2. How fish breathe under water
5. The process when a caterpillar changes into a butterfly
6. Special feature of a chameleons skin
7. How some animals stay warm in winter
8. Bees collect nectar to produce this
10. Intelligent marine mammal known for it’s playful behavior
1. The largest animal in the world
3. How bats find their food at night
4. What pandas primarily eat
9. Adaptation that helps camels survive in the desert
Pets After Dark,
the new after-hours veterinary care tele-health service that connects Pittsburgh pet parents with their regular vet or a local vet on weeknights and weekends, announced that Humane Animal Rescue of Pittsburgh (HARP) will be its primary charity partner. HARP is one of Pennsylvania’s largest non-profit organizations dedicated to the welfare of animals, pet owners and the community. Its two low-cost, high quality veterinary medical centers treat over 6,500 animals and perform more than 7,000 spay and neuter surgeries in an average year.
“We’re inspired by and share the HARP organization’s deep commitment to accessible veterinary care,” said Pets After Dark Co-Founder & CEO Howard Swimmer. HARP’s mobile medical outreach unit, spay and neuter vouchers, microchips for easy identification and pet pantry make it easier for pets to stay with their people.”
Pets After Dark Co-Founder and Medical Director Dr. Caroline Swimmer, DVM, added, “From its innovative leadership to its deeply committed staff and volunteers, HARP is directly responsible for thousands of positive veterinary outcomes every year. We’re proud to help support that effort.”
“We’re delighted Pets After Dark has chosen HARP to be its primary charity partner,” said Dr. Ariella Samson, HARP Executive Director. “There are few things more stressful to pet parents than having to deal with pet health issues during nights and weekends. The Pets After Dark service provides expert after-hours care that can save much time and stress.”
Pets After Dark is an after-hours veterinary telehealth service that immediately connects Pittsburgh pet parents to their regular veterinarian or a local veterinarian who knows them, and guarantees an in-person follow-up appointment with their regular vet the next office day. Founded by veterinarian and Medical Director Dr. Caroline Simard-Swimmer, DVM, and her husband, CEO Howard Swimmer, Pets After Dark enables pet parents to get expert answers and care recommendations during weeknights and weekends, when connecting with their veterinarian is often difficult or not possible. Visit www.mypetsafterdark.com
HARP is one of Pennsylvania’s largest non-profit organizations dedicated to the welfare of animals, pet owners and the community. Its two low-cost, high quality veterinary medical centers treat over 6,500 animals and perform more than 7,000 spay and neuter surgeries in an average year. In addition to caring for domestic animals, the organization is committed to care for indigenous species. The Wildlife Rehabilitation Center is a fully licensed wildlife facility that specializes in caring for sick, injured and orphaned wildlife. Annually more than 4,000 injured wildlife of over 100 unique species are admitted and treated by the Center. Visit www. humaneanimalrescue.org
NEWS AND EVENTS
Thank you for picking up a copy of the summer issue of PetConnections!
Please check out our newly launched our new website, www.petconnections.pet, Facebook, and Instagram page, @petconnectionsmagazine!
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We will feature events on our website, featured directory listings, your pet remembrance submissions, contests, and more! Please email submissions to pghpetconnections@gmail.com to have them published on line and in print.
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.
Welcome to our Winter 2019 issue!
SUMMER events are here!
We welcome Ease Animal Massage, Buzzy Photography, and O2 Derm Pet Topical Gel to our supporting advertisers!
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PETCONNECTIONS QUARTERLY
PetConnections, LLC. PetConnections LLC. was formed mission is to publish a high publication focused on Bond. We support local assist local non-profit and people, to give back Pittsburgh communities.
MAGAZINE PUBLICATION STAFF
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CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
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Veterinary Specialty & Emergency Center
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April Minech
Bernadette Kazmarski
Edward R. Moats
Check out our event page this issue for summer events, including VetPets Ride for Puppies on a mission on July 20th, 2024.
THIS ISSUE:
Introducing our new sister publications coming out in March, Integrative Healing magazine for people (and, of course, a pet section!)
We are also pleased to announce some fun new things that we have in the works for PetConnections!
On the Cover is Among the Wildflowers Sanctuary founders, Stephanie and Geoff Mosco
Cover photo credit: Erica Rae Photography. See the second part of the article, “Among the Wildflowers Sanctuary” on page 4.
We will be publishing pictures of your pet from winners of our new weekly social media photo contests! Also new, our membership sign-up button on our Facebook page, where you can receive news about events and contests, special discounts from our advertisers, discount event tickets, join our PetConnections Birthday Club for Pets, submit your story to be published in our Human-Animal Bond section or Remembrance, and more!
We welcome new and returning sponsors, Kenny Ross Subaru, Bartman Plumbing, The Creative Cabin, and Pets After Dark.
Our featured business, Pets After Dark on page 1, introduces their charity partnership with the Humane Animal Rescue to help provide accessible veterinary care to the public.
Our Human-Animal Bond section features VetPets and Puppies on a Mission, a program to pair trained dogs to assist veterans. Read about their event to fundraise on July 20th, put on by The White Oak American Legion Riders, Chapter 701, in White Oak, PA.
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 Buzzy Photography, Photography
Kate Dunn, Creative Director
Chartiers Custom Pet Cremation’s Healing Hearts Pet Loss Grief Seminar, Animal Friends’ and CARMAA’s events are highlighted in our event section.
The Rescue & Shelter section features veterinary services, kitten season and more. The Humane Animal rescue features their 150th year Anniversary!!
Harmony Dog Rescue is featured on page 16. This incredible organization provides homes to pets with owners in crisis.
Angela Romig, Graphic Designer
ADVERTISING SALES
Robin Reinfeld, Director of Sales
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Our cover features Manon Farm’s Princess Showcase riding show! See the Equine Affairs section article inside, written by April Minech! Also, a reader, Ruth Maloy-Carter submitted her heart-warming story, “Great to be Ginger”, in the HumanAnimal Bond section! Edward Moats continues his avian nutrition articles, with more great tips, in Feathered Friends. Also, we are revisiting Integrative Healing for Pets with Dr. Doug, in our Pet Holistic section.
Our Behavior and training section author, Rachel McMichael, CBCC-KA, covers tips for Dog Walking and Park Safety.
MARKETING DIRECTOR AND SALES
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512.554.7573
Our rescue section features Nate’s reptile Rescue. PVSEC/BluePearl’s article about winter safety for pets. Our Kitty Korner has Homeless Cat Management Team has spay and neuter info, by Bernadette Kazmarski. Equine affairs, Kristin Hermann writes about Learning from Source.
Blue Pearl veterinarians write about common pet oncological diseases, in our Pet Health & Wellness Section.
In Kitty Korner, Bernadette Kazmarski reviews Feline Life Stages.
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Kristin Hermann
PetConnections is published quarterly as follows: Early February, May, August, and November. 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 350,000 impressions this year. To subscribe to your own personal copy of PetConnections, please contact us below.
A tribute to my very own dog, Keiba, is featured in the Remembrance section. She was our amazing German Shepherd, and guardian for 9 years, rescued at 4 years old. She will be greatly missed!
Diana Svoboda
April Minech
Bernadette Kazmarski
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!
Thank you for picking up this copy of PetConnections.
We hope you enjoy these, and all of the articles this issue in our summer issue! Thank you for picking up this copy of PetConnections. We wish you a safe and fun summer with your family and pets!
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Carla Mader PublisherRachel McMichael CBCC-KA
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Army Veteran Omar Brooks and his wife, Nicole Malesic began fostering dogs after their dog Lotus passed. Omar saw quickly how working with dogs helped his mood and eased his PTSD. He wanted fellow veterans to be able to feel the way he felt. Omar served five years in the Army, where he was deployed with the 3rd Infantry Division at the start of Operation Iraqi Freedom and completed a tour in Iraq. When he realized how he could help, he and Nicole formed PA VetPets, a nonprofit organization based in Washington, PA to create awareness and raise money to release grants to assist veterans and first responders suffering from work related trauma. Working with therapy and service dog organizations, along with the Department of Veteran Affairs, they have been providing dogs to veterans in and around Pittsburgh.
Three more dogs are in Teamtraining:Recon as a therapy dog for the Cornerstone Veterans Residence in Clairton, PA.
This year brings new hope for veterans in need, as PA VetPets is working with New Hope Assistance Dogs out of Warren, PA to train three new puppies to become therapy dogs. The cost to fully train one dog is $17,000 but New Hope is working on a program for the dogs to be 75% trained by the time they get to VA PetVets for final training. This reduces the cost and speeds up the program. New Hope is working with the Mercer State Correctional Facility where inmates have been schooled in dog training to provide the first six months of training. The next six months of training are provided by volunteers at New Hope. PA VetPets completes final training then links each dog to a veteran or veteran’s facility for therapy and/or emotional support.
Team Zinda as a therapy dog for a combat veteran.
Team Tri as a therapy dog for a Vietnam veteran who has been fighting cancer.
By Diana Svoboda
If one puppy like Mercy can make a difference in the lives of our veterans at the VA Veterans Center, let’s come together to help the next three puppies succeed in their mission – to enhance the well-being of fellow brother and sister veterans. Be a part of Legion 701 Riders mission of hope and join them on July 20th to ride!
All four dogs require continuous care following training, provided by PA VetPets for the duration of the dogs’ working years, which costs thousands more. In addition to dog training, PA VetPets also runs a program called Warrior Wellness, which provides goal setting and nutritional advice, as well as a dedicated, licensed counselor available for veterans on site.
The American Legion’s overall mission is to enhance the well-being of America’s veterans, their families, the military, and communities through devotion to mutual helpfulness. The American Legion’s vision statement is “The American Legion: Veterans Strengthening America.” American Legion Riders Chapter 701 is proud to implement this vision. On July 20, 2024, they will be hosting their annual ride to support PA VetPets and local veterans, hoping to provide training for three new dogs, which could amount to a cost of more than $10,000 per pup. The ride will be approximately two hours, including a comfort stop at the half-way point and a police escort (subject to availability).
Please join the Legion Riders on July 20th to support PA VetPets and their mission.
All riders, passengers and non-riders are welcome. Registration is $20 per Rider and $15 per passenger ($15 lunch only for non-riders) and includes a continental breakfast prior to the ride and a luncheon after the ride, including free soft drinks and water. There will be a cash bar, a 50/50 raffle, and an American Auction. If you don’t ride, come for the after party and meet members of PA VetPets and support our local veterans. In the event of severe weather, the luncheon and all festivities will still be held. All proceeds of the ride will be donated to PA VetPets and local veterans. Members of PA VetPets and puppies in training will be on hand to greet riders before and after the ride.
Pre-registration is suggested - $20 per Rider and $15 per passenger can be sent though the Legion site: https://alr701.org or by using the QR codes below. You can send a check to American Legion Post 701, Attn: Riders Treasurer, 2813 Capitol Street, White Oak, PA 15131. There will also be a pre-registration table at the legion beginning at 9:00 am the day of the ride. Kickstands up will be at 11:00 am and lunch will be served at approximately 2:00pm following the ride. If you are unable to attend or are from out of town, please consider a donation to the American Legion Riders Chapter 701 Charity Event by sending your donation to the address above or by using one of the QR Codes below.
Team Mercy was trained to work with the Veterans Center in Pittsburgh PA with support from the White Oak American Legion Riders Chapter 701 in 2023. VENMO PAYPAL CASH APP
“You belong among the wildflowers You belong somewhere close to me Far away from your trouble and worry You belong somewhere you feel free”
-Tom PettyAmong the Wildflowers Sanctuary provides hospice care for handicapped and senior chihuahuas. This article is 2/2 in a series; the introductory story can be found in the previous issue of PPC magazine.
The heart mission of the chihuahua rescue is “to give the best that we can for as long as they have left,” declares founder Stephanie Mosco. She believes it’s important to help where you can, no matter how small. Her voice gets emotional as she shares her life’s work. “We started with seven rescues and have grown to fourteen. As full as we thought we were, we still found room or more.” The dogs she takes in come with the knowledge their time is limited and the animal may only have a year or two, or heartbreakingly less.
The new organization is currently home-based on three acres in Bridgeville and looking to grow. They all stay with Mosco, and she talks about expanding her own house to provide more space as well as how others will be able to help. One idea she’d like to develop is encouraging forever foster homes “so we can extend our reach,” explains Stephanie. “But we’re still getting into that space. We have a good group right now that help us out.”
The rescue is approachable for requests to make visits. They have a partnership with Handicap Special Needs Kids and take their “Wheelie” dogs to meet with the children. “To hear one of the kids say, ‘that dog looks just like me!’ gets me every time.” It’s become popular for offices and groups to support charities by requesting an “appearance” and donating a fee to the organization. “We’d be up for that,” she laughs.
The volunteers offer a lot of support, coming to the house and bonding with the dogs intimately enough to know where they like to eat. Each dog needs its own personal care, including medicines and daily routines of physical exercise and play. Volunteers also help at special events by bringing as many dogs out as they can to show the tiny benefactors of the rescue. “We do a lot of community outreach, such as vendor shows and educational opportunities. I have an education background, so it was important to me to share why these dogs are more adoptable than they get credit for,” Mosco emphasizes.
“When we started the group, we didn’t know how much this was going to affect our lives,” Stephanie admits. “We’ve had so many of these little babies come and go since the beginning and it’s hard because we wanted to do so much more for them,” laments Mosco.
While helping the dogs they want to help people, too. Stephanie explains that she’d be happy to teach others about managing a handicap or hospice dog, and it might be easier than they think.
“Whether it’s our dogs, someone else’s or a shelter dog, our purpose is to ultimately help dogs. And that starts with education,” she says. They are considered a source of information for this type of care and are happy to inform. The group takes calls and gives help based on its own experience. Food and nutritional questions, supplements, physical care or whatever is asked, Stephanie tries to guide by what has worked best for her. And everything doesn’t need to have as large a financial consequence as expected. Stephanie explains there are resources and tools available if you know where to look. “So, we try to connect the dots as much as we can for people.”
“We pride ourselves on being an educational resource” -Stephanie Mosco
Stephanie says that rescue work has given her life direction, and she found something she didn’t know she needed. “You try to fill your life with work, but I found purpose. And that’s what I will always do, for as long as I can!”
You can help Among the Wildflowers by spreading the word. People need to know they’re out there and how they are trying to help. Fundraising ideas or donations are integral to keeping the work going. Read more about them on Facebook @AmoungtheWildflowers and visit their web site at https://Amoungthewilflowerssanctuary.com
ANIMAL FRIENDS
Monday June 10th - Golf Outing
June 14th - Community Vaccine Clinic
August 3rd - Resilience Framework thinkingoutsidethecage.org
Low Cost Veterinary Clinic
June 17th - July 8th
July 22nd, August 5th, August 9th humaneanimalrescue.org/events/
beavercountyhumanesociety.org
As the warmth of summer draws near, outdoor adventures with our beloved dogs beckons. From leisurely strolls through the neighborhood to exciting and invigorating romps in the local dog park, the opportunities for spending time with our canine companions in the great outdoors can be endless! However, no matter how exciting this all can be, it’s essential to prioritize the safety and well-being of our canine companions.
Dog Walking Safety Tips:
Leash Safety: Leash training is the cornerstone of responsible dog ownership. Keeping your dog on a leash not only ensures their safety but also promotes good manners and respect for other people and dogs. When selecting a proper leash, always consider the size, strength, and temperament of your dog. While retractable leashes may seem great because they offer flexibility, they may compromise control in busy or congested areas as well as break or fail at inopportune times. A 4–6-foot biothane, nylon or leather leash is ideal for strolls and walks outside. If hiking where there are not a lot of other people, a long line (15-20 feet) can be wonderful for allowing your dog to explore a little, but still have control. Opt for reflective or light-up collars and leashes to enhance visibility during low-light or night conditions, ensuring both you and your furry friend are easily spotted by any passing motorists.
Ensure your canine companion is up to date on vaccinations and parasite prevention. Regular health check-ups are essential for detecting any underlying issues or concerns that may compromise your dog’s well-being. Consult with your veterinarian to establish a preventive healthcare regimen tailored to your dog’s unique needs, safeguarding against common diseases and illnesses prevalent in communal settings. One issue with some dog parks is that this information is not monitored. While we may work to keep up with our dog’s vetting, there is no guarantee that other owners will. Always keep the health of your dog in mind when deciding if visiting a dog park is right for you.
Vigilance is key when navigating urban environments with your canine companion. Always remain alert around roads and intersections and utilize designated pedestrian crossings and pathways whenever possible. Avoid distractions such as texting or phone calls while walking your dog, as they can divert your attention from potential hazards. You are there for your dog, so try to make your dog the focus of your walk. By staying focused and attentive, you can mitigate the risk of accidents and ensure a safe and enjoyable walking experience for both you and your best friend!
If you find that a dog park is not ideal for you or your dog, you can always go to a SniffSpot, which is like Airbnb for dogs. This is an app where people rent their yards or properties (sometimes many acres of land) to dog owners for a small fee and it’s a wonderful way to get your dog out to explore the world safely, especially if your dog struggles around other dogs or people.
Active supervision is paramount in maintaining a safe and harmonious environment within the dog park. Keep a close eye on your dog at all times, intervening promptly to prevent conflicts or inappropriate behavior. Avoid distractions such as chatting with other owners or browsing your phone, as they can detract from your ability to monitor your dog’s interactions effectively. By remaining vigilant and engaged, you can lessen the risk of accidents and ensure a positive social experience for your furry friend. One unpleasant experience can alter your dog’s behavior – try to make sure their experiences are good!
Extreme weather conditions can pose significant risks to our canine companions; it is crucial to adjust your walking routine accordingly. During the scorching summer months, aim to walk your dog during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening, to prevent any possible heat-related illnesses such as heatstroke. This is even more important if you own a breed that is brachycephalic, like a Bulldog, Pug or Pekingese. Remember that sidewalks and blacktops can get extremely hot under the sun all day, so walks on grassy areas can be much more enjoyable and safer for your dog.
Respect for posted rules and guidelines is essential in fostering a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere within the dog park. Familiarize yourself with park regulations regarding leash requirements, waste disposal, and prohibited behaviors to ensure compliance. Exercise courtesy and consideration toward other park users, intervening if your dog’s behavior becomes disruptive or aggressive. By upholding standards of etiquette and mutual respect, you contribute to a safer and more enjoyable environment for all visitors. Be cautious taking food or toys into a dog park, for some dogs these things can be challenging to be around and a fight could break out over such.
The safety and well-being of our canine companions are paramount when embarking on any outdoor adventure. By adhering to the principles of dog walking and dog park safety, you can minimize risks and ensure a positive and enriching experience for both you and your furry best friend. As you prepare to venture into the great outdoors with your beloved canine companion, remember to prioritize safety, stay vigilant, and embrace the joys of shared exploration and companionship.
The outside world is largely unpredictable, requiring careful observation and proactive management - especially if an off-leash dog approaches you. This can be one of the single scariest things for both you and your dog. Try becoming familiar with canine body language to better understand dog behavior to get a read on any surrounding dogs. Your dog should be able to feel safe on their walk, so make sure they do! Be sure to communicate effectively with other owners if necessary. Be fair to your dog by maintaining a safe distance from unfamiliar dogs. If approached by an off-leash dog, you can try to distract it with a treat toss to delay the approach in order to get away. If there is an owner around, ask them to leash their dog. Invest in a deterrent like Spray Shield (citronella spray) in the event that an off-leash dog runs up to you in an aggressive manner. Always be aware of your surroundings.
Prioritize basic manners training and socialization to prepare your dog for interactions in a group setting. Remember that socialization is a spectrum for dogs and not all dogs want to play in groups with others. Respect your dog’s wishes. Establishing clear expectations, routine and boundaries lays the foundation for good behavior and respectful communication with other dogs and owners. Use positive reinforcement techniques to reward desirable behaviors and address any challenges or concerns that may arise. By investing in your dog’s training and social development, you empower them to navigate social environments confidently and responsibly. Don’t just train your dog, train yourself as well! Learn important skills like reading dog body language, canine first aid and how to break up a dog fight if ever necessary. If you are struggling or want to learn more, hire a credentialed trainer or behavior consultant to help you further.
Pleaseseelistedpagesforcompleteaddresses.
A new rescue has come to the aid of those who find themselves in a temporarily difficult situation.
Harmony Dog Rescue. Named after their location - a 6-acre tract of gifted land to be used for animal welfare - in Harmony Boro, the group seeks to fill the immediate need for an increasingly common problem.
“Our mission is to provide safe homes for dogs whose owners are experiencing a crisis,” says co-founder Timothy Lydon. Initially, they wanted to offer help to people who were victims of domestic violence; people fleeing abuse and needing a place for their dog to stay while they went into a shelter or stayed with a family member. There was such a need for temporary care that they were immediately inundated with requests. People reached out that were suddenly homeless, in drug and alcohol rehab, or having medical emergencies asked for support. “We realized we needed to amend our mission and expand who we serve”, he explained. “We had to pivot right away because we got so many requests from people that still fit our mission but were a larger group that we initially wanted to serve.”
There are four main groups that Harmony Dog Rescue provides temporary care for:
- Victims of Domestic Violence
- Medical - Homelessness
- Drug & Alcohol Rehab
The group received their 501c3 last summer went live with their website in October 2023, and took in the first two dogs in early December. The group has housed about twenty dogs over the past 4-5 months. The surge of dogs coming into their care helped them develop the organization a lot quicker than they expected.
Lydon’s background includes working at the admission department at HAR, the largest shelter in Pittsburgh. “We would get around a dozen requests per month asking for this type of service,” he says. Many owners just needed a month or two to get on their feet and didn’t want to surrender their dog. Shelters don’t have the capacity for a boarding program that offers a large enough solution, so Timothy and his partner Molly McAleer decided to focus on that area of need. “We wanted to remove obstacles for helping people” he shares, which is much easier with a smaller (and more flexible) specifically dedicated group.
Reasons to Foster Individuals who wish to escape unsafe situations are often faced with the decision to either seek their safety and leave their dog at risk or stay and protect the dog while continuing to live in danger themselves. Individuals who experience homelessness or medical emergencies are often faced with the decision to surrender their dog against their will before they can find more permanent housing for themselves or temporary housing for their dogs. By opening your home to a dog in need you are taking direct action to support individuals and families in crisis.
While the ultimate goal is to keep the pet with its owner, there are still difficult questions to ask during the process. What if it’s not in the best interest of the dog to be returned to its owner? Will they continue to deteriorate due to an ongoing medical condition? What if the owner can no longer provide other basic needs? “We understand that there will be some hard conversations,” explains Lydon. “So far, people have been reasonable and want what’s best for their dogs.”
Another concern is how much money would the rescue be able to spend to stabilize a dog with a medical condition. “Luckily, we haven’t had this happen yet,” a relieved Lydon says. They started the organization with a loan, but like anyone doing good work often realizes, funds only stretch so far. Where to put limited resources is always hard. “Should we have a limit for what to spend on one dog? And what will that mean for all the others? Mission Creep is a real thing.”
Mission creep is when a nonprofit organization expands its mission beyond the original goals that were set and can sabotage a nonprofit’s ability to reach its original goals or increase the time needed to achieve them.
The group is supported by a network of about 20 foster homes and is continually accepting new applications. Foster homes start with an application that asks a series of questions such as how many people or pets live there and conditions that would fit a dog needing a place to stay. Then they can meet in person with the group to discuss individual questions and how it would work from there. Phase two plans for intake will include building kennel space for larger or unaltered animals or those that don’t have a foster home that fits their specific needs. If you wish to consider volunteering as a foster home, you can find the application on their website https://www.HarmonyDog Rescue.org under the heading Become a Foster.
To stay focused on the dogs they are set up to help, Molly & Timothy printed out their mission statement and hung it on their office wall. They offer up to 40 days of emergency boarding, with the stipulation that the owner checks in at least once per week via text, email, or phone call. The nationwide crises of shelters being overrun - some with month-long waiting lists for surrender – have resulted in several calls from owners who don’t know where to turn and contacting the rescue unaware of its shortterm support purpose. “It’s really hard when people are sincere and reach out because they have nowhere to take their dog and can’t get to housing or safety without surrendering it. Many people choose to keep their pets and stay in dangerous or unsafe conditions. There are a lot of deeper and philosophical questions that we hadn’t anticipated before we started.”
“We’re working through our growing pains and trying to help other people with their problems. That’s really why we started this.”
If you would like more information or support the good work of Harmony Dog Rescue, please visit their website https://www.HarmonyDog Rescue.org
TREATMENT
CONDITIONING For Working & Sport Dogs
Hemangiosarcoma
*see next page
Oncology Basics (onc = tumor or mass, ology = the study of)
The field of oncology deals with the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. Unfortunately, just as with humans, our pets may also be diagnosed with cancer. This article will address three commonly diagnosed cancers, how they may present to the hospital, and treatment options. It is important to know that just like humans, no two animals are alike. All medical approaches are specific to the individual animal(s) and what their family chooses for them.
The primary veterinary clinic/hospital, emergency room, or other specialty department are often the first stops when animals are having health issues. For this article we will discuss the following cancer diagnoses with dogs, and how they typically present to a veterinary facility: Osteosarcoma, hemangiosarcoma, and lymphoma.
Osteosarcoma (osteo = bone, sarcoma = effecting connective tissues)
Osteosarcomas are most commonly found in the appendicular (long) bones of the skeleton. Breeds at risk of being predisposed include St Bernards, Great Danes, and Irish Setters, although any cancer can affect any breed of dog. Pet parents will often notice a swelling of the affected limb, or sometimes limping that does not resolve with medical management. Diagnosis generally begins when the primary veterinarian takes radiographs of the affected limb and notes bone lysis or swelling. From there, it is worthwhile to have chest radiographs performed to check for lung metastasis before proceeding with further care, so that the veterinarian and pet parent has as much information as possible. A biopsy can be performed via bone aspirate or can also be performed after limb amputation. Treatment options include radiation, medical therapy (chemotherapy), or palliative care. Animals diagnosed with osteosarcoma will benefit from pain management medications prescribed by the primary veterinarian/surgeon/oncologist. Overall prognosis will vary depending on the chosen approach but should be considered guarded.
Hemangiosarcoma (hemangio = blood vessels, sarcoma = effecting connective tissues)
Hemangiosarcoma affects endothelial cells, which line all blood vessels. Predisposed breeds include German Shepherd Dogs, Golden Retrievers, and Labrador Retrievers. It is again important to note that any cancer can affect any breed of dog. Common sites of origin are the spleen, the heart (generally originating from the right atrium), and skin masses (cutaneous, subcutaneous, or dermal). Depending on the location of the primary tumor, the diagnosis can be achieved via routine appointment at the primary veterinary facility as in the case of a skin mass. Sadly, oftentimes these animals present through the emergency department after collapse or severe lethargy due to blood loss. Treatment options can include surgery, blood transfusions, chemotherapy, and hemostatic medications. The prognosis is extremely guarded.
facility with an acute history of not doing well and general decline, regardless of the size of peripheral lymph nodes. Treatment options include steroids, chemotherapy, and general supportive care to help with nausea, inappetence, and diarrhea. Prognosis varies greatly depending on further nuances of the diagnosis and treatment options chosen by the family.
Many different types of cancer affect our beloved pets. Osteosarcoma, hemangiosarcoma, and lymphoma are three different cancers commonly seen in a veterinary oncology clinic. Treatment options depend on the overall condition of the patient and are guided by veterinary professionals whether it is at the primary veterinary office, emergency department, or within the oncology department itself.
Lymphoma is also a cancer of connective tissues. In this case, the cancer is affecting the lymphatic tissues which are present all through the body (commonly lymph nodes, spleen, liver, bone marrow; less commonly mediastinum, eyes, central nervous system). Predisposed breeds include Boxers, Pitbulls, and Rottweilers. As always, any cancer can affect any breed or any breed mixes. Diagnosis is routinely achieved by sampling an enlarged lymph node via fine needle aspirate at primary veterinary facilities. These animals may also present through an emergency
Each blood donation saves 3 lives.
With increased demand and a national pet blood supply shortage, BluePearl Pet Blood Bank is dedicated to providing a safe and plentiful blood supply to animals in need. Please consider your pet becoming a hero to save another pet in need. The pets saved through our donor program may be your own.
Eligible dog blood donors are between ages 1-7, weigh 50 lbs or more, have a gentle temperament, are currently vaccinated, have never had a transfusion and are on heartworm, flea + tick meds. There is no cost to participate and donors receive free annual lab work.
Contact: pittbloodbank@bluepearlvet.com
In the photo, young adult and senior—Giuseppe at 18 months was a young adult and Peaches at age 20 was considered geriatric at that time, senior now. Often age differences in cats keep them from close bonds but Giuseppe adored her and stayed close with her in her last months, escorting her around the house and napping with her, keeping her warm.
So just how old is a senior cat, and when do cats go from being kittens to being adults? Are there stages inbetween, and beyond? And do we count five years for every year to equal the human equivalent, or seven?Or does that even really work?
And why is this important? Because we can better plan and target our care for our cats as they movethrough life when the guidelines for each stage give us more accurate information on what’s usuallyhappening and what to expect with a cat in a given age group. Beyond those general guidelines ourveterinarians can study our cats with diagnostics for things that might not be expected in a particularstage, or completely unrelated to stages at all.
A kitten may be able to reproduce at four months, but its body isn’t really mature enough to move onto the next stage until it’s about a year old, so the Kitten stage was expanded.
The prior Junior stage was equivalent to a human teenager when our bodies are still developing, but while cats may develop more muscle and “fill out” somewhat, most cats won’t go through any major physical development between ages one and six. They are essentially adults and their activity level will remainabout the same as will their nutritional needs.
Junior and Prime were combined into one new stage: Young Adult.
At one time the six feline life stages were closely equivalent to life stages in humans.
Kitten: birth to 6 months (human birth to 10 years)
Junior: 7 months to 2 years (human 12 years to 24 years)
Prime: 3 years to 6 years (human 28 years to 40 years)
Mature: 7 years to 10 years (human 44 years to 56 years)
Senior: 11 years to 14 years (human 60 years to 72 years)
Geriatric: 15+ years (human 76 years to 118 years)
The Mature stage didn’t change at all except its name, Mature Adult, to indicate the second stage of adulthood, equivalent to our “middle age” when activity level, health, behavior and dietary needs may change as we all lean toward our senior years. Cats may be less active and may gain weight because of it. That may be behavioral or health-related or a little bit of both as they sleep a little longer, or they may be developing osteoarthritis. They may eat as enrichment when they would have played as enrichment when younger and no longer working off those calories.
The prior Senior and Geriatric stages were combined into one Senior stage, reflective of the continuing improvement in aging cats’ health. Some cats do enter a geriatric stage as they move through their teens and into their 20s, others do not. But we can do so much more for our cats all their lives, and especially inthese golden years, that they can live this decade or more with little change.
The American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP) simplified the chart of feline life stages in 2021, reducing it from six to four life stages. The changes were recommended because felines are livinglonger and in better health and age-related conditions aren’t so prevalent. While six categories did make sense as equivalents to human life stages that equivalency just wasn’t valuable for felines in describing their needs at ages equivalent to humans, but can be used as a loose comparison.
Kitten: birth to 1 year (human birth to 15 years)
Young Adult: 1 year to 6 years (human 24 to 40 years)
Mature Adult: 7 years to 10 years (human 44 to 56 years)
‘Senior: 11 years to 25 years (human 60 to 116 years)
The new feline life stages are based on development, nutritional needs and behavior and health. Theboundaries don’t have hard lines dividing them because health and needs may vary somewhat with each individual cat.
This course will provide didactic and hands-on learning focused on High Quality High Volume Spay/Neuter (HQHVSN) techniques.
HQHVSN is based on optimizing the team, protocols, and workflow to provide safe and efficient spay/neuter of pets, shelter animals, and community cats. This is accomplished by creating simple protocols and procedures that maximize efficiency of the team while minimizing any potential for oversights and developing skill through repetition.
Three-minute cat spays can easily and safely be performed based on slight modifications in surgical technique. HQHVSN is a way to save more lives - preventing homelessness and euthanasia due to overpopulation.
It is not just for shelters anymore!
In-clinic trainings available for larger teams within a 60 mile radius.
Nearly 1 million cats lose their lives each year due to overpopulation and lack of homes. A large part of the problem is the community cat population, the 40 million cats in the United States that are homeless and breeding. This “unowned” cat population is responsible for around 80% of the kittens born and brought into shelters, leading open door shelters to do what is unthinkable to us - euthanize cats that haven’t been adopted to make space for those suffering in the streets.
This is where we come in. Our mission is to end suffering and overpopulation by “turning off the faucet” rather than “bailing out the tub.” It means becoming proactive and getting these community cats spayed, neutered, and vaccinated so we don’t have to continue this cycle of reactivity and unnecessary killing. There is no need to "recreate the wheel," we have spayed and neutered tens of thousands of cats and as the commercial says, "learned a thing or two." We hope to have the opportunity to share what we've learned with you.
12 RACE Approved CE Credits for Vets and Vet Techs!
Learn time-tested and scientifically-validated techniques to:
Make smaller incisions for greater patient comfort and faster recoveries.
Maximize efficiency while obtaining excellent patient outcomes, allowing more surgeries in less time.
Enhance team morale and boost practice revenue by engaging the team to utilize their skills fully.
Frankie's Friends
730 5th Ave.
New Kensington, PA 15068
724-889-7011
www.frankies-friends.org
Session 1 - Apr. 27-28
Session 2 - Jun. 8-9
June 8th-9th August 10th-11th October 12th-13th
Held at Frankie's Friends HQHVSN Clinic and Training Center
In New Kensington, PA (17 miles from Pittsburgh)
Meet Your Instructor: Becky L. Morrow, DVM, MS, CAWA
Dr. Morrow has extensive training and experience in Shelter Medicine, with a master’s degree, two graduate certificates, and over a decade in practice as a Shelter Medicine/HQHVSN Veterinarian.
Dr. Morrow taught HQHVSN (high quality high volume spay/neuter) techniques at the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine and is currently an Adjunct Professor at the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine and an Assistant Teaching Professor at Penn State University.
For more information or to register scan, call, or email!
724-889-7011 clinic@frankiesfriends.org
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.
NOTE:datesaresetfortheclinics,butatpublicationit’snotyetdeterminedwhichclinicsareFreeorFastTrack. Checkwww.homelesscat.org/clinic-infoforthemostuptodateinformation.
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.
2024 January to June Clinics
NOTE: dates may be added and are subject to change. Call 412-321-4060 for additional dates
NO-CHARGE CLINICS— FERALS ONLY
June 22: Paws Across Pittsburgh
FAST TRACK
CLINICS—$50 PER FERAL
June 8
Check homelesscat.org/clinicinfo for the most up to date information.
Charges as of January 2024
Ferals including FVRCP $50
Females including rabies & flea treatment $65
Males including rabies & flea treatment $50
All surgeries include surgery, pain medicine, rabies vaccine and flea treatment.
Additional Services
Distemper (FVCRP) $12
Combo FIV/FeLV Test $30
FeLV vaccination $14
Dewormer (Profender) $12
Microchip $30
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-cost-spayneuter/ 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 724-5392544 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 flea 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-cat-surgeryprices/
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 specifications 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-and-neuter. 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-and-neuterservices/
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 offset 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 offer 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, flea and earmite treatments, $5 off with an eartip.
Other services and dog surgery services also available.
Fix’N Wag’N
Mobile spay/neuter unit (724) 201-9413, email contact@fixnwagn.com
Visit: fixnwagn.com/ Spay/neuter package $85-100 (price varies by location)
Includes surgery, rabies pain medication, FVRCP vaccine, flea treatment (30 day dose), ear mite treatment if needed, and an ear tip for our outdoor community cats. Visit the website for upcoming mobile dates and places.
Feral walk-ins $90
Includes surgery, extended-release pain medication, rabies 1 year vaccine, FVRCP booster, flea and ear mite treatment, an ear tip, complimentary dose of Profender. Drop off 7:45 to 8:30 a.m. at 4284 William Flinn Hwy, Suite 103, Allison Park, PA 15101
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: Neuter $65, Spay $75, includes rabies, ear mite and flea treatment,pain medication, antibiotic Other services and dog services also available.
Visit frankies-friends.org/veterinaryclinic
North Hills Spay/Neuter Clinic
3967 William Flinn Hwy, Allison Park, PA (412) 213-7353
Open Monday-Friday. No longer offering walk-in services for ferals
Pet/TNR Spay $56, Neuter $37 Also offers low cost vaccinations and basic medical treatments. Visit website for details and scheduling: spayaz.com/locations/pittsburghnorth-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/ neuterunit.
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/resources-page/ low-cost-veterinary-care-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-locator-map/
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/
Pittsburgh Veterinary Specialty and Emergency Center (PVSEC) North Hills 807 Camp Horne Rd, Pittsburgh, PA 15237 (412) 366-3400
Visit: bluepearlvet.com/hospital/ pittsburgh-north-pa/
WashingtonPA 1535WashingtonRd.Washington, PA15301 (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/
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 ART, 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
Animals Against 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, 724-206-9902
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 Nebo Agway Sewickley, PA 412-364-4430
Beaver Agway Beaver, PA 724-775-0535
Mars Agway Mars PA 724-625-2340
South: Eighty Four Agway Eighty Four, PA 724-222-0600
East:
Ligonier Agway Ligonier, PA 724-238-6207
West: Imperial Agway, Imperial, PA | 724695-7388
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, DVM - Fox 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 jeffersonmemorial.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 Waterproofing jdwaterproofing.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 jdwaterproofing.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/judy-smithteam/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
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. Ruffing, 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-costveterinary-services 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 fixurcat.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)
the middle of your dressage test!
...and you thought I was talking about cookies!By Kristin Hermann
I have judged several schooling dressage shows over the years, and here is one of my soap boxes. Do riders read the tests before they show? Do trainers train riders on the requirements of the tests? All the tests have movements that are double points, and the stretchy circle and free walk are double points. Riders and trainers should know which movements are double points in the tests and show those movements to the best of their ability to raise the score or to potentially make up for some mistakes in the test.
Even though the free walk and stretchy circle are double points, they are rarely performed well. As a rider, trainer, and instructor who loves to stretch horses I must comment. I also wrote the first article about stretching that was published in Dressage & CT before stretching was even introduced into the USEF dressage tests.*
This horse is starting to stretch down. The judge wants to see the horse’s nose at least at the level of the horse’s knees.
The free walk and stretchy circle allow the horse to rest in the middle of a test. However, it also shows the judge that the horse uses its back and is not ridden in a headset. Riding a horse in a headset is constraining to the horse’s movement but it is easier to achieve than allowing the horse to accept contact over it’s back.
Riding a horse correctly back to front on the aids or on the bit allows the horse to use its body unconstrained with a rider. A horse moving over it’s back is a horse that the rider allows to stretch into the contact taking a full stride through the rider’s seat as opposed to being held together. The horse’s top line lifts under the rider’s seat.
Judging the local schooling shows, I see it is a struggle for riders to allow the horse to stretch down for the free walk and/or the trot stretch circle. As the basis of basic training and in addition being double points, I would think most dressage enthusiasts would relish allowing the horse to stretch and seek advise on how to perform this movement.
Prior to showing, I suggest looking over the test months before you ride it and say to yourself, “To raise my score, I need to be able to do these double-point movements and which ones are they in the test I am doing?” Or, how about, “For my horse to be supple and elastic, it needs to be able to stretch.” Please don’t wait for your trainer to tell you; your responsibility is to know your tests and what the judge expects! It is all on you.
Nice stretch at the free walk, and a bonus is that the horse is straight! You mean I have to stretch and ride a straight line?
I think any trainer would value the student who approached them and said, “How can we do this better as I see this movement in the test is double points?” Of course, the trainer could be thinking to themselves, “Silly, we have done this in every lesson; where have you been!”
Stretching your horse’s top line is the beginning of all basic training! Stretching the horse lifts the back, lengthens the stride, develops the top line, trains the correct muscles, releases tension, frees the gaits, and trains elasticity, to name a few benefits! Elastic, supple, free, and unconstrained are the words we want our horse to display in the show. Certainly, we don’t want to hear these words from the judge: tense, tight, and restricted!
Showing is displaying your horse’s three natural gaits to the judge and paying for their opinion on how well you have done your job training your horse. As a competitor you’re paying the judge for their opinion on how well we have trained the horse in both directions to be supple, obedient, unconstrained, and fluid at all three gaits. As well-known International judge Janet Foy said at a local clinic, “If you cannot buy gaits, you better be able to train them!”
The free walk and stretchy circle are challenging to ride. To ride both correctly does not mean just letting the reins get longer and the horse stretches down, “Ha,” this would be too easy! Stretching the horse is supposed to be ridden on contact! Yikes, it was hard
enough establishing a Training Level frame with contact; now we have to do it with a longer rein? Yes, that is right! A phrase I often use when teaching the stretchy circle is that the rider has to “maintain a frame with a longer rein.” Keeping a contact or connection is hard enough with a two-foot rein; now, the reins must be four feet long to allow the horse to stretch.
Allowing the horse to stretch “down and out” and then also being able to ride the horse “under and up” is one of the challenges of dressage training. We spend most of our riding lessons learning basic riding position to communicate to the horse with our aids. Then we learn how to get the horse on the bit unconstrained over its back, and then we have to allow the horse to stretch down while being on the bit!
Learning how to stretch your horse at the free walk and trot may be difficult, but it should still be attempted and eventually mastered. Remember, stretching is double points! When I judge, and the competitor comes up to me at the end of the ride, and I say, “Did you know stretching your horse in the free walk is double points? “ They look at me like a deer in headlights! However, after they see their score and realize that stretching is double points and they never even attempted a stretch, they make an effort to allow the horse to stretch down the next time into the arena.
This is a great stretch. The horse’s nose is down by the knees, a light contact is maintained and the horse is taking a full stride!
Using your photos I create a lasting gift for yourself or a loved one.
Bernadette E. Kazmarski, artist www.PortraitsOfAnimals.net
The author stretching her horse in the early eighties before stretching was even introduced into dressage tests.
As a result, my score often goes up, and my obsession with stretching is fulfilled and the rider learns a valuable lesson. Another benefit is that a horse’s back is happier and more supple because the rider allowed it to stretch.
Indeed, stretching your horse’s top line unconstrained through your aids ( legs, seat and hands) is not only valuable for your horse’s gymnastic training, but it will raise your score and develop riding finesse. To learn how to train your horse to stretch, ask your trainer, ask me, or read books. Double stuff with double points in the middle of each test; here we come! And you thought you just had to ride a few twenty-meter circles and a couple of straight lines!
* Article by Kristin published in Dressage & CT in 1986 before stretching was introduced to the tests in 1991: http://blythdale.tripod.com/ coventryequestriancenter/id40.html
April 2011- March 2024
“Keiba”, “The most beautiful, romantic, and iconic moment of the day is reflected in the Hawaiian girl’s name Keiba. Meaning “sunrise,” little Keiba will shine the brightest, the earliest, and the strongest. For most people, the sunrise happens in the blink of an eye, and then it’s gone.” (reference, thebump.com).
Keiba came to us in April of 2015, through a friend who ran a small German Shepherd rescue started by her ten-year-old daughter, Teija. We had just lost our 12-year-old lab, Angie, and needed a companion for her sister, Cyndi.
Keiba had an incredible outgoing personality and got along with all the farm animals and was very gentle with children. She was well trained at 4-years-old when we adopted her, and was an excellent watch dog, and always dependable!
Keiba, weighing over 100 lbs., had an extraordinarily loud bark. She came from a couple who were expecting a baby and could not keep her. Keiba happily had the run of our 8-acre farm until her arthritis and pain, from an early infection of Lyme disease, caught up with her. At the ripe age of 13 years, she was no longer comfortable and, finally, was struggling with paraparesis, needing a harness and sling to get up and around. Dr. Ruffing from Gentle Journey Veterinary Hospice took great care of Keiba for the last few weeks, until we had to face the unthinkable, and say goodbye!
We will always cherish Keiba where she remains in our thoughts and hearts, and all the wonderful memories. We will miss her and the brightness she added to every day that she brought to our lives.
Love, Carla and Moose
Please, come in and feel at ease….
My goal and mission is to provide you with a comforting place during a very difficult time.
I will personally ensure that your pet is treated with respect and dignity.
Transportation provided from your home or veterinarian’s office.
Cremations performed on premises at my Bridgeville location.
Large selection of urns and remembrances.
442 Washington Avenue Bridgeville, PA 15017 412-220-7800
www.ccpc.ws
