Humane Animal Rescue of Pittsburgh is making M.O.V.E.S!

For nearly 150 years, Humane Animal Rescue of Pittsburgh (HARP) has been committed to the welfare of animals, pet owners, and the Greater Pittsburgh community. As one of the largest animal welfare organizations in Pennsylvania, Humane Animal Rescue of Pittsburgh is a trusted and caring resource helping more than 25,000 animals each year.

Now, with its new M.O.V.E.S. (Medical – Outreach – Veterinary – Essential – Support) mobile veterinary medical unit, and an exciting new initiative, Humane Animal Rescue of Pittsburgh (HARP) is able to reach more pets in need. The M.O.V.E.S. mobile unit is outfitted with an anesthesia and surgical unit, an exam table, a wet sink, diagnostic equipment, and built-in animal cages. The unit includes ample storage for needed equipment and supplies.

HUMANE HEALTH COALITION

In September 2023, HARP and Allegheny Health Network’s Center for Inclusion Health launched the Humane Health Coalition. This first-of-its-kind program seeks to keep healthy pets and people together by delivering high-quality, low-barrier care to Pittsburghers most in need. It is based on the CDC’s ‘One Health’ model of care which recognizes that the health of people is closely connected to the health of animals and our shared environment. As part of this initiative, HARP and AHN host a series of mobile community clinics across Pittsburgh featuring the M.O.V.E.S mobile unit.

HARP veterinary staff provides services such as preventative care/checkups, spay and neuter operations, flea and tick prevention, microchipping, vaccines, common medications, hygienic care (skin care, oral care, etc.), as well as transport to HARP’s brick and mortar veterinary medical centers for more extensive care.

These veterinary services are offered alongside human-centered health and support services. AHN Center for Inclusion Health nurses, social workers, and community outreach staff conduct human health screenings. Individuals may be connected with primary care, behavioral and mental health resources, and social services related to housing, transportation, and employment, among others.

Humane Health Coalition: Building on Strong Foundations

The Humane Health Coalition is a bold expansion of efforts that began with our partnership with The Street Dog Coalition, which remains a part of our mission today. HARP serves as the local chapter lead for the Street Dog Coalition, a national organization that provides vital veterinary care to individuals experiencing, or at risk of, homelessness, and HARP continues to actively participate in these monthly clinics as part of our overarching Humane Health Coalition initiative.

While the Street Dog Coalition focuses on addressing the needs of pets with housing insecurity, the Humane Health Coalition extends this care to people and their pets and expands the scope to a broader range of vulnerable populations, including individuals facing financial difficulties, disabilities, or other barriers to accessing pet care. By meeting people where they are and providing services directly within their communities, the Humane Health Coalition works to keep pets and their owners healthy and together.

HARP relies on the generosity of donors like you to sustain our efforts in providing essential care to both pets and people in need. Your donation directly contributes to the success of our mobile clinics and enables us to expand our reach to more individuals facing financial hardship and social challenges. Join us in making a tangible difference in the lives of Pittsburghers and their furry companions by donating today.

Questions? Email HARPmoves@humaneanimalrescue.org