NEWS & EVENTS:
We are excited that we have launched our new website and Instagram page, @petconnectionsmagazine!
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.
Winter 2019, Volume 7 Issue 1
New business? We have you covered! Our directory listings for your business start at $99 per year! Contact our sales team or email us for more information on directories and advertising.
SPRING events are here!
Check out our event page this issue for Pugmania benefiting Southwestern PA Pugs with Special Needs, and additional upcoming events! Stay tuned for more event announcements on our website, www. petconnections.pet.
THIS ISSUE:
Welcome to our Winter 2019 issue!
We welcome Ease Animal Massage, Buzzy Photography, and O2 Derm Pet Topical Gel to our supporting advertisers!
We welcome new sponsors, Pets After Dark, Woof Gang Bakery and Grooming, Fix Ur Cat, and Salty Paws Pittsburgh- PA’s first doggie ice cream bar!
CORRESPONDENCE
On the Cover…
info@pghpetconnections.com
724 -292-7387
Rights Reserved | © 2019
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!
We are very pleased to feature founders of Pets After Dark, Dr. Caroline and Howard Swimmer with their beloved dogs, “Dixie Ray” and “Mable Z.” Cover photo credit: Matt Shuck. You can read about this amazing new - and much needed service in our area for after hours veterinary care.
PETCONNECTIONS QUARTERLY
PetConnections, LLC.
Our Human-Animal Bond section features a story about Among the Wildflowers senior Chihuahua sanctuary, and the wonderful work they do, run by Stephanie Mosco.
PetConnections LLC. was formed is to publish a high publication focused on Bond. We support local assist local non-profit people, to give back Pittsburgh communities.
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!
The Rescue & Shelter section features volunteer opportunities, kitten season and spring camps.
For all those new spring adoptions and puppies, our Behavior and training section covers successful housebreaking, in Potty Training 101, by Rachel McMichael, CBCC-KA.
Carla Mader, Publisher
Buzzy Photography, Photography
Chartiers Custom Pet Cremation’s Healing Hearts Pet Loss Grief Seminar, Animal Friends’ and CARMAA’s events are highlighted in our event section.
Blue Pearl announces their grand opening in Monroeville in our Pet Health & Wellness section.
PUBLICATION STAFF
Edward R. Moats, avian nutrition expert, revisits techniques for foraging and enrichment in The Foraging Plate, in our Feathered Friends section.
Mader, Managing Editor Photography, Photography Koladish, Graphic Designer Moats, Content Editor Distribution Manager Media Account Manager
We hope you enjoy these, and all the rest of the articles from our awesome authors writing in this issue in our Kitty Korner and Equine Affairs sections!
ADVERTISING SALES
Fran Sherman, Creative Director
Cristian Iancu, Graphic Designer
Robin Reinfeld, Director of Sales 412.780.2254
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.
PetConnections is published quarterly as follows: March, June, September, and special Holiday issue in early December! Our print copy distribution sites will be replenished every 6 weeks. Our online presence has always been much greater than in print with now over 600,000 impressions! To subscribe to your own personal copy of PetConnections, please contact us below.
of Sales, Pittsburgh 412-780-2254 | rrcd@aol.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Candace Curphey 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.
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!
DVM, CVA, CVC, CVCH
Veterinary Specialty & Emergency Center
Kristin Hermann
April Minech
Edward R. Moats
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.
Thank you for picking up this copy of PetConnections. We wish you a safe and lovely spring season with your family and pets!
Kristin Hermann
April Minech
Bernadette Kazmarski
Edward R. Moats
Bernadette Kazmarski
Dr. Becky Morrow, DVM
Rachel McMichael CBCC-KA
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!
Pittsburgh Veterinary Specialty & Emergency Center
Thank you for picking up this copy of PetConnections.
Warmly,
Warmly,
Carla Mader Publisher Carla Mader PublisherPlease submit any correspondence to: pghpetconnections@gmail.com
Please check us out on the web & subscribe at: www.petconnections.pet Follow and “Like” us on Facebook!
http://www.facebook.com/PetconnectionsMagazinePA
Pittsburgh | Central Ohio PetConnections Magazine PetCon Expos Please
Co-foundersMedicalDirector
You love your pet. It’s after-hours. You need answers. Now you can get them! Pittsburgh veterinarian Dr. Caroline Simard-Swimmer, DVM, and her husband, Howard Swimmer, a successful Pittsburgh business manager, launched Pets After Dark, a new after-hours veterinary tele-health service. Pets After Dark provides Pittsburgh pet parent subscribers with expert answers and care recommendations on weeknights and weekends, when it’s difficult or impossible to reach your vet.
How does it work? You phone Pets After Dark and describe your pet’s issue. The Pets After Dark on-call vet – who will be your regular vet or a local vet who knows them, pulls up your pet’s medical summary. They then conduct a thorough audio or video consultation and make an expert care recommendation. They’ll also arrange an in-person appointment with your regular vet the next office day. If during your consultation the on-call vet feels an immediate visit to an ER clinic is necessary they will call ahead for you, and with your permission will forward your pet’s medical summary.
“Pets After Dark eliminates the stress associated with after-hours pet concerns, questions and issues,” said Dr. Caroline Simard-Swimmer, who has been practicing veterinary medicine for over thirty years. “It started as an idea between my husband and me after a weekend of fielding calls
from distraught clients that had my personal number, and friends of friends seeking advice with seemingly nowhere else to turn. It became clear to us that pet parents were in dire need of help. Not only was their regular veterinarian having a difficult time providing a spot in their already busy day for a sick pet, but ER’s and specialty hospitals were under tremendous pressure as well.”
“Countless times I would see clients in the morning who had been up all night with their sick pet, not knowing if they should have gone to the emergency room,” Dr. Simard-Swimmer continued. “The thought of possibly facing very long wait times with no guarantee of being seen, not to mention the cost of such a visit, created yet another layer of stress. Situations like a pet with a painful ear infection unable to secure an appointment at their regular vet for several days happened too many times to mention. Pets After Dark is the solution to these problems.”
Co-founder & CEO Howard Swimmer added, “Once we knew our service objective it was time to build a veterinary office network and supporting tele-health operation. It doesn’t cost your vet anything to participate, and we worked with telehealth software and design experts to create a fast, easy subscriber experience. It really comes down to people. Our on-call vets are compassionate,
sensitive and skilled at tele-health consultations. The service is especially helpful before and after surgery, when managing a chronically sick pet at home (like a diabetic), and when welcoming a new pet. It’s also a help in less stressful situations. The on-call vet can answer your questions about puppy or kitten care, diet, training, behavioral issues and more.”
A Pets After Dark subscription costs $100 per month, with a 12-month commitment. Subscribers who pay upfront are charged $1100 for the 12-month commitment period, a $100 savings. More than one pet in your household? One subscription covers them all.
“The important thing with a service like this is to get it before you need it,” said Howard Swimmer. “Subscribe today. You’ll thank yourself, and so will your pet.” Visit www.mypetsafterdark.com to learn more.
MedicalDirector
Dr.CarolineSimard-Swimmer,DVM, HowardSwimmer,CEO,andtheir belovedpetsDixieRayandMabelZ Dr.CarolineSimardSwimmer,DVM Photography: Matt Shuck
Among the Wildflowers is a hospice and handicap senior chihuahua sanctuary run by Stephanie Mosco. “We pull hospice cases from various locations or they find us, and all the dogs we take in have special needs of some sort, either hospice or physical handicaps,” she explains. She has a storied background working with several shelters and rescues, including fostering. One specific little chihuahua foster – Arnie – set things in motion for what would become her life’s work. “He was found with a softball sized hernia, never altered and blind, dumped outside in Virginia,” she recalls. “We drove down to get him, and he became our first hospice foster.” Rescues are generally not equipped financially to take on end of life care with so many medical issues, so Stephanie decided to adopt him and provide the necessary medical and emotional care to keep him comfortable, giving Arnie another 2 years of knowing he was loved and cared for. Realizing she could provide that level of care to others in his situation, she formed her non-profit. That was 2 ½ years ago, and the sanctuary currently averages about 10 handicap or hospice fosters along with the house pack. “We’d love to have more space to help more dogs.”
“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 Petty
Medical expenses to provide proper care run high, so there’s always a challenge to raise funds. If you’re interested in supporting the sanctuary, Stephanie offers several ideas. “We make homemade dog biscuits and sell them to raise funds for the sanctuary and offer shipping. Details are available on our website: Amongthewildflowerssanctuary.com They also use washable everything, from pee pads and diapers for the dogs to help the environment. “With 5 in diapers, we do a ton of laundry!” says Stephanie. “We don’t want disposable things to end up in the landfill.” There’s an Amazon wish list if you’d like to send something specific, and many items that Stephanie makes herself such as wristlets and hand sanitizer covers. And don’t forget to check out the T-shirts. It’s all hands on deck too keep everything going.
Their second annual sanctuary fundraiser this year is on Sunday, April 21st at Velum Fermentation in South Side from 12 to 3pm. They’ll be giving away over 40 baskets at auction, a citizen watch and a 65” smart tv donated by South Hills Jewelers. And all of the fur babies will be in attendance! More information available on facebook coming soon. @Amongthewildflowerssanctuary
Among the Wildflowers
Sanctuary Second Annual fundraiser
Facebook @Amongthewildflowerssanctuary
Sunday April 21st
Animal Friends
Saturday, March 16th, Bow Wow Bingo
Saturday, April 6th Biscuits Bingo
Humane Animal Rescue
https://humaneanimalr1.wpenginepowered.com/ events
Thursday, April 11th HARP UNCORKED
Beaver County Humane Society
https://beavercountyhumanesociety.org/events
BeaverCounty Humane Society
Sunday April 14th
Tea for Tails
Southwest PA Pugs with Special Needs: Sunday, May 19th Pugmania
724-823-0784
Sunday, May 19th, 12:00 noon – 4:00 pm Gates open at 12:00 noon. Activities begin at 1:00 pm
Location: South Park Fairgrounds, 2100 Brownsville Rd., South Park, PA
Contests: Including Curliest Tail, Best Trick, and many more, plus the always anticipated & creative Costume Contests.
& Craft Show Food Chinese Auction
New: Kid Zone with Face Painting, Balloon Artistry, Games & Crafts
Suggested $5.00 donation per person to attend, children under 12 are free. Proceeds benefit Southwest PA Pugs with Special Needs to pay for medical & ongoing expenses for our rescued pugs.
All dogs attending must be up to date on shots, leashed and under owner control at all times. All dog breeds welcome to come join in for a day of doggie fun.
PA Pugs with Special Needs PO Box 580, Donora, PA 15033
Nonprofit IRS 501(c)3 tax exempt organization 724-823-0784 swpapug.org or visit us on facebook swpapugswithspecialneeds@yahoo.com
Quite often when I am consulting with pet parents regarding their bird’s nutrition, there always seems to be a series of questions that are on their minds. “How do I get my bird to try these new foods?”
“Do I remove their normal diet and offer the new food?” “Do I mix new food with their current food?” Personally, I like to use their instinctive behaviors to introduce new foods. And I call this method “The Foraging Plate.” Essentially, you are encouraging a bird’s instinctive behavior for foraging to tempt them to try new foods.
As a rule, birds tend to be curious. They spend their days investigating with their beaks. From chewing toys and shredding materials, to sifting through foods offered in bowls. This is called foraging. And it is this curiosity that can be utilized to introduce new foods to your bird.
Normally, a baby bird would be taught by their parents what is safe and good to eat. This is part of fledging. However, many times, companion birds are not raised by their parents. They were hand fed by a person. The problem with hand feeding is that a baby bird is not taught by their parents’ innate behaviors that can aid in dietary choices that affect our bird’s health. Therefore, we must use their curiosity to teach and introduce new foods into the diet.
Setting up a Foraging Plate is quite simple. I recommend using a small to large plate. (Depending on the size of your bird.) Basically, you will be layering foods on the plate. The first layer will be the food your bird normally enjoys. Often, this is seed. Scatter the food on the bottom of the plate. Next, place a new food over the first layer. And then another food on top of that layer. And so on. After you have finished layering, place the plate on the bottom of the cage.
The concept of the Foraging Plate is that your bird will be encouraged to move the layers of food “foraging” to get to their favorite tidbits. While they are moving these new foods with their beaks, they will essentially be tasting the new foods. By encouraging the innate behavior to forage, you are manipulating your bird to try
new foods. The Foraging Plate is also a good source for enrichment. Providing enrichment keeps a bird busy and they are less likely to exhibit behaviors such as screaming and feather plucking.
Other ways to introduce new foods and provide enrichment can be stuffing foods into a sterilized pinecone or an artichoke. Another technique used by pet parents is stuffing food into a small box. Even stuffing foods between branches encourages foraging behavior that can assist in introducing new foods to your bird’s diet. Take note of these ideas and be creative. By encouraging a bird to forage for food, you are not only transitioning them to a healthy diet naturally, but you are also keeping their minds busy and redirecting energy in a positive manner that will curtail behaviors.
Different foraging methods can be practiced throughout the day. Foraging is so much more stimulating to our birds than just throwing food in a bowl. I tend to use the Foraging Plate in the morning. And then place other foods in branches throughout the day to continue enrichment and foraging.
And as I have mentioned in past articles, always be cognizant that fresh fruits and vegetables can grow bacteria in a short amount of time. Fresh foods should only be offered for a few hours and then removed. This includes any uneaten morsels scattered over the bottom of the cage.
There is one last question I always seem to be asked. “How long will it take for my bird to accept the new food?” There is no time frame. Each bird is an individual. Some birds will immediately find their new favorite foods. While others may take time in determining what they find satisfying. The goal is to encourage your bird to sample healthy choices. The fact that you are offering these choices is half the battle. Be patient. And in time, you and your bird will be rewarded with many years of health and happiness.
Our camps provide children with in-depth, hands-on education about animal care and the Animal-Human bond. Register your child for a fun-filled learning experience soon. Spaces are limited and camps this cool fill up fast!
For youths of preschool, pre-kindergarten, or kindergarten age with a caregiver Nurture your child’s love of four-legged friends while engaging in animal-themed activities from story time to singing to art making. This special four-day experience will feature different activities daily, with visits from real-life furry friends along the way. Little ones will experience how to safety meet and interact with dog, cat, and rabbit friends in a joyful and playful environment.
DATES Tuesday-Friday, March 26-29, 2024
TIME 1:00-1:30 p.m.
NOTE Facilitated activities 1:00 p.m. –1:30pm, with the option of exploring the Adoption Floor and Humane Education & Engagement Center at your own pace
TUITION $40 per child/adult pair (for all four days)
For youths currently in grades 1, 2, 3 or 4
Become a gamer for the greater good during this exciting spring-break experience. Campers will dream-up and create all aspects of an animalthemed board game of their own – from crafting game-pieces to designing spinners and dice to imagining roadblocks, challenges, and shortcuts to meeting an animal-rescue goal. To inspire winning designs based on the real lives of dogs, cats, and rabbits, campers will visit with a furry friend each day, meet Animal Friends staffers, explore the shelter, and – of course – play loads of games about animals! The last day of camp is a game-a-thon for campers, including a special time for families to get in on the fun.
DATES Tuesday-Friday, March 26-29, 2024
TIME 1:00-4:00 p.m.
TUITION $155 per camper
Our 2024 Summer Camps and Mini Apprenticeship schedule will be posted to ThinkingOutsideTheCage.org/Camps on Tuesday, April 2. Online registration will open on Tuesday, April 16. We have opportunities for youths ages 3-17.
562 Camp Horne Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15237
412.847.7000
ThinkingOutsideTheCage.org
My family adopted a puppy from a rescue last August. He was almost 12 weeks old at the time and the rescue told me he had zero clue on potty training. In fact, they said he lived outside prior and that he just went to the bathroom wherever. The first few days in the house were rough. Even though I’ve worked with many clients and many dogs on housebreaking, working with my own puppy was not without its challenges. I pretty much always have a supply of enzymatic cleaners under the kitchen sink, and those first couple weeks really put them to the test. It seemed my puppy had to pee every twenty minutes. I began wondering if there wasn’t something medically wrong with him. The truth was, he was just a puppy, trying to figure out his new world and doing the absolute best he could. On the third week, it all came together for him and I don’t believe he has had an accident since then.
Potty training is an essential aspect of dog ownership. It is a process that requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. But how did I get this confused puppy from peeing every twenty minutes to being completely housebroken in less than 3 weeks?
The most crucial factor was management. If I was unable to watch the pup closely, he was either in a crate or puppy pen. Some of the time he may have even been leashed to me. He did not have full access to the entire home at any time. If I were in a room, we would be gated in that one room together. He could not wonder off this way. I could also then watch if he were to indicate having to go, which often looked like sniffing, circling, pacing around or whining for him. By keeping a close eye on him, I was able to catch on to what signs he may give when he has to potty, then get him outside quickly. Supervision helps prevent accidents and form appropriate bathroom habits. I also made sure to come home throughout the day for potty breaks. If you are working a long day, having a dog walker, friend or family come in and give your dog a potty break is ideal.
I stayed consistent. Consistency is key when it comes to potty training. Establishing a routine helps your dog in many ways. For puppies, they often have to go out after they eat, sleep, or play – which means they need to go out a lot! I took the pup out every hour sometimes. Set specific times for bathroom breaks, just as you would for their mealtimes or bedtime. When it is time for a potty break, take them to the designated area and patiently wait for them to do their business. Play or exploration outside can wait until after they’ve eliminated. When they do go, praise, and offer a small but valuable treat immediately following their elimination. You do not want to wait until you get back inside to reward them. You may be going out a lot, but trust that it will get better the more they get it right.
Accidents are bound to happen during the potty-training process. If you catch your dog having an accident indoors, interrupt them calmly and gently, then take them to the appropriate spot immediately.
Never scold or punish your pup in any way if they have an accident in front of you. Doing so may result in your pup or dog wandering away from you to potty elsewhere. They may then feel anxious or that you are no longer safe to eliminate in front of – which can really hinder the process. Similarly, if you find that your pup had an accident earlier you really should not punish them for it. Chances are, they’ve already moved on and will not be able to relate the punishment to the accident. Be sure to clean up any mess thoroughly using an enzymatic cleaner, as it should aid in preventing repeat accidents.
Be patient with your dog. When they are struggling with housebreaking, it isn’t just stressful for you, this is hard and stressful for them too. Give them grace. Potty training is truly a journey that requires time, patience, and consistency. Remember, every dog is unique, so be prepared to adjust things as needed to meet their individual needs. With time, dedication, and love, you’ll soon celebrate the joyous moment when your dog becomes fully housebroken.
Help us keep the cat population under control as we wade through the tides of
Help us keep the cat population under control as we wade through the tides of Kitten Season, bring your feline friends to get Spayed/Neutered at BCHS. Kitten Season, bring your feline friends to get Spayed/Neutered at BCHS.
Here at BCHS we offer a Low-Cost Spay/Neuter Program.
Here at BCHS we offer a Low-Cost Spay/Neuter Program. Appointments are available weekly! Our packages range from Appointments are available weekly! Our packages range from $50 for a Basic Feral Cat package to an all inclusive $150 package for an $50 for a Basic Feral Cat package to an all inclusive $150 package for an Owned Cat which includes surgery, vaccines, microchip, FELV/FIV Test, and Owned Cat which includes surgery, vaccines, microchip, FELV/FIV Test, and flea preventative. flea preventative.
All packages include the cost of the spay/neuter surgery and All include the cost the spay/neuter surgery and a one year Rabies Vaccination. a one year Rabies Vaccination.
If you are interested in learning more about our
If you are interested in learning more about our Low-Cost Spay/Neuter Program please scan the QR code. Low-Cost Spay/Neuter Program please scan the QR code.
BluePearl Pittsburgh, formerly BluePearl PVSEC, has some exciting news! In addition to our new hospitals’ name, BluePearl Pittsburgh North, and BluePearl Pittsburgh South, we are excited to announce the opening of our third hospital, BluePearl Monroeville. Located at 4224 Northern Pike, Monroeville, PA, (just 13 miles from Downtown Pittsburgh), our newly renovated, 12,000-square-foot hospital will offer Out-patient Surgery by referral only. Opening March 4th, 2024, BluePearl Monroeville is equipped with diagnostic tools including a 64 slice CT, ultrasound, radiology, C-arm, ECG telemetry, and dedicated ultrasound suite. Our surgeon, Dr. Devin Cunningham, and the experienced team at BluePearl Monroeville will be performing a number of surgeries ranging from orthopedic surgery and fracture repair, to soft tissue surgery, tumor and mass removal, just to name a few.
Our BluePearl Monroeville Hospital will have the same computer network as the North and South Hospitals so your pet’s records can be accessed from all locations. Your primary veterinarian will be able to refer you to BluePearl Monroeville depending on the needs of your pet. Once we receive your referral from your primary veterinarian, one of our friendly customer service team members will call you to set up a consultation. Dr. Cunningham will do a thorough exam before determining the best medical plan for your pet. In most cases, you will be asked to fast your pet prior to your consult incase further testing or sedation is needed.
If surgery is necessary, rest assured your pet is good hands with our surgical team. All patients are monitored to the fullest before, during, and after procedures. A Surgical technician will go over all medications and discharge instructions prior to your pet going home. Although we hope you will not need our services, we are here to help you and your pet!
Be sure to check out the BluePearl Monroeville website for more information: https://bluepearlvet.com/hospital/monroeville-pa/
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
Leo is a BluePearl pet hero.
We’re bigger, we stand up, we don’t have our faces in the tub, the sink, the toilet (hopefully) or the floor. All these surfaces we clean with chemicals, and what barely affects us can have a profound effect on cats, in part because of their contact with it as well as the fact that they bathe themselves and may also ingest the substance. Cats are walking on the surfaces we’ve cleaned and absorbing substances into bare paw pads and inhaling the fumes.
Their bodies are smaller than ours, their organs function differently, and we need to keep this in mind when we use chemicals in our house. Bleach, ammonia and pine-based cleaners have saved many lives as antiseptics and kept cold and flu viruses from spreading but much of the time they are way more than you need for everyday cleaning at home.
Vinegar as a cleaner
GLASS AND ALL-SURFACE CLEANER: Keep straight 5% acidity vinegar, white or cider, handy in a spray bottle or water it down 50/50. Vinegar’s acidic nature will help to dissolve residues on faucets, sinks and tubs and fingerprints left behind by sweaty or dirty hands. Use it as you would any “glass and all surface cleaner” to remove dirt from your windows, clean your countertops, and shine up your chrome faucets, clean marble, finished or painted wood and composite wood surfaces.
FLOORS, WALLS AND LITTERBOXES: Not just for wiping things off, use vinegar to clean floors and walls and anything else you’d use a bottled cleaner for. Scrub your litterboxes with it, but follow up with a rinse of bleach (see below).
Baking soda instead of cleanser with bleach
Baking soda is a gentle but effective abrasive that helps to dissolve substances as well as wear them away without damaging a finish and can be used on all sorts of surfaces including glass, marble, finished wood, laminate countertops, stainless steel and composite wood surfaces. Sprinkle baking soda on the surface and scour with a damp sponge, or make a paste on the sponge and spread it over the surface, let sit on residue buildup, then scour and rinse.
Rather than the caustic substances in most drain openers, the chemical reaction between baking soda and vinegar will quickly dissolve most of what might block your drain with no harmful fumes—vinegar is acid and baking soda is basic, and when mixed together they work very hard to neutralize each other in a fizzy battle.
At least once per month pour a half cup of baking soda into the drain, rinsing it lightly into the drain with a drizzle of water, then slowly pour a pint of vinegar into the drain, letting it fizz up and slow down before pouring the next amount. As the vinegar works its way into the drain it will react with the baking soda, cleaning residue off the insides of the pipe and working its way through the trap. When all the
vinegar is in the drain, simply let it sit and work for at least 15 minutes, or until you can’t hear any more fizzing from the drain at all.
Other abrasives and cleaning methods
You can also use regular old table salt as a mild abrasive in place of baking soda for cleaning pots and pans and especially cast iron, and include vinegar in this cleaning regimen to clean mineral residues and baked on food from casseroles with either combination. And another tip learned from my days as a cook and waitress—coffee carafes as well as other glass or ceramic containers with hard-to-reach interiors can be cleaned by sprinkling salt into the container and dropping in three or four ice cubes, let it sit for a minute or two and swirl around to remove all that residue with the salt as the abrasive and the ice cubes helping scrub, then swish around hot soapy water.
When to use bleach or hydrogen peroxide
There are times when bleach is necessary. After cleaning litterboxes rinse with a 1:10 bleach and water solution to kill parasites or feces-borne diseases, pour directly down the drain, let the box air dry then water rinse with a little vinegar to neutralize any bleach that might be left behind.
Use a 1:10 bleach solution if you ever work with raw meat and clean all surfaces and your hands afterward with an antiseptic unless you wear gloves during preparation.
Hydrogen peroxide is an antiseptic and used at the 3% medical solution will kill bacteria, fungi and viruses. You can use it in place of bleach for wiping down sinks, and sanitizing kitchen items and grooming or health-related tools like brushes and clippers. Also keep a spray bottle of hydrogen peroxide in the kitchen to spray on cutting boards, knives and utensils, let it sit and fizz until it’s finished to make sure it’s done its work.
And if you have a pet or a person who has a virus or contagious disease, as we learned from Covid precautions, wash your hands with soap and water and rinse anything they use with either bleach or hydrogen peroxide such as eyedroppers, thermometers and litterboxes and even the floor around the litter box, or wiping down faucet handles or other surfaces where your hands may have transmitted the virus isn’t a bad idea. Don’t ever use straight bleach in this instance, always use the bleach or hydrogen peroxide solution. It’s strong enough to kill the germs you need to kill, but not so strong that coming in contact with the residue or the fumes will hurt you or your cats.
Resources
Vinegar: https://www.womenshealthmag.com/health/ a31264367/is-vinegar-a-disinfectant/
Hydrogen peroxide: https://health.clevelandclinic.org/ what-is-hydrogen-peroxide-good-for
Last week I had an experience that most people will not have – I handled a rabid animal. The good news is that I had a high suspicion of rabies based on the clinical signs that were described. One of our community partners texted me stating that a previously friendly cat suddenly became extremely aggressive. I told her my suspicion about rabies, asked her to carefully get the cat into a carrier and head to the clinic. I made the trip down and pulled the medical record. It was almost three weeks prior that the cat was found with a badly injured tail that required amputation. Probably when the cat was exposed to the rabies virus.
When the cat arrived, my index of suspicion went even higher after I saw her attack the towel that was in her carrier. I donned my latex gloves, used the towel to cover her, and had an assistant ready with bite resistant gloves on. My goal was to handle her myself to minimize any exposure and to avoid getting bitten or scratched. Luckily all my years of cat handling allowed me to safely get her out of the carrier. Her back legs were not working quite right either, a condition that we call paresis. She seemed to have more saliva around her mouth, not “foaming” as one would say, but more moisture than was expected. Unfortunately, but not unexpectedly, humane euthanasia was required when it became evident that she could not be successfully treated. Rabies was confirmed by the lab.
the predominant species diagnosed with rabies in Pennsylvania. This is one of the reasons our state has been distributing oral raccoon rabies vaccine baits for over 20 years. Rabies is rarely seen in our small rodents and cottontails since they are unlikely to survive an attack by a rabid animal. Bite wounds are the most likely means of transmission since the rabies virus can be found in the saliva of an infected animal. If an animal is bitten, the virus will travel through the nerves into the central nervous system to reproduce in the brain. The virus then migrates into tissues including salivary glands. This, of course, is how the saliva becomes the source of infection when a rabid animal bites.
Rabid animals tend to be able to transmit the virus just days prior to the onset of clinical signs. This is what the 10-day quarantine is based on – a dog or cat that has bitten a person is monitored for 10 days and if no signs of rabies are seen the animal is released from quarantine. The incubation of rabies, meaning the time from exposure to showing signs of disease, is quite variable. In the three cases I have personally seen, it has been three weeks. There is a possibility that it could take several months, and a 4-month quarantine will be necessary if a cat or dog is bitten by a rabid animal and is not current on rabies vaccinations.
So how do we prevent this from happening to our beloved pets?
As you probably know, vaccination is the main weapon that we have against rabies virus. Once an animal shows signs of the illness, there is no cure. Vaccination is performed at 12 weeks of age in puppies and kittens, corresponding with the legal requirements in our state. After that, pets are vaccinated a year later and then every year to three years depending on the type of vaccine that is used. We also vaccinate community cats that come in for spay/neuter as part of Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR). This is to protect the cats and the community as a whole.
Which animals are at risk for rabies? All mammals are believed to be susceptible to rabies virus infection, but bats and raccoons are
If a human is bitten by an animal and the 10-day quarantine or postmortem rabies diagnosis is not possible, postexposure prophylaxis is needed. This is a combination of injections containing antibodies against rabies and rabies vaccine. Basically, until someone can make their own antibodies against rabies from the vaccines that were administered, the antibody shots need to be given. Even though I did not have any real exposure to the rabies virus while working with my rabid patient, I felt it prudent to get rabies vaccine boosters. Luckily, people who have been vaccinated against rabies before exposure can just get two booster shots a few days apart.
So, what’s the moral of my story? Rabies is a serious threat to both pets and humans, but it is also entirely preventable through vaccination. Prevention is the only cure so make sure your pets are all up to date with their rabies vaccines.
HQHVSN- It’s Not Just for Shelters!
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.
Session 1 - Apr. 27-28
Session 2 - Jun. 8-9
Held at Frankie's Friends HQHVSN Clinic and Training Center In New Kensington, PA (17 miles from Pittsburgh)
Free Hands on Learning!
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.
For more information or to register scan, call, or email!
724-889-7011 clinic@frankiesfriends.org
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.
Frankie's Friends
730 5th Ave.
New Kensington, PA 15068
724-889-7011
www.frankies-friends.org
beckymorrow.dvm@frankies-friends.org
Our clinic is located at 207 Allegheny Street, Tarentum, PA 15084. All appointments include surgery, pain medicine, rabies vaccine and flea treatment.
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
207AlleghenySt,POBox100203, Tarentum,PA15084,412-321-4060 http://www.homelesscat.org/
Pre-registration is always required, no walk-ins. Pleaseseewebsitefor registrationinstructions.
2024 January to June Clinics
NOTE:datesmaybeaddedand aresubjecttochange.
NO-CHARGE CLINICS— FERALS ONLY
January13:sponsorshipBarb Spelic/inmemoryofJeanneT. Richey
February10:Inlovingmemoryof MiltonLendl
March9:PawsAcrossPittsburgh
April6:ConquertheColony& TrashCat
April27:FriendsofPittsburgh C.A.T.
May25:CATSA/Samantha Ginsburg
June22:PawsAcrossPittsburgh
FAST TRACK CLINICS—$50 PER FERAL
January27
February24
March23
April13
May11
June8
Moredatesmaybeannounced anddatesaresubjecttochange. Checkwww.homelesscat.org/
clinic-infoforthemostupto dateinformation.
Charges as of January
2024
FeralsincludingFVRCP$50
Femalesincludingrabies&flea treatment$65
Malesincludingrabies&flea treatment$50
Allsurgeriesincludesurgery,pain medicine,rabiesvaccineandflea treatment.
Additional Services
Distemper(FVCRP)$12
ComboFIV/FeLVTest$30
FeLVvaccination$14
Dewormer(Profender)$12 Microchip$30
City of Pittsburgh Free Spay and Neuter for City Residents
Thisprogramistemporarily paused.Visitwebsiteformore information:
https://pittsburghpa.gov/ publicsafety/spay-neuter
Low-Cost Spay/Neuter Programs at Shelters in Allegheny and surrounding counties
Action for Animals
Humane Society
386Route217,Latrobe, Pennsylvania15650 https://www.afashelter.org/ low-cost-spay-neuter/ Calltheshelterat724-539-2544 toscheduleanappointment. Effective8/1/22pricesareas follows: NeuterServicesforaMale Cat:$60
SpayServicesforaFemale Cat:$80($30additionalfeeif pregnant)
Spay/NeuterServicesforDogs: priceperweight(call724-5392544forrates)
Animal Friends
https://www. thinkingoutsidethecage.org/ pet-care/spay-neuter/ Cats:FemaleorMale$84
Includesbriefexam,injectable painmedicationandane-collar –vaccinesareanadditionalfee.
Feral/OutdoorPackage|$75
Includesbriefexam,injectable painmedication,rabies,FVRCP, eartipandfleatreatment.Cats mustbeferalandinahumane traptoreceivethisservice. Traprentalisavailablethrough schedulingspay/neuter. Limiteddogappointmentsare available.
Beaver County Humane Society
3394BrodheadRoad,Center Township,PA15001,724-775-5801
https:// beavercountyhumanesociety. org/tnr-and-owned-cat-surgeryprices/
OwnedCat:Threepackages rangefrom$65.00to$150.00,all includeSurgeryand1yrRabies Vaccination(mustbe3lbs.and 12weeksofage),initialFVRCP vaccination,morewithhigher pricedpackages
FeralCat:Threepackages rangefrom$50.00to$115.00, allincludeSurgeryand1yr RabiesVaccination,morewith higherpricedpackages,eartipis mandatory.
ButlerCountyHumaneSociety
1015EvansCityRoad,Renfrew PA16053
724-789-1150
https://butlercountyhs.org/ clinic/
Freespay/neuter,*some specificationsandlimitations apply*,visitwebsiteformore informationandapplication
Clarion Paws (Serves
Clarion, Forest and Jefferson County)
CurrentLocation:11348Route 322,Shippenville,PA https://www.clarionpaws.org/ spay-and-neuter.html
Monthlyclinicslistedon website,submitanapplication
Pets:$75surgery,rabies,flea/ mitetreatment,painmedication, extraservicesavailable.
TNR:emailatclarionpawsinfo@ gmail.com
Humane Animal Rescue https://humaneanimalrescue. org/veterinary-care/spay-andneuter-services/ NorthShoreandEastEnd facilities:412-345-7300
FelineSpay/Neuter:$100
Includesrabies,FVRCPand microchip
TNR:$63
Includesrabies,FVRCP, AdvantageMultiandear-tip. Catsmustbeferalandina humanetraptoreceivethis service.
Humane Society of Westmoreland County 139HumaneSocietyRd,POBox 1552Greensburg,PA15601
(724)837-3779
https:// westmorelandhumanesociety. com/vet-services/
Indiana County Humane Society
191AirportRoad,Indiana,PA 15701
(724)465-7387
https://incohumanesociety.com/ Spay-neutervoucherprogram providesvoucherstohelpoffset thetotalcostofthesurgeryfor catsanddogs.Visitwebsitefor application.
Washington Area Humane Society
1527Route136,EightyFour,PA 15330
http://washingtonpashelter.org/ OwnedCats:$45includesbasic exam,spayorneuter,pain medication,rabies1yearvaccine, nailtrim,e-collar,earmite treatmentifneeded.
FeralCats:$45includes basic exam,eartip,spayorneuter, painmedication,rabies vaccine, nailtrim,fleamedication,ear mitetreatmentifneeded. Extraservicesavailable.
Low-cost Spay/Neuter and Veterinary Clinics
Theseareindependentclinics thatofferservicesonsiteduring regularbusinesshours.
Alleycat Spay & Neuter Clinic
15549StateRoute170,Suite10, EastLiverpool,OH43920 330-892-8985
https://alleycatvet.com/spayneuter-services/ Ownedorferal:Spay$60.00, Neuter$50.00 Ownedcatsbyappointment Feraldrop-offwithout appointment Additionalservicesavailable,dog surgeriesalsoavailable.
Catnip Acres
1159MorrisSt,Waynesburg,Pa15370 https://catnip-acres.com/clinic Spaypackages$65-$90,neuter$50$75,owned,stray,feral Allpackagesincluderabies, distempervaccines,fleaandearmite treatments,$5offwithaneartip. Otherservicesanddogsurgery servicesalsoavailable.
Fix’N Wag’N Mobilespay/neuterunit
(724)201-9413,contact@fixnwagn.com
https://www.fixnwagn.com/ Spay/neuterpackage$85-100(price variesbylocation)
Includessurgery,rabiespain medication,FVRCPvaccine,flea treatment(30daydose),earmite treatmentifneeded,andaneartip forouroutdoorcommunitycats. Visitthewebsiteforupcoming mobiledatesandplaces.
Feralwalk-ins$90
Includessurgery,extended-release painmedication,rabies1year vaccine,FVRCPbooster,fleaand earmitetreatment,aneartip, complimentarydoseofProfender.
Dropoff7:45to8:30a.m.at4284
WilliamFlinnHwy,Suite103,Allison Park,PA15101
Fix ‘Ur Cat Spay & Neuter Clinic
(RecentlymovedtoWashingtonPA)
222HallAvenue,Washington,PA 15301
Call(724)416-3265foran appointment.
Female$70,male$60,Ferals:$65, rabiesandpainmedicationincluded. Downloadandcompleteapplication, mailinforappointment.
Otherservicesandwellnessclinic available.
https://www.furcat.org/spay-andneuter/
Frankie’s Friends 7405thAvenue,NewKensington, PA15068 (724)889-7011 clinic@frankies-friends.org Spay/neuterforpet/feralcats: Neuter$65,Spay$75,includes rabies,ear miteandfleatreatment,pain medication,antibiotic Otherservicesanddogservicesalso available.
https://www.frankies-friends.org/ veterinary-clinic
North Hills Spay/Neuter Clinic
3967WilliamFlinnHwy,AllisonPark, PASTOL40-213-7353
OpenMonday-Friday.Nolonger offeringwalk-inservicesforferals
Pet/TNRSpay$56,Neuter$37,visit websitefordetailsandscheduling Alsoofferslowcostvaccinationsand basicmedicaltreatments
https://spayaz.com/locations/ pittsburgh-north-hills/
Penn Hills Spay/Neuter Clinic
1644FrankstownRdPittsburgh,PA 15235,422-244-1202
OpenMonday-Friday.Nolonger offeringwalk-inservicesforferals
Pet/TNR:Spay$56,Neuter$37,visit websitefordetailsandscheduling
Alsoofferslowcostvaccinationsand basicmedicaltreatments
https://www.spayaz.com/locations/ pittsburgh-penn-hills-pa/
Spay It Forward
533RughSt..Greensburg,PA15601
https://www.spayitforwardclinic. com/vet-services
Spay$105,Neuter$90
Includessurgery,painmedication, rabies&FVRCPvaccination,flea& earmitetreatmentasneeded. Additionalservicesavailable.
Low-cost Spay/Neuter and TNR Assistance
Organizations in Allegheny and surrounding counties
Theseareorganizationsthatdo nothaveclinicservicesonsitebut organizemobileclinicsortransport toclinics.
Cat Crusaders
Alle-KiskiValley
TNRsupport,rescue/adoption “CatCrusaders”onFacebook
https://www.facebook.com/ groups/721970658170977
Community Cat Network ButlerCounty
https://www.facebook.com/ CommunityCatNetwork/ Mobileclinics,TNRsupportand rescue/adoption
Fixin’ Fayette
TransportingcatstoFix‘UrCatfor spay/neutersurgery 724-600-9570
“Fixin’Fayette”onFacebook
https://www.facebook.com/ groups/404758481158215/
Fluffy Jean Fund for Felines (Washington PA) Packagesat$65and$85femaleor male.
CallFaithforAvailableDatesand Appointments
(724)941-5683press1
E-Mail:faith.b2@verizon.net
http://fluffyjeanfund.weebly.com/
Operation Spay/Neuter Butler,PA(forButlerCounty residentsonly)
http://operationspayneuter.com/ 724-287-SPAY(7729) operationspayneuter@gmail.com Income-basedspaysandneuters fordogsandcatsatparticipating veterinariansandmobilespay/ neuterunit.
Orphans of the Storm
POBox838,11878Route85East Kittanning,PA (724)548-4520
https://www.orphansofthestormpa.org/affordable-spay-programs
Monthlyclinicdates,workingwith localveterinarians
Spay/neuterforpet/feralcats: Neuter$65,Spay$75,includes rabies,ear miteandfleatreatment,pain medication,antibiotic Otherservicesanddogservicesalso available.
Pet Search
P.O.Box1653Washington,PA15301
http://www.petsearchpa.org/ Call774-228-7335forclinic information
SNIPP: Spay and Neuter Indiana PA Pets
Westmoreland/IndianaCounties, Alle-KiskiValley Lowcostclinics,checkFacebook “SnippIndianapa”fordatesand availability
https://www.facebook.com/profile. php?id=61550868595306
Stray Solutions Animal Rescue
ServingButlerCounty
724-290-4933
Sunshine Farm Cat Rescue 125CrollsMillRd.,SlipperyRock, PA16057 724-944-9822
https://sunshinefarmcatrescue.org/
Workswithlocalshelters veterinarianstoprovidespay/neuter services
Find Local Low-cost Spay, Neuter and Veterinary Care on the Internet
Searchableindexesbystateorregion
Alley Cat Rescue
https://www.saveacat.org/statelow-cost-spayneuter.html
Alley Cat Allies
https://www.alleycat.org/resourcespage/low-cost-veterinary-caredirectory/
ASPCA/PetSmart Charities
https://petsmartcharities.org/ adopt-a-pet/adoption-centers/ locator
North Shore Animal League
https://www.animalleague.org/ get-involved/spay-usa/
Spay USA
http://www.spayusa.org/search.php
United Spay Alliance
https://www.unitedspayalliance.org/ state-local/program-locator-map/
Emergency Veterinary Care 24/7
Avets Specialty & Emergency Trauma Center 2674MonroevilleBlvd,Monroeville, PA15146
412.373.4200
https://www.avets.com/
Butler Veterinary Associates
Inc. and Emergency Center 1761NorthMainStreetExt,Butler,PA 16001,USA (724)283-2345
https://www.butlervet.com/
Cheat Lake Animal Hospital 286FairchanceRoad,Morgantown, WV26508 (304)594-1124
https://www.cheatlakevets.com/
MedVet Pittsburgh
Emergency Veterinary & Specialty Care
2810WashingtonRd.,McMurray, PA15317 724.717.2273
https://www.medvet.com/location/ pittsburgh/
Pittsburgh Veterinary Specialty and Emergency Center (PVSEC)
NorthHills
807CampHorneRd,Pittsburgh, PA15237
412.366.3400
https://bluepearlvet.com/hospital/ pittsburgh-north-pa/ WashingtonPA
1535WashingtonRd.Washington, PA15301
724.809.2000
https://bluepearlvet.com/hospital/ washington-pa/
Daytime and After Hours
Urgent Veterinary Care
Animal Urgent Care Center 4201WoodSt#1Wheeling,WV 26003
304.233.0002
Checkwebsiteforhours.
https://animalurgentcarecenter.net/
Geary Veterinary Services
308BessemerRoadSuite300, MountPleasant,PA,15666 (724)542-4954
Checkwebsiteforhours.
https://www. gearyveterinaryservices.com/
Kalyani Indiana Emergency Veterinary Hospital
1540IndianSpringsRoad,BuildingB, Indiana,PA15701 7244712575
Checkwebsiteforhours.
https://kalyaniindianaemergencyvet. com/
Rivers Veterinary Urgent Care
560McNeillyRd,PittsburghPA15226 412-998-9030
Monday-Saturday9:00a.m.-6:00 p.m..
https://riversvet.com/
Safe Haven Veterinary Hospital
SpecialtyandUrgentCare
13085PerryHwy,Wexford,PA15090 (724)591-8393
UrgentCare:Mon-Fri8amto6pm
https://safehavenpethospital.com/ urgent-care/
North:
Greater Pittsburgh Aquarium Society www.gpasi.org
The Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium pittsburghzoo.org
The National Aviary nationalaviary.org
ANIMAL-RELATED
April Minech Custom Portraits | Pet Inspired Art www.ladybugdelightz.etsy.com
North:
Kim Lenz, Behind the Lenz Photography 412-983-0981, https://www.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 | www.beavercountyhumanesociety.org
Frankie’s Friend Rescue 724-889-7011 | www.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 | www.droopysbassetrescue.com
Washington Area Humane Society 724-222-7387 | washingtonpashelter.org
Animals Against the Odds Rescue/Rehab www.aato.rescueme.org
South Hills Pet Rescue 724-622-0434 | www.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, www.seniorpetandanimalrescue.org
Guardian Angels Pug Rescue, 724-537-3466 www.facebook.com/guardianangelspugrescue
Humane Society of Greene County 724-627-9988 | greenepet.org
PEARL Parrot Rescue, www.pearlparrots.com
Greater Pittsburgh Area:
Greater Pittsburgh Aquarium Society www.gpasi.org
Natural Inspirations Parrot Cages www.naturalinspirationsparrotcages.com
North:
AKIN Family Dog Training (Lilian Akin) 412-732-8091 | akinfdt.net
Greater Pittsburgh Area:
Happy Pets Training/Christine Flint 412-373-9583 | www.happypetstraining.com
Success Just Clicks, successjustclicks.com
Greater Pgh Area:
Upswing Canine Behavioral Services 724-213-2553 | Upswingtpc.com
South:
Dogworks Training Center at The Canine Club 412-220-8100 | www.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
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 | www.sydmorstables.com
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 | 724-695-7388
EQUINE TACK STORES
North:
Shady Acres Saddlery 412-963-9454 | www.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 | www.easeanimalmassage.com
Wholestic Equine & Pet Services 205-492-1000
HOLISTIC PRACTITIONERS FOR GUARDIANS
East End:
Judith Levy, Coaching/Energy Modalities 412-726-2659 | www.judithlevycoaching.com
South:
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 | www.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
Bactronix, 412-375-7886 | www.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 www.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, www.sceneryhillpa.com
Wags and Wine www.wagsandwine.com
Greater Pittsburgh Area:
Fragasso Financial Advisors 412-227-3200 | www.fragassoadvisors.com
J & D Waterproofing Home Improvement 724-746-8870 | www.jdwaterproofing.com
Matt Arch Foundation, www.connectarian.com
One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning 724-225-1644 | www.onehourair.com
OxyMagic, 412-781-4110 | www.oxypgh.com
Redford Photography www.redfordphotography.com
Susan G. Komen Pittsburgh 412-342-0500 | www.komenpittsburgh.org
East
Pittsburgh East Nissan 412-824-9020 | www.pittsburgheastnissan.com
Unique Home Solutions www.uniquehomesolutions.com
South:
Southpointe Chamber, www.southpointe.net
Greater Pittsburgh Area:
Judy Smith Team Realtor – Berkshire Hathaway 412-274- 7618 | www.thepreferredrealty.com/real-estate-agent/2242288/judy-smith-team/details/
Pinch Property Services 412-445-8550 | PinchPropertyServices.com
East:
The Getaway at Glen Highland Farm www.glenhighlandgetaway.com
South:
American Destiny Real Estate Services 412-983-2220 | www.adr-usa.com
Amore 877-716-6840 | amoreapartments.com
North:
Pa Academy of Pet Grooming, 412-759-7620
Rebound Pet Rehabilitation 412-508-2285
www.reboundpetrehabilitation.com
South:
Christ United Methodist Church 412-277-1096 | christumc.net
Westminster Presbyterian Church 412-835-6630 | westminster-church.org
Camp Bow Wow, www.CampBowWow.com
Locations:
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) | www.thedogstop.net
The Dog Stop - Sewickley
412-766-DOGS (3647) | www.thedogstop.net
Lucky Paws Pet Resort
724-728-1484 | www.luckypawsresort.com
South:
Fuzzy Paws Pet Villa
724-746-3899 | fuzzy-paws.com
Hounds Town USA
412-232-5285
www..houndtownusa.com
The Dog Stop - Banksville Rd. 412-343-1171 | www.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 www.doggoneawesomepetservices.com
The Dog Stop - Monroeville 412-373-3355 | www.thedogstop.net
The Dog Stop - East End 412-361-0911 | www.thedogstop.net
The Dog Stop - East: Strip District 412-315-7050 | www.thedogstop.net
Country Lane Pet Hotel
412-824-7991 | www.countrylanepethotel.com
Walkers Pet HoTail
724-327-7297 | www.WalkersPetHoTail.com
East:
Petagogy, petagogy.com | 412-362-7387
Petland East Side Village 412-363-PETS | www.petlandvillageofeastside.com
Greater Pittsburgh Area:
Asgard Raw Dog and Cat Food
412-408-3355 | www.asgard-raw.com
Baskets of Nature
724-831-9437 | www.basketsofnature.com
Dig It Collars, dig-it-store.com
Trixie’s Dog Fashions
www.trixiesdogfashions.com
O2 Derm Pet Topical Gel, www.O2Dermpet.com
North
Furry Family Pet Sitting
412-999-9524 | www.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
Greater Pittsburgh Area:
Nancy A. Ruffing, DVM 412-801-1071 | gentlejourneyvet.com
Greater Pittsburgh Area: Murray Avenue Apothecary 412-421-4996 | MAApgh.com
North:
Beaver Animal Clinic 724-774-8047 | beaveranimalclinic.com
Frankie Friends Veterinary Services 724-889-7011 | www.frankies-friends.org/low-costveterinary-services 724-889-7011
VCA Northview Animal Hospital 412-364-5353 | vcanorthview.com
South:
All About Pets Veterinary Hospital 724-745-5503 | aapvet.com
All About Pets Veterinary Hospital – Washington location 724-503-4887 | www.aapvet.com
Cheyenne Veterinary Wellness & Surgical Center
412-884-3162 | www.cheyennevets.com
Fix Ur Cat (724) 416-3265 fixurcat.org
North/South/East:
Pittsburgh Veterinary Specialty and Emergency Center, Inc.
412-366-3400 | 724-809-2000 pvs-ec.com
Blue Pearl t Pittsburgh Veterinary Specialty and Emergency Center
Greater Pittsburgh Area: Pets After Dark mypetafterdark.com 855-AFTRDRK (238-7375)
As Waldemar Seunig, author of Horsemanship, suggests, “ not all riders are born riders, “ endowed with “certain physical and psychological qualities at birth.” Therefore, overcoming the difficulties of obtaining the basic position of a balanced seat requires a conscious effort. Yoga has begun supporting riders by encouraging them to be supple and balanced in their bodies to become better riders. But Yoga and its relationship to dressage or training horses come together in many ways.
Dressage is Yoga for horses; it means the gymnastic training of the horse. With Yoga, the muscles loosen and balance the rider to encourage supple strength in the final posture. Like dressage as Yoga for the horse, the training subtly works out the horse’s crookedness and develops elastic strength.
Yoga makes the rider conscious of the stiffness in their muscles and helps any tight areas loosen and thus align so that the position required for riding can be obtained. In both disciplines, the tension is worked out, enabling the body to flow more effortlessly or, in the horse, “unconstrained.”
in its gait or movement. A good riding position enables the rider to share the exact center of gravity with the horse. When the rider sits in alignment, the aids are more clearly communicated, and the two anatomies can become a harmonious combination.
The correct basic position enables the rider to sit independently in the saddle. The reins do not support the hands, nor are the legs supported by the stirrups; instead, the legs rest in the stirrups. The seat can support itself, and the spine extends from the hip and the legs downwards. From an independent seat, the rider’s limbs can be effective without putting the rider’s balance of support, the seat, or the torso off kilter.
Horsesteppingundertherider’sseat“unconstrained” astheriderchannelsthehorse’sbodywithnoninterfering aids.Thereisaflowhere,notension.
The routine of balancing and elasticizing muscles as Yoga is for the rider, and training for the horse encourages elasticity in flexion. The muscles are relaxed while working. Neither a rider who does Yoga or a dressage horse should have muscles that are bulging lumps of constricted mass. Hours are spent attempting the posture in Yoga or the movement in dressage, and the pursuit of elasticizing and strengthening the muscles eventually comes with greater ease.
Acquiring basic position for any rider is attaining good body alignment with the ears, shoulders, hips, and ankles in vertical alignment. ** The rider should establish this basic position vertically to not interfere with the horse’s natural athletic freedom
This internal balance of self-carriage of the rider is enhanced by pursuing exercises that require centering thoughts and balancing muscles. Thus, self-mastery over the body is necessary for dressage or training horses. Finding that suppleness yet firmness of posture and alignment, first off the horse and later on the horse, is complementary to harmonious riding. Without this, sitting correctly on the horse will usually only cause more tension and miscommunication.
The reward for developing a correct riding position is that all future riding will more easily fall into place. The rider’s self-carriage will allow the horse to move unconstrained and be harnessed and channeled through the rider’s aids.
Yoga helps a rider acquire a relaxed alignment by removing stiffness in the body, which can inhibit a rider’s skill. As riders, we do not merely sit on our horses and be relaxed. We have to be effective. Our seat is balanced and goes with the horse, as each limb- legs, seat, and hands- independently influences the horse. We have all heard about being ambidextrous; well, the dressage rider, or any rider, must be quadridextrus or independent in all four limbs!
Just positioning the horse into a corner or on a circle requires the rider’s inside leg to be on the girth, the outside leg behind the girth, the inside rein positioning or bending the horse ( softening it in the neck) and the outside rein supporting the bend so the horse does not fall in. Each limb is acting independently from a balanced seat and upright torso! Each aid is doing something different. In short, all four limbs must be relaxed, balanced, and coordinated harmoniously with no tension.
All muscle groups must work in balance to achieve self-carriage for the rider or horse. Working only one area of the anatomy makes the muscles develop unevenly, which counteracts the purpose. For example, training a horse with side reins and not asking it to step up from behind is to overwork the neck muscles and not develop the whole horse working over its back. Similarly, the person who does the same exercise repeatedly without engaging the other muscle groups will progress unevenly.
We should be interested in mastering our bodies if for no other reason than because all our stiffness reflects on the equines we are riding. While trying to ride the stiffness out of the horse’s body, we contribute to it because of our bodily tensions.
Is your horse not flexing all vertebrae from tail to poll but instead a little behind the bit? Maybe it is because your neck and spine are not elongating! There is no doubt that Yoga and dressage or training horses are similar. Using Yoga as a gymnastic tool will enable the rider to find balance and quadridexterity more readily in the saddle. The eventual result is becoming as harmonious as possible with your horse.
* The word dressage means training of the horse. So, this article applies to all riders who train horses.
** A rider should sit in vertical alignment (ankle, hip, shoulder, and ears stacked vertically ), and the horse should move in horizontal alignment (
hindquarters, shoulders, and head in alignment). I often tell my students, your head is between your shoulders as should be your horse’s head. Too frequently, riders overbend a horse, aligning its head with its inside leg. As a result, the outside shoulder falls out. More weight is placed on the inside shoulder instead of the horse carrying equal weight on all four limbs. Another topic for a different article.
Nellie was found as a stray in the middle of PA, at 7 years old. She was scared and unable to use her back legs. We still remember the drive that morning to pick her up from the transport. She was so tiny. 4lbs tiny. She was so sweet and loving. We rode all the way home snuggling in the passenger seat, nervous about how we were going to figure out all the necessary things we needed to when dealing with a handicapped fur baby. So many unanswered questions but we knew we would give her the very best. Her eyes looked into Mom’s heart and soul. Nellie learned to trust again, gained strength in her legs & even managed to walk again! We found out early on that she had a heart the size of a softball in that tiny but mighty body. We started her on medication, and she got her major dental and lost all her teeth! From then on she
was known for her tongue that always hung out of her mouth. We took her everywhere with us and everywhere she went, she loved everyone. She touched so many people.
Nellie taught us that anything was possible. She loved every single day and loved her momma fiercely. Nellie was our first fur baby to have rear wheels and loved the freedom that they gave her. She zipped everywhere when we were out and had to say hello to everyone. She brought so much life to our sanctuary. We will forever be grateful for the 3 years that we had with her. We lost Nellie to heart failure right before Christmas of 2023.
Nellie, you will forever be our Wildflower Angel watching over us here at the sanctuary. You will be remembered forever.
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.
Providing exceptional specialty + emergency care for pets in the Pittsburgh community. We are caregivers and heroes, who are compassionate, smart and forward thinking.
Offering a full range of care.
• 24-7 Emergency Medicine
• Critical Care
• Dermatology
• Diagnostic Imaging
• Internal Medicine
• Neurology + Neurosurgery
• Oncology
• Ophthalmology
• Pet Blood Bank
• Surgery
BluePearl Pittsburgh North
807 Camp Horne Rd. Pittsburgh, PA 15237
412.366.3400
Emergency 24 -7
BluePearl Pittsburgh South 1535 Washington Rd. Washington, PA 15301 724.809.2000
Emergency After-Hours
Your pet deserves the leaders in specialty + emergency medicine.
BluePearlVet.com