Tarentum animal rescue partners with O'Hara recovery center to tout benefit of pets, host public adoption

A Tarentum pet rescue is partnering with an O’Hara drug and alcohol recovery center to raise awareness of the emotional benefits of four-legged friends.

Paws Across Pittsburgh and DreamLife Recovery are planning an adoption event open to the public.

“From addiction rehabilitation to overcoming mental health challenges, we understand the profound impact pets have on people,” said DreamLife Vice President Lidice Morales.

“Through our pet-friendly programming, the center has seen firsthand the benefits of pet therapy, including better emotional management and improved physical well-being.”

The event will be from 10 a.m. to noon April 14 at DreamLife’s partial hospitalization facility in RIDC Park.

DreamLife specializes in trauma-informed treatment for addiction. It is marking its fifth anniversary by partnering with the Tarentum nonprofit.

Morales said the group’s holistic approach provides pet-friendly facilities and allows patients to have their animals with them during recovery because of the therapeutic benefits.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, there is some science to back that claim.

Pets can increase exercise, socialization and time outdoors, according to the CDC website. In turn, walking or playing with pets can decrease blood pressure and cholesterol as well as loneliness and depression.

Paws Across Pittsburgh, housed along East Sixth Avenue, was founded in Springdale in 2016 before moving to Tarentum. The foster-based rescue finds homes for abused or unwanted dogs and cats. It is run 100% by volunteers who have placed more than 6,000 dogs and cats in eight years.

President Jackie Armour said rescue and rehab are similar in that both are about second chances.

“We appreciate DreamLife Recovery and their dedication to keeping owners and their pets together during treatment,” Armour said. “We wholeheartedly believe that the bond between owner and pet is like no other.”

During the April event, Paws will showcase foster dogs that need homes. Anyone interested can interact with the potential pets to see whether they’re a match. There will be treats and giveaways donated by local businesses.

“This collaboration not only highlights our commitment to keeping owners and pets together during times of transition but also emphasizes our shared dedication to providing support and care for those in need, whether they have two legs or four,” Morales said.