Humane Animal Rescue of Pittsburgh (HARP) is partnering with Best Friends Animal Society, a leading animal welfare organization, for the sixth National Adoption Weekend. From Friday, September 15 to Sunday, September 17, HARP will waive adoption fees for animals of all ages to encourage adoptions of pets that are being cared for at the organization’s two domestic shelters. All animals are spayed or neutered, microchipped, given vaccinations appropriate for their age at the time of adoption, and given flea/tick protection. In addition, dogs 6 months or older are tested for heartworm.

HARP currently has an abundance of adoptable pets, with more than 200 animals in its care. A number of factors are contributing to this growing number; from the drop in adoptions after the high demand experienced during the pandemic, financial and housing challenges facing many families, to spay and neuter services interrupted by the pandemic. No matter the reason, the need for adopters and foster homes is greater now than ever.

This weekend’s adoptions are being generously sponsored locally by Fragasso Advisors. “As animal lovers, finding homes for animals is a cause that is so important to us here at Fragasso Advisors,” said Christine Robinette, executive vice president, Fragasso Advisors. “We are proud to support HARP in their efforts to find more animals forever homes.”

Know Before You Go!

• To adopt, please arrive by 3 pm on Sunday, September 17th. The line to adopt will stop at 3 pm.
• You may only “meet” two (2) dogs.
  • If you’d like to meet more dogs, you will have to take another number and go to the back of the line.
• Interested in an animal that’s in a foster home? Speak with our adoptions team!
• Guests may only adopt one (1) animal.
• If you have another dog at home, we’ll schedule a “meet-and-greet” at the shelter with your new, potential furry friend.
• If your chosen furry friend is not available to go home today, staff will let you know which day you can pick up your new furry friend.

Adoption Guidelines:

• A valid form of photo ID (adopters must be 18 years or older)
• If you rent, we encourage you to talk with your landlord about bringing home a pet. If pets are permitted, verify with your landlord if there are breed or species restrictions.
• We encourage all individuals who will be in regular contact with your new pet meet before you take the pet home!
• Out-of-state adopters need to obtain a health certificate and to call to confirm that a vet is present to provide one before coming to adopt.
• Before coming to adopt please check your county’s dog licensing requirements.