Lower Burrell event promotes rescuing animals, showcases pets looking for homes

New Kensington’s Rick Ellis spent part of his Sunday afternoon sprawled out in Kotecki Memorial Park, lavishing love on adoptable dogs from Animal Protectors of Allegheny Valley.

Ellis, a volunteer at the New Kensington shelter, tussled with an Australian Cattle Dog-Beagle mix named Mogie and talked up the benefits of rescuing animals.

“We obviously encourage adoption,” he said.

Ellis’ group was one of many vying for people’s time and money during the Rally for Rescues event at the park on Wildlife Lodge Road in Lower Burrell.

The festival-like atmosphere drew a steady stream of people, some of them meandering through the wooded park with their own pets and some visiting in hopes of taking home a new furry friend.

There were dozens of booths with crafts, animal-themed art, pet treats, bandanas and information on fostering dogs and cats. Local animal rescues showed off adoptable pets and there were live bands and many food trucks.

Admission costs were donated back to the participating rescue organizations.

Freeport’s Paul Selvaggio brought his nine-month-old Boxer mix named Trace to get the dog’s nails trimmed. Neil Johnson of Allegheny Township, a volunteer with the Great Pyrenees Club, walked a rescue named Luna through the event. The 100-pound dog could double for a bear and drew lots of attention.

Katie Sheehan and Dawn Severa, volunteers from Tarentum-based Paws Across Pittsburgh, showcased a three-year-old Pocket Pitbull named Micah who is looking for a home.

The foster-based group rescues, rehabs and finds permanent homes for abused or unwanted dogs and cats from the tri-state area.

They also offer a pantry once a month and other services for pet owners in need.

“We came out to network and raise awareness,” Sheehan said. “Micah is big and friendly. He needs a buddy to take him home.”