On July 24, pets and their owners came to Windber Recreation Park for the 11th annual Pet Therapy Day. The event, which was supported in part by the 1889 Foundation, raised money for animal shelters and pet therapy initiatives across the county.
Organizer Christine Fogle, who takes her dogs Gracie and Mahlah to hospitals, nursing care facilities and schools, believes emotional support and love from a certified therapy dog can make a huge difference. She estimates 10-15 pet therapists and therapy dog teams (like the dogs pictured above) are active in the area.
“I believe that pet therapy gives hope, love, comfort, and acceptance to those who may not feel that they have those things in their lives,” Fogle says.
Guests enjoyed music from Running Free and Jeff Perigo & Friends, and dog tricks presented by Beaghan the border collie and his owner, Eric Shawley.
Proceeds from the day exceeded $5,300, and will benefit the following organizations:
- P.A.W.S House
- Habitat for Hounds
- The Ethel Fund
- Nardecchia Spay/Neuter Fund
- Service Dogs by Warren Retrievers
- Humane Society of Cambria County
- Humane Society of Somerset County
- Somerset County Sheriff Tactical Search Team
- The Proper Pit Bull
- Somerset County CART Team
- Cambria County CART Team
- St. Mark’s Pet Food Pantry; Trap Spay/Neuter Return
