Every year, the Humane Animal Rescue of Pittsburgh (HARP) places thousands of animals into loving homes, but now, its work and this year’s Day of Giving go well beyond adoption.
It’s a lofty goal, but a necessary one. On May 29, the 150th day of 2024, HARP is hoping to collect $150,000, commemorating a milestone of 150 years. The money will help HARP to continue its mission, which includes a pet pantry, collecting donations and a mobile unit that goes out into the community.
“There may be transportation or issues actually bringing their animal here, so our mobile unit helps and assists,” said Michele Frennier, HARP director of marketing.
Behavioral programs for dogs and cats who need extra training are offered at a discounted rate, along with wellness care, vaccines, spay and neuter. Adopting an animal from HARP isn’t a requirement. Anyone can take advantage of the low-cost programs.
HARP’s wildlife center in Verona will also benefit from this campaign. People can bring injured or orphaned animals for treatment and care with the goal to ultimately release them back into the wild.
“It is truly animal season, so our wildlife center has seen a great influx in all kinds of baby animals: baby squirrels, baby raccoons, rabbits,” Frennier said.
If you find those babies in their natural habitat but are not sure if the mother will return, experts say put a circle of grass around them.
“See if that gets disturbed. If it is undisturbed and the animals don’t look like they’re thriving, something may have happened to mom,” Frennier said.
HARP kicked off its 150th anniversary celebration with the “PAWSitively Pittsburgh: 150 Years of Humane Animal Rescue” at the Heinz History Center on May 19. Among the day’s highlights was the presentation of a special proclamation by City of Pittsburgh Councilman Bobby Wilson declaring Sunday, May 19 as “HARP 150 Day.”
PHOTOS: Humane Animal Rescue of Pittsburgh celebrates 150th anniversary at Heinz History Center
Donations can be made online at humaneanimalrescue.org/dog, by phone at 412-345-7300, or in person.
Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts.
Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW