On Thursday, December 14, Humane Rescue of Pittsburgh, in collaboration with Armstrong County Humane Society Police Officers, South Buffalo Township Police and the PA State Game Commission, assisted in executing a search warrant on a property in Armstrong County. Nearly 70 domesticated animals were found on the property living in severely unsanitary conditions that included straw heavily soaked with urine and feces, inadequate shelters that did not provide the animals with protection and the ability to maintain their body temperature.

Officials had become aware of the conditions at this location from a recent investigation at another location. Officers received a tip that these same animals had been relocated from the original property to this location.

Of the animals removed, 30 dogs were surrendered to Humane Animal Rescue of Pittsburgh and transported to our two domestic shelters. Twenty dogs were taken to the East Side shelter and 10 others to the North Side shelter. Upon their arrival, the animals were evaluated by the medical and animal care teams.

Currently, the animals at HARP are receiving continued medical examinations and care and overall are in good condition. Some of the dogs have severely matted fur which can pose serious health risks to the animal as it can lead to skin infections and discomfort. The matting is extreme and restricts the dogs’ movements. HARP staff will also be working with several of the animals to help them decompress and adjust to human interaction.

As in many animal welfare cases, the discovery and seizure of these animals was in part thanks to citizen-raised concerns. If you suspect an animal is in harm, please contact Humane Animal Rescue of Pittsburgh at 412-345-7300 or your local police department. 

We rely on the support of the public to do this life-saving work, and to investigate claims of animal neglect and abuse.  If you can, please consider donating to these animals.

Our Shelters are at Critical Capacity

With the addition of these 30 dogs, our shelter populations are reaching critical levels. HARP has seen a rise in the number of animal intakes in 2023 due to many factors; no matter the reason, the need for adopters and foster homes is greater now than ever. In the coming days, these 30 dogs will be given needed vaccinations, spayed or neutered and microchipped, to prepare them for future adoption. HARP anticipates that some of the dogs could be available for adoption soon.  Adoptions are available on a first-come, first-serve basis and we are unable to hold a specific animal.