Rygar

Before his first birthday, Rygar had suffered through more hardships than any dog should in a lifetime.
Rygar was one of seven puppies that came to Animal Friends after being confiscated by our Humane Investigations team. He, along with four of his littermates, was found to have parvovirus, a potentially life-threatening virus. At such a young age, Rygar was already being forced to fight for his life.
Thankfully, Rygar was treated and made a full recovery. He received all of his vaccinations, was neutered and became an Animal Friends’ summer camp puppy where he helped to show the young campers about the importance of responsible pet ownership. Rygar worked with the students to learn manners and basic commands while teaching them about the important relationship people can have with their pets. Educating the next generation about how to treat their pets is a vital part of allowing Animal Friends’ lifesaving mission to continue for years to come.
After summer camp, Rygar was quickly adopted. Buta few months later, he was back at Animal Friends. His family was moving and couldn’t take him.
As tiny Rygar grew, he developed an extremely painful condition which caused his kneecaps to roll inward. Rygar’s case was severe and affected both of his hind legs. We set up a consultation and scheduled the surgery that would rebuild his knees.

After a successful surgery, Rygar went into foster care. His road to recovery promised to be a long one, but with the help of his foster parents, Rygar was well on his way to leading a normal life.
Several weeks into his recovery we received a call from Rygar’s foster family … they had quickly fallen in love with him and his foster home became his new permanent home! We weren't surprised, but we weren't any less thrilled for the little guy.
Rygar’s miraculous story is one that shows in so many ways the amount of compassion that goes into what we do at Animal Friends. Over the past month for 31 Days of Compassion, we’ve enjoyed sharing stories that may have brought a tear to your eye, but have no doubt warmed your heart. These stories show what is possible with the love, dedication, determination (and of course, compassion!) of our staff, volunteers and supporters like you.
You can ensure that the next animal in need will receive the same compassionate care as Rygar. Donate now.

Rose-breasted Grosbeak

A Real Beauty 

Rose-breasted Grosbeak

The Rose-breasted Grosbeak (Pheucticus ludovicianus) is a beauty to look at and to listen to.  Its colours make it one of our most beautiful species and its song is a beautiful warbling melody.

The male is unmistakeable.  You will hear him before you see him.  He will be in the deciduous forest canopy perched high up singing his heart out.  The song is a series of warbled phrases, somewhat similar to that of a robin.  He may be difficult to see among the foliage but when you see him, you will be astounded at his beauty.  The brilliant throat patch is a bright rosy pink, at times appearing fluorescent.  That is set off by the black head and upper back.  The white on the belly and lower back contrasts with these colours.  The white wing patches add interest to an already beautiful pattern.  The white beak is very large, like all grosbeaks.

Rose-Breasted Grosbeak

The Rose-breasted Grosbeak is here from mid-May to October.  It breeds in our hardwood forests and graces the landscape with its presence.  It is found in the summer in most of southern Canada east of the Rockies.  It winters mainly in Mexico.  

This large finch builds its nest  of twigs, grass and plant fibres in a low tree branch.  It lays 3 to 5 light green or bluish eggs with reddish brown spots.  Its diet consists of insects, fruit, and seeds.  It will also come to feeders, where it will feast on safflower seeds, sunflower seeds, suet, millet and peanuts.

The female is much plainer.  She is mainly brown with some white streaks.  She looks like a very large sparrow but her large beak identifies her if you look closely.  

Why we do what we do ...

May is 31 Days of Compassion at Animal Friends! To celebrate this very special month honoring our animal friends, we wanted to share a story that shows the passion – and compassion – that drives our staff and volunteers. We knew it couldn’t be told by just anyone. That’s why we’ve asked one of our staff Animal Caregivers, Becki, to take it from here ...

"I’ve thought a lot about that day in mid-September when the medical staff came asking for my help with two animals that had just been brought in. Whether it was a miracle or just another day at Animal Friends, I’m still not quite sure. I’m starting to think they are simply one in the same.
They looked like two sheep that hadn’t been sheared in years. At closer look, I realized they were dogs. Layers upon layers of matted, dirty, stinking fur entombed them from the tops of their heads to the tips of their tails.
Walking was painful. Turning their heads impossible. To ease them from their obvious discomfort one of our vet techs carefully injected them with a twilight sedation to calm them.And, then we went to work. For five hours we clipped and trimmed and shaved and cut. Around their muzzles. Under their bellies. Even in between the pads of their paws.
When all was said and done, 32 pounds of urine and feces infested fur lay piled on the floor. And from it two young Old English Sheepdogs emerged. As they lay on the floor – freshly shorn and looking angelic – they became our Michael and Gabriel.
The next day, I saw them out on a walk. I just stopped and stared … and cried. Such beautiful, silly creatures had emerged from a cocoon of filth and neglect. One of them – I don’t know which one – walked up to me and simply leaned his body into mine.
With big, soulful eyes, he looked up at me and I am certain he was saying thank you.It is because of that one look that I will be here tomorrow and the next day and the next ... ready for that opportunity to change another life."

Animal Friends is blessed. Our staff and volunteers are simply amazing. Becki is just one example. It is because of them that we are able to make such a difference and to be able to do what we do.
And it is because of you, too. Your generosity makes transformations like Michael and Gabriel’s possible. And now, through our 31 Days of Compassion, your gift can go even further.
Give now (before May 31) and an anonymous donor will match your gift 50 cents on the dollar up to $40,000. Every donation – regardless of the size – matters.

Click here to give generously.

Top 10 Reasons to Attend Bark in the Park 2016

Memorial Day means many different things to us: remembering those who have served our country, spending time with family and friends, attending picnics and celebrating the unofficial beginning of summer! With everything going on this Memorial Day weekend, you may be looking for a good reason to attend Bark in the Park 2016. Not to worry, we have 10 for you! What better way to start your holiday weekend than a beautiful walk in the park with your furry best friend?

10. Starting Strong – We’ll be kicking off the festivities as Mr. Jeff Jimerson sings the national anthem while members of the North Allegheny Color Guard present our nation’s flag.

9. Jim Krenn – Our lead walker and hometown funny guy Jim Krenn from the Q92 Morning Show will be leading the festivities and is always good for plenty of laughs!

8. Food Trucks – Come hungry and leave the potato salad at home, we’ll be joined by some of Pittsburgh’s best food trucks.

7. Patriotic Pup Parade – You’ll have the opportunity to show off your dog’s patriotic Memorial Day themed outfit. (Don’t hold back!)

6. Honest Abe – How many people can say that their dog has met Abe Lincoln? Rub elbows with our country’s 16^th president and pose for a great photo op!

5. Live Music – Enjoy the sounds of Americana as The Chiodi Trio performs for your listening pleasure.

4. Beautiful Weather --Have you seen the forecast for Saturday?! It’s going to be mostly sunny with 100% chance of fun! So get out and enjoy the fun-filled activities on a beautiful morning.

3. Make Your Pooch a Star – The top fundraiser will make their dog a “pup star” as the participant who raises the most money for Animal Friends will have their furry friend featured as the face of next year’s Bark in the Park!

2. Animal Friends for Veterans - We’ll be officially launching a series of adoption programs to thank and support our nation’s veterans and active duty military members who could benefit from the companionship a pet can offer.

1. A Walk in the Park - There’s no better way to kick off your Memorial Day weekend than a going on a walk and spending time with your best four-legged family member and supporting a great organization! After all, we couldn’t do it without you!

Register for Animal Friends' Bark in the Park 2016 - Click here!

A Change of Heart

The busy life of a therapy rabbit leads to many places. From visiting preschools, high schools and college campuses to providing comfort at hospitals, whether to a pediatric cancer patient or an elderly veteran suffering with dementia, therapy rabbits provide compassionate support to those who need it most. Our Therapets animals and the dedicated volunteers who work with them are always on the move providing pet therapy sessions wherever they are needed.

A recent visit to the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh in the Hill District left two Therapets volunteers with a heartwarming story and an experience they won’t soon forget.

A group of 20-25 children were enjoying the company of three therapy rabbits, reading to them and getting in some quality one-on-one time when three young boys came in and began poking fun at the group, laughing, taunting and name-calling. After being reprimanded the three left the library, but a short time later one of the boys returned.

He wasn’t there to tease though. Instead, he asked for a book so he could read to one of the rabbits. Touched by the boy’s change of heart, the volunteers helped him pick out a book and the young boy began reading to one of the therapy rabbits.

No sooner than he had turned the first page, the two other boys returned, this time mocking their friend for doing “kid stuff” and being a “baby.” The boy just kept reading as his friends were again asked to leave. But just a few minutes later they returned for a third time. The volunteers and library staff perked up as they walked through the doors and over to the Therapets area. But just like the first boy, they had had a change of heart.

By the end of the day, the three boys sat there, reading to the rabbits and enjoying the healing company a therapy animal can provide.

Last year more than 45,000 lives were positively impacted by visits from Animal Friends’ Therapets. With no shortage of a need for pet-therapy certified companion animals, we are thrilled to watch our program continue to grow. But this growth can’t continue without you.

And, there is no better time than now to give. An anonymous donor has set forth an incredibly generous challenge and will match every donation 50 cents on the dollar, up to $40,000!

Please donate today.

Baltimore Orioles

Orange is for Oriole

Baltimore Orioles are arriving everyday now.  Ours were first seen this past weekend.  

Baltimore Oriole

As soon as oriole season arrives we put out oranges slices for them.  They have travelled a long way and need quick nourishment.  At this time of year they are attracted to oranges.  The colour attracts them and the fruit helps them replace their depleted energy reserves.  This year our oranges were only out for 2 days before we saw the oriole feeding on them.  I have found later on in the season they no longer prefer the oranges probably because they feed mainly on insects at that time.

Female and Male Baltimore Orioles

The photo above shows the colourful plumage of the male oriole.  The female, of course, is duller but still shows some orange.  She can be variable in plumage.  The female shown above has considerable brown on her head.  Others can show more orange on the head.

Baltimore Orioles breed in deciduous forests, forest edges of parks and forests along rivers.  They winter in Florida, Mexico and the West Indies and arrive here in mid-May.  They raise their young here and stay until mid-August to early September.  They are known for their woven hanging basket-like nests which used to be found in elm trees here.  Fortunately they have adapted to other species of trees when we lost so many of our elms to Dutch elm disease.

The Baltimore Oriole received its name because its colours resemble the colours of the coat of arms of Lord Baltimore.  The orange of the male oriole is the most brilliant orange you can ever see.  Being set off with the black makes it a very beautiful bird.  No wonder they are attracted to orange!  Last year we had an interesting sighting which shows just how much they love orange.  We have a solar garden light that is round and orange in colour.  I watched one day as the male oriole landed on it and began to pick at it.  He appeared disappointed that it was not filled with juice!

Sadie's Third Chance

“Something’s wrong. She’s not breathing,” one of the vet techs called to the staff veterinarian.

The tiny kitten had been born just a couple months prior at Animal Friends. Her pregnant mother Sonnet, and nearly three dozen other cats, had come to Animal Friends after being rescued from a severe hoarding situation. Sadie had just escaped being born into an unspeakable life in a now-condemned house.

But now, Sadie was on the verge of losing the second chance she had just been given. She was nearing the day where she was ready to find a loving home, but first had to be spayed. She was a strong, healthy kitten. And, there was no reason to expect that Sadie would have a life-threatening reaction to anesthesia during a routine procedure. But there she was … not breathing … and her heart had stopped.

As quickly as the 2-pound kitten’s breath had stopped, our skilled medical staff jumped into action, performing lifesaving CPR. After a few tense moments, little Sadie was back.

Every day, Animal Friends gives second chances to pets who have found their way through our doors. And sometimes, these animals are in need of a third, or fourth, chance at the life they deserve.

Sadie was given her second and third chances at Animal Friends even before she was old enough to be adopted. She made a full recovery, was safely spayed and found a loving family.

It’s not just the extra special animals, like Sadie, who receive this level of attention and care at Animal Friends. We work tirelessly on behalf of each and every one of our shelter dogs, cats and rabbits.

But without compassionate supporters like you, it simply would not be possible.

You can help more animals, just like Sadie, get another chance at a healthy, happy life. During 31 Days of Compassion at Animal Friends, your donation will be matched! Right now, you can help even more animals.

Click here to make your lifesaving donation today.

Welcome Spring Flowers

Trailing Arbutus (Mayflower)

We all look forward to spring flowers.  It doesn't take long for the beautiful colours and sometimes fragrances of spring flowers to make us forget winter.  

 

Trailing Arbutus (Mayflower)

Mayflowers (Trailing Arbutus Epigaea repens) are one of those special spring flowers.  These are found in woods in southern Canada and northern USA and on mountains farther south.  Here in Atlantic Canada they are found in New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Newfoundland.  Blooming in May, their preferred habitat is cool, moist acid woods.  

Trailing Arbutus

The Trailing Arbutus plant is a low, creeping, evergreen plant.  Its leaves are oval and leathery.  Its stem is hairy and woody.  The flowers can be either white or pink and are oh-so fragrant!  They are tubular with 5 petals.  

I sometimes see these plants being sold at the Fredericton Market at this time of year.  That is a shame because these plants are slow growing and should not be picked in large quantities.  This activity should be discouraged.   Please do not buy these plants from local vendors, thus ensuring the longevity of this early spring treasure.

Yuengling's Story

Yuengling is a big, handsome guy with a playful personality and soft eyes that will melt your heart instantly. But like too many of the residents at Animal Friends, Yuengling’s story didn’t start out on a happy note.

In December, local police executed a search warrant while responding to a call of suspected animal cruelty. What they found was a German Shepherd that had been mistreated and neglected. Sweet Yuengling was also in immediate need of medical attention. In cooperation with police, Animal Friends’ Humane Investigations team brought Yuengling back to Animal Friends. Upon receiving a full physical exam, our veterinary staff found a cancerous skin tumor on his chest. Yuengling needed a lifesaving surgery.

Fortunately, Yuengling made it to Animal Friends just in time.

After his tumor was successfully removed he could start his second chance.

Since his surgery, Yuengling continues to recover at Animal Friends. As he continues to progress, his endearing personality (and love for tennis balls!) shines through … something that may not have happened if it wasn’t for our Humane Police Officers.

Animal Friends’ Humane Investigations Department serves as an invaluable resource to all of Allegheny County. While it’s hard to imagine, Animal Friends receives dozens of calls each and every day regarding abused and neglected animals.

Sadly, there are more animals, just like Yuengling, that need your help. There is no better time to give than right now!

Your donation will be matched!

Click here to have your $50 donation turn into $75!

Waiting Far Too Long

When you meet Marie for the first time, you’ll probably think what everyone else does… that she’s a happy and energetic puppy, no older than a year-and-a-half, two at the most. That’s probably because, while she is actually about four years old, we're not sure if she ever had the opportunity to be a puppy. Marie is making up for lost time now because the first couple years of her young life were unimaginable. She was rescued by our Humane Investigations Department and brought to Animal Friends after she was found abandoned outside without food or water.

With such a sad beginning, Marie’s story has slowly turned for the better as she has flourished in her new environment, receiving proper training, a safe place to live and play, and lots and lots of love! She has come such a long way from the frightened, malnourished, filthy from head-to-tail pup that first came to the shelter, and has developed a superstar personality. With her high level of energy, Marie is a constant source of laughs and smiles for the staff and volunteers who have gotten to know her so well.

Marie’s story is far from complete as she impatiently waits for a loving home. She has been waiting, in fact, for much longer than any dog with such a positive and compassionate spirit should have to. Marie has lived at Animal Friends for nearly two years.

While she receives plenty of love and all the care she needs each day, this beautiful girl desperately needs to find a place to settle in with a loving family to call her own. Marie is an incredibly intelligent dog with an abundance of love and happiness to share, with just the right amount of pep to keep her lucky new family on the move.

No pet should have to wait as long as Marie, but because of support from compassionate, caring people like you Animal Friends is able to provide a comprehensive, individualized approach for each of our dogs, cats and rabbits until they find the right family.

You can ensure Animal Friends' commitment to the animals in our care continues Animal Friends’ 31 Days of Compassion!

Thanks to a challenge from an incredibly generous donor, each donation to Animal Friends during the month of May will be matched 50 cents on the dollar up to $40,000! You can improve the lives of the pets and people in our region this month. Give a gift today!

Swamp Sparrow

Sparrow of Marshes and Wetlands

Swamp Sparrow

There is a sparrow that is well known to  seasoned birders but not to the casual birder, the Swamp Sparrow.  It is a small dark sparrow with dark streaked upper parts, gray breast, rust brown on its crown and wing, and a gray face with a dark streak running from the eye posteriorly.  

The Swamp Sparrow breeds in Canada and the northern regions of eastern and central USA.  It winters in central and southeastern USA and into Mexico.  Its preferred habitat is the edges of fresh water marshes, ponds, bogs and along streams.  It feeds on the ground mainly on insects and seeds.  

Swamp Sparrow

The Swamp Sparrow can often be located first by its song; a long single-noted trill.  Its call note is a sharp, metallic note.  When you hear either,  look around and you will find the Swamp Sparrow sitting on a cattail or willow bush near the water.  They have been back here in New Brunswick now for about 2 weeks.  The bird in the photos above has its crown feathers raised.  I have never seen that before and it probably indicates a bird alert to danger.

The photos above were taken at the St. George marsh where the Swamp Sparrows have settled in for their summer breeding program.  This is a species that is rewarding to look for.  Good luck.

Animal Friends' 31 Days of Compassion presents Corina

 


“But ma’am, your kittens …” a voice insisted, “… they’re sick.” After some coaxing, the woman  reluctantly handed over four very sick, very young kittens to Animal Friends’ Humane Police Officer. Our officer took one look at the kittens and knew this wouldn’t be our last visit. 

Within the week, we returned with a warrant and support from social services. We were prepared to save lives but not for what was inside …

The house was in total disarray. Buckets of human and feline waste, disassembled plumbing and walls torn down to the studs. Amazingly dozens of cats and kittens were surviving in the filth and refuse.

We quickly got to work. And, over the course of the next few weeks four dozen cats were taken to Animal Friends.

 

All of these sweet kitties were in need of immediate medical attention. Each one was suffering from upper respiratory infection (URI).

And, the condition of one gray kitten in particular, Corina, was especially worrisome. She was suffering from ear mites, malnourishment, dehydration and bacterial and viral infections. This sweet girl should have never had to suffer from these compounding issues over the course of her lifetime … let alone at such a tender age.

After she was treated medically she was placed her into a foster home. There, Corina would be provided much-needed around-the-clock care ... and learn what it means to be loved. 

Soon enough, this tiny kitten’s personality began to shine.

What an adorable, imp-like kitten she is! Bounding and skidding across hardwood floors when singsongedly called. It’s no surprise Corina loves to play. She is frequently found clomping around, entertaining herself with her favorite mouse-teaser toy.

Unfortunately, this tiny kitty didn’t come away from her past with a clean bill of health. She constantly has the sniffles. With the proper treatment we thought they’d clear up but each time we weaned her off of medication, her symptoms would persist. It was then we realized this tiny gray Tabby will forever cope with chronic URI symptoms. 

To some, those sniffles may seem endearing. To us, it’s a reminder of the mistreatment Corina endured. Had she received proper medical care her condition would have been prevented. And now she’ll require an extra special family with the patience and understanding to give her a home. Until they come along,we remain committed to giving little Corina her second chance.

Sadly, our region is full of pets, just like Corina, that still need your help. 

But you can ensure the lives of more animals will be saved from abusive and neglectful situations. With your support medical, behavioral and holistic care will be provided to the animals in our care. With your support thousands of pets will be given another chance at a life.

And, right now through May 31 every dollar you give in support of 31 Days of Compassion will be matched 50 cents on the dollar up to $40,000. Click here to help more animals just like Corina.

Please give generously. They're depending on your compassion.