thrown away. A mat under the box will help catch litter that escapes the box. Find an attractive container to hold all your supplies and add a dustpan and brush to complete your station.

Many litter box issues can be avoided when your cat is provided with clean, comfortable litter boxes. Setting up a litter box station makes cleaning the litter box an easy task, helps instill the habit to clean the boxes twice a day and reduces the aversion to cleaning our cat’s bathroom.

ASK THE BEHAVIOR TEAM

What Do Rabbits Eat?

By Erin Graham, Animal Friends Volunteer A first-time rabbit adopter may have questions about how best to care for their new family member. One of those questions may be what diet to feed a rabbit.

80%

First and foremost, a rabbit should always have high-quality timothy hay available. This high-fiber perennial grass should make up about 80 percent of your rabbit’s diet.

Timothy hay is important because it helps keep their teeth trimmed and maintains a healthy gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Rabbits don’t have the ability to vomit, so timothy hay keeps things moving in their guts.

You may vary the types of hay – oat, orchard, botanical – if your rabbit is a picky eater.

Fun Fact: A Rabbit’s teeth never stop growing!

HAY

are high in starch and sugar and may cause gas. High-fiber pellets should comprise another 5 percent of your rabbit’s diet.

Lastly, fruit is like candy to rabbits and should only serve as occasional treats. Apples, bananas, pears, mangoes and berries are good options to form 5 percent of a rabbit’s diet.

Introduce new foods, especially greens, slowly into your rabbit’s diet.

This will reduce the risk of digestive upset as their GI tract gets used to the new food. Keep an eye out for loose stools after introducing a new food. If loose stools persist over a couple of days, discontinue the food. Be sure to keep a list of foods your bunny likes and tolerates.

And always provide your rabbit with plenty of fresh water. Surprisingly, a rabbit may consume as much water daily as a 20-pound dog!

5% FRUIT

“ Your rabbit should consume leafy-green vegetables approximately 10 percent of the time. Plants provide additional nutrients and add differing tastes and textures to your rabbit’s diet. Greens also provide additional water. A good rule of thumb for serving greens is to offer 1 cup per 2 pounds of body weight, per day. Serve greens daily, including green and red leaf lettuce, romaine, endive, escarole, cilantro, basil and mint.

Rotate offering spinach, parsley, mustard

5%

10%

HIGH-FIBER LEAFY-GREEN PELLETS VEGETABLES

Understanding your rabbit’s diet can help them lead a healthy, happy life. If you have further questions about your pet’s care, don’t hesitate to contact Animal Friends or your veterinarian.

Rabbits don’t have the ability to vomit, so timothy hay keeps things moving in their guts.

You may vary the types of hay – oat, orchard, botanical – if your rabbit is a picky eater.” greens and sprouts due to the plants’ high amounts of oxalic acid. Contrary to popular belief, rabbits should eat carrots (and other non-leafy greens, like broccoli and celery) sparingly, as these vegetables

ThinkingOutsideTheCage.org

17

ENRICHMENT

You can make your own sniffing mat with a plastic sink mat!

is not a toy. Introduce the mat by placing a trail of treats leading to it that your dog will follow with their nose. This will engage their sniffing instinct! Scatter the treats throughout the mat and let your dog search.

Cats can be more visual than dogs and may need time to master the sniffing mat. Place the treats where they can easily be seen on the mat. When your cat has learned the mat means they will get treats, hide a few treats in the fringy strips for them to find. Rabbits

Sniffing Mats Are for Everyone

By Suzanne Denk, Dip.FBST, Animal Enrichment Specialist Our pets’ sense of smell is far superior to our own. Sniffing is not only a natural behavior for them but it is also enriching and stimulating for their mind. A sniffing mat can also promote relaxation after physical activity.

The sniffing mat can be a rag rug, fleece or t-shirt strips tied together, a shag carpet square or any fringed mat in which treats can easily be hidden. You can make your own mat with a plastic sink mat. Simply cut 6-inch strips of a t-shirt or fleece and tie a strip securely through each hole in the sink mat.

Knowing your pet’s individual personality will determine how you introduce the sniffing 18

Petsburgh Magazine

mat activity to them. For example, you will want your dog to understand that this is a sniffing game and the mat

“

Our pets’ sense of smell is far superior to our own. Sniffing is not only a natural behavior for them but it is also enriching and stimulating for their mind. A sniffing mat can also promote relaxation after physical activity.”

who are not enticed to chew the fabric can also forage in a sniffing mat. Always pick up the mat when the game is done so that it is not chewed in frustration when there are no treats left.

The sniffing mat is a perfect activity before bedtime because sniffing is hard work and can be tiring. Allow your pet to sniff the mat even if you know all the treats are gone! The game is over when they walk away. Be sure to supervise your pet during this activity, as with all play. In no time, the sniffing mat will be a favorite activity for your pet.

ANIMAL FRIENDS UNIVERSITY VOL. 4

AnimalFriends

University

1

No.

Register Online!

ThinkingOutsideTheCage.org/AFU

Est.

SPRING 2022

2006

WELCOME!

Training Classes

Welcome to Animal Friends University, home of the region’s most exciting selection of courses offered for, about and, sometimes, even with your pet.

KinderPuppy For puppies who have had their 2nd DHP vaccination and are 20 weeks of age or younger. Small breed and/or shy puppies may attend until 24 weeks of age.

All classes include puppy playtime and teach foundation cues – sit, down, stand and touch. In addition, each class has a specific theme. Exercises, behavior talks and homework relate to the theme of the class.

To view our complete course catalog, visit ThinkingOutsideTheCage.org/AFU. Classes fill quickly, so we encourage you to register online. If you have any registration questions, please call 412.847.7035 or email DKlingelhofer@ThinkingOutsideTheCage.org.

Cancellation Policy

If a class/event must be canceled due to insufficient enrollment, refunds will be issued. Notice of cancellation by a student must be received no later than three business days prior to the class/event in order for a refund to be issued.

To register, plea se go to ThinkingO utside TheCage.org/ DogTraining

Weather-Related Class Cancellations

Please check our website’s homepage, ThinkingOutsideTheCage.org or call 412.847.7035 for class cancellation updates during inclement weather.

Dog Socials For dogs 4 months or older who are both people- and dog-friendly.

Select Wednesdays and Sundays

Puppies Learn to Build Confidence

NEW! TOPIC

For some puppies, the world can be intimidating. You will learn how to properly introduce your pup to new things to set them up for success and how to desensitize them to handling and grooming equipment.

Also included, games that will help your pup communicate to you on how they are feeling.

Companion Dog Manners For dogs who are both people- and dogfriendly and 9 months or older.

This first level class gets your dog started with the cues of sit, down, stay, coming when called and loose leash walking. Laying a solid foundation with these skills is the key to living happily with your four-legged friend. As well as good manners, class discussions will give you an understanding of why dogs do the things they do and how to build a strong relationship with your dog.

Puppy Manners For puppies ages 5-9 months.

Teacup Hour A special time for the tiny dogs to play and for their people to mingle at our Outreach Center. This social is also suitable for other small dogs that prefer a less-active play style.

Small Dog Social Join other small dogs and their people for an hour of social time.

Dog play increases social skills and provides lots of exercise and fun for the small dog crowd!

Basic training for the older puppy will include household manners, manners for interacting with new people and places and playtime to increase dog-dog social skills.

Cues to be taught include sit, down, come, walk nicely on leash, wait politely, drop it and leave it.

NEW! Bashful Buddies For dogs who are shy, nonreactive and 6 months or older.

In this five-week class we will explore a variety of exercises to build confidence in your shy/fearful dog, including meeting new people, confidence in new situations and making positive associations with vet visits and grooming activities.

Dog Training Class Scholarship In partnership with Edgar Snyder & Associates, we are pleased to offer scholarships for AFU Dog Training classes!

To apply for this scholarship, please visit edgarsynder.com and then search Animal Friends and let them know how your dog could benefit from an Animal Friends University training class. Scholarships will be awarded quarterly.

ThinkingOutsideTheCage.org

19

AFU TRAINER SPOTLIGHT

Spring Into Action with Two NEW Dog Sport Offerings!

Agility for Fun, Level Two and Lure Coursing

Rodeo Dog For dogs 6 months or older who are both people- and dog-friendly. Dogs should be comfortable and non-reactive in a group class setting.

Looking for a unique and fun way to build a bond with your dog? Join us for Rodeo Dog! You and your dog will weave through a variety of barrel-like obstacles as a team in this beginner-level class. You will learn to work together, building a strong bond based on positive reinforcement training and fun!

Try this fun sport that is great for dogs with chase instinct! Your dog will chase a plastic bag mechanically pulled in a straight-line course in our large, fenced play yard.

C-WAGS Spring Scent League

Training Fun – Single Sessions

Coming soon... for details, stay tuned at

ThinkingOutsideTheCage.org/DogTraining

Including Leash Manners, Recall Basics and Four on the Floor

Check out Rabbit Training classes at Check out Cat Training classes at

Play Yard Rental Program

The Nose Knows – Single Sessions

Check out Human Training classes at

Reservations resume on Sunday, May 1!

Including To Pair or Not to Pair, Team Games and Nose Knows Ninja

ThinkingOutsideTheCage.org/RabbitClasses ThinkingOutsideTheCage.org/CatClasses

ThinkingOutsideTheCage.org/AdultClasses

Trainer Spotlight:

Debbie Thomas Certified Separation Anxiety Trainer and Hersenwerk Enrichment Mentor Which classes do you lead at Animal Friends? Adult Dog and Puppy Manners classes. I’m very excited to be offering a new course for shy dogs called Bashful Buddies. In this class, we will be helping build confidence in fearful and nervous dogs.

How long have you been with Animal Friends? I have been a volunteer for over 12 years and have been involved in many areas throughout the organization. I have collaborated with Suzanne Denk who is the Animal Enrichment Specialist, to develop enrichment trails and activities for the resident dogs. I’ve taught handling classes 20

Petsburgh Magazine

CPDT-KA, IAABC- ADT for volunteers in the Open Paw Program and I have also been a member of the Dog Behavior team for five years. I have a special fondness for working with dogs who are fearful to help them build trust and confidence.

What is your favorite part of teaching at Animal Friends? I love seeing how owners and their dogs build a stronger relationship by working together and becoming a team.

I feel it is essential to look at the animal as a whole and not just treat one behavior. You need to understand why that behavior is occurring. The relationship between a dog and their owner is also an important factor in what types of training or enrichment are

necessary for their team. Treating people and dogs with respect and kindness is the core of what I believe in. It is also very rewarding to see Animal Friends’ alumni attend classes.

In your spare time, what activities do you enjoy doing with your own dog? You might be surprised to learn that I currently do not have any dogs at home. I am devoting a lot of my time to my private training clients. I treat each dog that I train as my own, so I guess you could say I have 20 dogs right now!

ADOPTABLE CATS

Featured Adoptable Cats:

Majesty

(and Gracelyn!)

By Julie Galli, Animal Friends Volunteer Some cats leave a lasting impact on your heart and you will do everything you can to give them the perfect life. Undoubtedly, Majesty is a special cat who touches the hearts of everyone he meets.

“

Not much is known about this gentle cat’s past, but based on his tipped ear, we can assume that he was a stray and part of a trap neuter vaccinate return (TNVR) program.

In April 2021, a good Samaritan came across Majesty and knew he was meant for a loving home so they brought him to Animal Friends.

His first stop was to the Medical Department, where the caring team

Majesty is a staff and volunteer favorite.

We all love to pet his luxurious coat and fuss over his cuteness.

He has such an innocent way about him that you will want to protect this very special boy with all of your heart.” provided an exam and vaccines. During their evaluation, the staff discovered that Majesty has mild hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), causing a thickening of the heart muscles. The condition is genetic and found in certain breeds like Maine Coons. He doesn’t have any clinical signs at this time, but his condition will need to be monitored to help him continue to feel his best!

Majesty has typical Maine Coon attributes.

He is big, fluffy, gentle and even-keeled.

His meow is a beyond delightful soft chirp.

Majesty is not (yet) a lap cat, but he enjoys lounging and exchanging loving glances with his favorite people.

During his time at Animal Friends, Majesty thrived while sharing a room with three cats.

In his current foster home, he lives with another cat, whom he adores and cuddles with all day. He has excelled in playing hideand-seek and chasing his feline companion!

Majesty is a staff and volunteer favorite. We all love to pet his luxurious coat and fuss over his cuteness. He has such an innocent way about him that you will want to protect this very special boy with all of your heart.

He will thrive in a quiet home filled with love and a feline friend. In fact, his friend Gracelyn, who was rescued by our Humane Society Police Officers, currently lives with Majesty in his foster home and the pair have become inseparable! They are looking for a home with room for two. Are you ready to add double the love to your household?

Schedule an appointment to meet this dynamic duo.

ThinkingOutsideTheCage.org

21

ADOPTABLE CATS

SUNDAY Meet Sunday! She was

found as a stray by a good Samaritan who brought her to Animal Friends. Sunday is FIV-positive, but that doesn’t keep her from living a normal life! FIV stands for Feline Immunodeficiency Virus, which weakens a cat’s immune system, but a proper diet, regular vet visits and staying indoors could help her live a happy and healthy life. Sunday can live safely with both FIV-positive cats and non-infected cats as long as they get along well.

She is a bit shy but with enough time and patience, she is sure to let her true personality shine in the right home!

GROVER Grover came to

Animal Friends as part of a Humane Investigations case. He is currently spending some time in a foster home where he can slowly learn to trust and build his confidence so we can get to know his true personality. Grover would do best in a home with an experienced cat owner who can give him the time he needs to warm up to his new home.

Sunday is grateful to Emily E. Grum for her gift in memory of Snaefells.

SHADOW This handsome guy is Shadow! He arrived at Animal Friends when he was no longer a good fit for his previous home. He was declawed prior to his arrival but is an extremely sweet boy who loves attention. Shadow would do best in a home where he is the only pet, but that’s just because he wants all of the love for himself!

JERSEY This young lady is Jersey! She came to Animal Friends with a number of other cats as part of a Humane Investigations case. Although she is still warming up to us, our staff and volunteers discovered that she loves toys and teaser wand play, so interactive play time helps us connect with her. Jersey would do best in a home with another cat – maybe even one of her current roommates!

Shadow meows “thank you” to Lisa Salsberry for her support.

Are you interested in adopting? Visit ThinkingOutsideTheCage.org/Cats to learn more about adopting from Animal Friends and to meet more adoptable cats!

SPONSOR AN ANIMAL!

>>

Petsburgh Magazine sponsorships are a great way to honor or say thanks to a friend or pet. And, they make perfect gifts! If you would like to sponsor an animal, please complete the form to the right.

22

Petsburgh Magazine

Jersey would like to thank Kathleen J. Oft for her gift.

x $50 FOR AN ANIMAL SPONSORSHIP I would like to sponsor a ...

CAT

DOG

RABBIT

WHOEVER NEEDS IT MOST

TOTAL $

Name Address City

ST

Zip

Send this form with your donation to Animal Friends, 562 Camp Horne Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15237. All donations are tax-deductible. Or, make your donation online at ThinkingOutsideTheCage.org/DonateNow.

ADOPTABLE CATS

TALLEY Meet Talley! She arrived at Animal Friends several months ago as part of a transfer with a partner organization.

She is a unique, senior girl who enjoys playing just as much as she enjoys relaxing! Talley is currently on a special diet to help her stay healthy as she is in the early stages of renal failure, which is common in senior cats. She is looking for a home that can keep her happy and healthy!

Talley thanks Karen Hicks Voss for her support.

JOSEPHINE Josephine came to Animal Friends through no fault of her own when her previous owner was unable to care for her. Our staff and volunteers have been working with her on her manners and she is slowly starting to come around.

She would do best in a home where she’s the only pet so she can receive all of the love! Josephine’s new family should be experienced cat owners who can give her the time and patience she needs to be her most comfortable.

Josephine is grateful to Louise Greenan for her generous gift.

TWEETY This handsome guy is

HARLEY Harley came to Animal Friends after her previous owner could no longer care for her. She’s a beautiful cat who enjoys being petted, but will let you know when she’s had enough. Harley is a sweet girl who wants nothing more than a place to call her own! She would do best in a home with an experienced cat owner who can recognize her limits and provide her the time and patience she needs to get comfortable with her new home.

POUNCER Meet Pouncer!

Pouncer came to Animal Friends when his owner was no longer able to care for him. Since he arrived, Pouncer has been very shy, but through the help of our staff and volunteers, he is slowly starting to come around. He is looking for a home with an experienced cat owner who would be willing to give him the time and patience he needs to get comfortable with his new family.

Pouncer is able to live with other cats and may even prefer it that way!

Tweety! He came to Animal Friends when a good Samaritan found him as a stray.

Tweety is FIV-positive which doesn’t mean he is unhealthy, it simply means that he will need to see a vet on a regular basis to make sure he is feeling his best. He can be a little shy around new people, but once he warms up to you, he is a loving lap cat. Tweety is looking for the perfect family to enjoy his golden years with. He is currently living in a foster home, but if you think Tweety could be the perfect addition to your family, he would love the chance to meet you.

Tweety thanks Lisa Salsberry for her gift.

BIG BOY Meet Big Boy! This sweet guy is about 3 years old and came to Animal Friends as a stray. Big Boy is FIV-positive, but that doesn’t slow him down! Big Boy can still live safely with other FIV-positive and non-infected cats as long as they get along well. He is currently living with a foster family who says Big Boy is a sweet and friendly guy! Contact our Adoption team to meet him today.

Big Boy meows “thank you” to Louise Greenan for her support.

ThinkingOutsideTheCage.org

23

VOLUNTEER HIGHLIGHT

2021 Wrap-Up:

Thank You Volunteers!

By Maddie Aicher, Volunteer Coordinator Even though 2021 was not the year we had hoped for when it came to the state of the pandemic, our volunteers pushed through to help us with yet another incredible year of saving lives. Throughout the year, many of our programs were able to reopen, and with those changes came an outpouring of support from our amazing volunteers, who were with us each step of the way.

Our volunteers were as dedicated as

ever, donating over

246,530

hours of service

to our organization.

The monetary value of volunteer hours in 2021 was equivalent to

$3,697,950

A total of 301

533 Animals were placed with volunteer

full-time volunteers

were joining us monthly on campus by the end of 2021.

foster families during 2021 and 35 turned into adoptions!

donated through volunteerism!

The Human Animal Support

The monetary value of our

volunteer hours is based

off of minimum wage

– $15/hour.

After reopening our

Getting Started Orientation

in October, 280 new volunteers

joined Animal Friends’ Volunteer Corps.

24

Petsburgh Magazine

Volunteers helped us care for, socialize

Services Volunteer Model

and enrich the lives of almost

1,500 animals –

defines full-time volunteers

as any volunteer who donates

1,369 of whom found their new families during 2021.

six or more hours a month.

“

We’d like to thank each and every one of our volunteers for their service this past year. We are incredibly thankful and grateful for their heroism, their selflessness and the time they donate to our organization.”

SPOTLIGHT: MOBILE RESOURCE CENTER

Spotlight:

Mobile Resource Center

By Dr. Jessica Serbin, Clinic Services Associate Veterinarian Have you seen our truck out on the road? It’s actually much more than just a vehicle – we call it our Mobile Resource Center (MRC), and it’s a fully functioning surgical suite on wheels! The MRC allows us to provide low-cost feline spay/neuter surgeries and vaccine services to communities in our area that may lack access to affordable veterinary care.

The MRC offers the following services:

Last year, we held 72 clinics in eight counties and surgically altered about 2,000 cats. This success would not have been possible without our 17 partner organizations.

Our MRC is a fully functioning surgical suite on wheels!

Spay and neuter surgeries Vaccines Medical treatment for conditions such as infections, ear mites or intestinal parasites Flea prevention Microchipping Ear tipping for feral cats to mark them as altered and vaccinated

The program has grown exponentially since it was established in 2009, helping us reach more communities than ever before. At each clinic, we examine, alter and vaccinate approximately 30 cats.

The MRC is a vital resource for Animal Friends’ work toward ending pet overpopulation in our region. We are extremely proud of what we have accomplished with the MRC and look forward to increasing our impact even more this year.

ThinkingOutsideTheCage.org

25

SUPPORTER SPOTLIGHT

A Shared Love and

Lasting Legacy

By Cody Hoellerman, Chief Community Engagement Officer One of the many ways that generous animal lovers in our community support Animal Friends is through estate planning. By leaving a gift in a will, trust or other account, donors have the opportunity to make a lasting impact while leaving a legacy behind.

This past year, we received word of an incredibly generous planned gift from Joe Bagalini, a quiet but compassionate man who mostly kept to himself, but whose love of animals was undeniable. Joe, along with his late wife Laney, included in their final wishes the intention to leave their entire estate to Animal Friends. While we did not have the opportunity to get to know Joe and Laney during their lives, we had the pleasure of hearing stories about them and their love of animals after their passing.

To share their story, we reached out to Patti, Elaine’s half-sister …

“

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Petsburgh Magazine

One of the many ways that generous animal lovers in our community support Animal Friends is through estate planning. By leaving a gift in a will, trust or other account, donors have the opportunity to make a lasting impact while leaving a legacy behind.”

When Elaine Macio (known to all as Laney) met Joe Bagalini in the 1960’s, they found they had several things in common: they were both born and raised in Beaver County and they shared a love of animals. They also both were raised by hardworking, first-generation immigrants from Italy, Joe by his parents and Laney and her older brother Warner by their paternal grandparents.

Warner recalls that he and Laney did not have pets growing up and does not remember any specific incident involving animals when they were children but knows his sister loved cats all her life and always had several of them once she lived on her own.

Joe never mentioned having pets as a child either and given that he was born in 1930 at the beginning of the Great

SUPPORTER SPOTLIGHT

“

Joe and Laney had a lot of love to give, and I believe that since they did not have children to nurture, they gave their love to animals. The animals responded to the love Joe and Laney showed them and returned that love wholeheartedly and unconditionally.”

Depression, it is unlikely his parents could have afforded a pet. Joe did not have a happy home life, so he lied about his age to enlist in the Army in 1946 when he was only 16 years old. He served overseas for 18 months and was honorably discharged. He later became a Constable in Beaver County.

After Joe and Laney married, their home always had several cats, usually Siamese, and a black dog that Joe named Paisano and who was called Pi for short. The cats stayed in the furnished basement sitting on top of bookcases or under a table while Laney cooked or they watched television. They would tolerate cuddling from Laney and Joe but never came close to visitors, only watched from a distance. The cats and Paisano accepted each other and became friends.

Over the decades, as the cats and dog would die from old age, Joe and Laney would get more cats and another dog.

There was at least 4 Paisanos that I knew over the years. Even though cats have long lives, they don’t live forever.

Family members recall one Siamese cat that become incontinent as it aged who Laney and Joe carried around and fed her special food. They even created a special bed for her. When she died, they were heartbroken and it took them a long time before they were able to replace her with another Siamese cat, but eventually they did.

Laney and Joe loved other types of animals as well including horses, bunnies, chipmunks and birds. They were always purchasing day old bread from the stores and would put it out for the birds every day. In the winter they even purchased 25-pound bags of bird seed and would spread it out on the snow so the birds and squirrels would never go hungry. They did this every day,

never missing a day regardless of the weather. Even after Laney passed away, Joe continued to make sure there was food available for the birds and squirrels, every day. When Joe was recovering from heart surgery in the last year of his life, he continued to make sure the animals were all well fed. When I asked him why he would go to such trouble, he said “the birds gotta eat, too.”

After Laney died in 2013, Joe did not replace his dog, Paisano 4, when he passed, but continued to have a cat as a pet until the time of his death at 90, a friendly stray that was named Mustache, who now has a new home with a neighbor.

Joe and Laney had a lot of love to give, and I believe that since they did not have children to nurture, they gave their love to animals. The animals responded to the love Joe and Laney showed them and returned that love wholeheartedly and unconditionally. Everyone in Laney and Joe’s family always knew that when they passed, their estate would go to an organization dedicated to helping animals because their whole life was devoted to loving and making a home for animals of all sorts. Animal Friends is the organization they chose together to continue their legacy of loving and caring for animals.

To learn more about how your planned gift can make the greatest impact, visit ThinkingOutsideTheCage.org/PlannedGiving or contact our Development team at Development@ThinkingOutsideTheCage. org or 412.847.7051.

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HUMANE INVESTIGATIONS

Rescued from Neglect: What Happens Next?

By Krista Koontz, Humane Investigations Coordinator

Pinky, rescued April 2020

People often ask our Humane Society Police Officers what happens to animals seized as part of a Humane Investigations case. Many are concerned that these animals will be euthanized or required to spend the duration of their investigations and court proceedings in cages. While we have to make special

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Here at Animal Friends, caring for animals admitted through Humane Investigations cases is of the utmost importance. Since these animals may be with us for an extended time before being made available for adoption, we ensure that they are given the best possible care.”

considerations for animals who are part of Humane Investigations, they are provided with the same high standard of care as all the pets we help at Animal Friends.

In Pennsylvania, animals are legally considered personal property, giving the animal owner specific legal rights throughout the course of the investigation.

As a result, if the owner does not surrender their animal during an investigation or if we are unsure who owns the animal, Humane Society Police Officers are legally required to hold the animal until the courts order the officer to assume the animal’s ownership,

the owner voluntarily relinquishes the animal’s ownership or until all avenues are exhausted to determine the animal’s owner and no one has come forward. During this time, the officer is legally responsible for the animal’s well-being and must ensure that the animal receives necessary medical care, proper housing, food and water.

Oftentimes, the animal serves as evidence of a crime. This is especially true in cases of neglect and abuse. Humane officers often document the animal’s ongoing condition and treatment, while ensuring that they are properly handled as evidence and safeguarded so that their case may be presented in court. Sometimes this is a very involved process that requires careful monitoring of the animal during medical treatment, as well as throughout recovery and the remainder of the investigation.

Here at Animal Friends, caring for animals admitted through Humane Investigations cases is of the utmost importance. Since these animals may be with us for an

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Pinky, happy and healthy in his new home, Aug. 2021

extended time before being made available for adoption, we ensure that they are given the best possible care. This often means that animals who are part of an investigation move into specialized foster homes. Experienced foster volunteers are trained to understand the legal requirements that humane officers have to uphold during investigations, along with the rules and restrictions in place when fostering a Humane Investigation animal. Most importantly, these fosters provide warm and loving homes for animals in need during the lengthy investigation and court process.

If you have witnessed animal cruelty in Allegheny County, contact our Humane Investigations team to give your eyewitness report at 412.847.7066.

HUMANE LEGISLATION

Rabbits and the Law “

By Katlyn Weiser, Development Database Coordinator

While domestic rabbits are the third most common pet in the United States, there is a disconnect in how we think about and classify them pertaining to animal cruelty laws. Our Commonwealth’s animal cruelty laws do extend to rabbits, but there are limiting factors when rabbits are classified for laboratory, agricultural or game use.

Under agricultural practices, domestic rabbits are raised for meat, and under gaming practices, domestic rabbits are used as live bait for training hunting dogs.

Rabbits used in laboratories are purchased from breeders and then used for cosmetic and medical testing.

This inconsistency of our views of the domestic rabbit creates a barrier in keeping the species safe and ensuring that they are treated humanely. At Animal Friends, we strive to increase the public’s awareness of the domestic rabbit. In recent years, rabbit rescuers have seen great success in placing rabbits in safe, loving homes.

In 2003, Animal Friends welcomed its first rabbit residents. Bunnies throughout western Pennsylvania needed our help, and the staff and volunteers at Animal Friends were eager to act. Over the years, many foster volunteers have opened their homes to rabbits awaiting adoption and, in the process, freed up kennel space for additional animals. We are proud to have found

While domestic rabbits are the third most common pet in the United States, there is a disconnect in how we think about and classify them pertaining to animal cruelty laws.

Our Commonwealth’s animal cruelty laws do extend to rabbits, but there are limiting factors when rabbits are classified for laboratory, agricultural or game use.”

safe, loving homes for hundreds of rabbits through our lifesaving work over the years.

Domesticated rabbits face incredible challenges in securing greater protections and also receiving proper care and husbandry. Rabbits are entitled to receive adequate living space inside your home and should feel safe and comfortable.

Domesticated rabbits should not live in outdoor hutches or small, confined spaces.

Rabbits are extremely intelligent and can use

logic and thinking skills. Domesticated rabbits’ lives, which typically extend beyond a decade, should consist of enrichment and exploration. Cardboard tunnels, shelters and crumpled newspapers are just a few things that are used to help your bunny thrive in their home.

Sadly, many people still classify our third most adopted companion animal as a commodity to be sold, hunted and used for experiments. Rabbits can be bred, sold, mistreated and even killed depending on that rabbit’s status. And, rabbits can be used for agricultural practices including the production of meat and fur.

Through education and community support, we can build a more informed In 2003, Animal generation of rabbit owners Friends welcomed and advocates. Thanks to its first rabbit the work done by staff and residents. volunteers at Animal Friends, and partner organizations like Rabbit Wranglers and House Rabbit Society, we have already saved hundreds of lives. Animal Friends is committed to continuing this vital work and will act as a voice for the rabbits, cats and dogs who need us the most.

It is imperative that we redefine domestic rabbits as companion animals so they are afforded the same protections as dogs and cats in our Commonwealth.

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KIDS’ CORNER

Important Women in Animal Welfare History

By Ann Ensminger, Senior Director of Impact & Programs One of our goals at Animal Friends is to encourage children and teens to become the next generation of animal lovers and compassionate leaders in animal welfare. In honor of Women’s History Month in March, we want to share some stories of a few of the successful women leaders who paved the way in this field. We hope they inspire you!

Caroline Earle White Caroline Earle White was an animal lover from Philadelphia who became very upset when she saw animals being mistreated, so she developed some resources to help animals in need. In 1869, when she was 36 years old, Caroline founded the nation’s first animal shelter, which was located near her hometown.

Initially called the Women’s Pennsylvania Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, this organization, now known as the Women’s Animal Shelter, continues to care for the pets of greater Philadelphia.

Dr. Jane Goodall Eula Houston Eula Houston was involved with Animal Friends for 63 years and during that time, she touched many lives. While she had a tremendous impact on the lives of tens of thousands of animals, Eula also lovingly touched the lives of countless staff, volunteers and community members.

Sadly, Eula passed away in 2020, but the wisdom she has imparted upon each of us will continue to strengthen our organization and every animal and person in need that we encounter.

To put it simply, Eula was an amazing woman whose commitment, dedication and hard work helped to lead Animal Friends down the path where it is today and will continue to grow.

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Dr. Jane Goodall has dedicated more than 60 years to helping animals. Since discovering her love for chimpanzees early in life, Jane has devoted her time to learning about them, teaching others about her findings and being a voice for them.

She is currently 87 years old and still quite active as the founder of the Jane Goodall Institute.

Karen Pryor Karen Pryor is an animal trainer with 60 years of experience, who initially worked with dolphins. She is one of the founders of the force-free, fear-free, reward-based and modern training method known as clicker training. At 89 years old, Karen Pryor continues to inspire people to use positive methods of training.

KIDS’ CORNER

ACTIVITY: Try the Clicker Game!

Clicker training is a way for a trainer to communicate with an animal without using words. When the button is pressed it makes a “click” sound. The “click” happens when the animal does what the trainer wants them to do, and is followed up with the trainer rewarding a tasty treat. For example, if the trainer wants a dog to learn how to sit, when the dog sits, the trainer “clicks” to communicate that the sit was what they wanted the dog to do. Then immediately afterward, the trainer gives the dog a treat. The dog learns that every time they hear the “click,” they will get a treat.

The animal associates sitting with getting a yummy snack and this encourages them to perform the behavior.

You can play the Clicker Game at home to learn how clicker training works!

You will need: 2 or more people Something that makes a “click” sound – clicking your tongue or clapping your hands once will work just fine Some small snacks – small candies or Goldfish crackers work well (optional)

Directions: 1

Decide who will play the animal.

2

Decide who will play the trainer.

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The trainer chooses the behavior they want the person playing the animal to do. It should be one simple behavior.

Some examples are sitting on the couch, looking out a window or turning a light switch on or off. Do not tell the animal the behavior chosen.

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The trainer will “click” when the animal gets close to the desired behavior, but will otherwise stay quiet. For example, if the goal is for the animal to sit on the couch, the trainer will click if the animal faces the couch or walks toward the couch. If

the animal is facing away from the couch or walking in the opposite direction, the trainer should not do or say anything.

This is very similar to the game of “hot or cold.”

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If you want to, the trainer may provide one small snack each time they click.

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When the animal demonstrates the desired behavior, the trainer should give lots of praise and perhaps a few more snacks!

What did you think? Do you think this is a good way to communicate with an animal who does not communicate with words? If you have a pet at home, is this something that you’d like to try with them?

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NONPROFIT ORG US POSTAGE PD Pittsburgh, PA PERMIT NO. 602

Caryl Gates Gluck Resource Center Howard Ash Animal Wellness Center 562 Camp Horne Road Pittsburgh, PA 15237

THINKING OUTSIDE THE CAGE our Adoption team wanting to meet him and introduce him to their current rabbit. Bonding rabbits can be a lengthy and, sometimes, challenging process. If an adopter is interested in bonding their rabbit to another, we ask them to bring their rabbit to a meet-and-greet at Animal Friends to see how they get along.

Bonding can be instant, but oftentimes can take months, even years. Our number one priority is to ensure the safety of both rabbits and their overall fit.

HAPPY Tails

Bonding for Life

By Corrie Whittemore, Adoption Coordinator In May of 2020, Animal Friends welcomed over 20 rabbits into our care. Their owner had purchased what they thought to be two male rabbits, but they quickly learned otherwise!

As you can imagine, two unaltered rabbits soon became many, many more. But, our dedicated team welcomed these rabbits with open arms as each of them was given the care they needed, complete with a medical exam, behavioral evaluation and, of course, a new name. Shortly after they arrived, we found that several of them were pregnant and within just days, began to give birth.

Al Bundy was one of the bunnies who was born in a loving foster home. He has a larger-than-life personality and an endless supply of energy, which made him a staff and volunteer favorite, but we knew he would need an experienced family who could continue working with him on his manners. It is always a struggle to see an animal from a larger group wait longer than their siblings to find a home, but we believe that every animal has their perfect match and it is our job to be patient and give each animal the best possible quality of life while they wait at the shelter, no matter how long that may be.

Al’s big day finally arrived a few months ago when a potential adopter reached out to

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Bunnies are social animals and each one has the ability to find a friend in another rabbit.

Some positive behavioral cues we look for when two rabbits first meet are loose body language, softened almond-shaped eyes and even ignoring one another. A few signs that let us know the meeting may not be going well are pinned back ears, extreme focus on the other rabbit or belly-to-belly kicking.

Al and his new sibling, Matthew, were instantly connected and he went home that day! Unfortunately, only a few weeks after the adoption, Mathew passed away. Al’s adopters told us that having him in their home after their loss was so comforting that they wanted to find Al another sibling. Tabitha and Al were another perfect match, and Mochi the dog was thrilled, too! We couldn’t be happier for the whole family.

Al and his new sibling, Matthew, were instantly connected and he went home that day! Unfortunately, only a few weeks after the adoption, Mathew passed away. Al’s adopters told us that having him in their home after their loss was so comforting that they wanted to find Al another sibling. Tabitha and Al were another perfect match, and Mochi the dog was thrilled, too!”