Hello, and welcome to your new home! Allow me to introduce myself. My name is Ellie May. I'm a  Peters Township resident, and my human is the publisher of this magazine. "Paula Pugweeny" happens to be my nom de plume. This pseudonym is a pet name my human likes to throw around. According to her, the name is derived from my ancestry. She has a theory that my parents could be a pug and a Dachshund. I’m not so sure about that. I think I may just be long-waisted.

Since you're new to your home, it's likely you're considering bringing a pet into your family. In light of that information, I thought I'd share with you the story of how I chose my human. 

I was working one of my first gigs at a local shelter. My title was Human Placement Specialist. My colleagues and I were tasked with identifying and adopting lost humans. The position included meals, room and board, and other desirable perks, but, frankly, it wasn’t one I really enjoyed. In my experience humans could be unpredictable and difficult to train. The last thing I wanted was to spend the rest of my life mopping up after one. On top of all that, I don't particularly like the way they make my paw smell when I touch them.

Nonetheless, I was anxious to arrive at my forever home. I was told during orientation that once I’ve rescued a lost human the rewards would be great. Forever homes were said to be luxurious, and we were told lost humans were grateful beyond belief. So much so that they frequently showered their adopters with gifts and high-end cuisine. Frankly, I wasn’t thrilled with the idea of sharing a bed with one, but I figured I’d get used to it. But I digress. 

I was working in the field with a couple of my co-workers when I first spotted my human. We very much enjoyed these outings as they afforded us the opportunity to evaluate large groups of humans from the safety of our crate. The crate provided open viewing, and it protected us from those humans who tended to get a little too handsy.

I noticed her right away, and she appeared to be looking directly at me. She had an odd look about her. You might say she was sort of moony-eyed. She was clutching her chest and swaying ever so slightly. I still recall elbowing the Chihuahua next to me and asking him if he thought we should get her some help.

She had a strange, high-pitched voice, that seemed unusual for a human her age. I later learned this disorder is known as “baby talk.” It resurfaces from time to time and, without exception, hurts my ears. I discovered I can typically make it go away by licking her face. I don’t really like doing that, but let me tell you, it’s well worth it. 

I interviewed her, evaluated her smell, and submitted the paperwork that afternoon. The formal adoption of my lost human took place the following day. The rest is history.

If you're considering allowing a pet to rescue you and your family, I've included below some local organizations that can help. Humans are a lot of work, but I can say without hesitation, they are worth it! 

All my best!

Paula P.

Bridge to Home Animal Rescue

Angel Ridge Animal Rescue

724-229-7053

Washington Area Humane Society

724-222-PETS

Furkid Rescue

The Puppy Connection

724-225-9898

South Hills Pet Rescue

724-622-0434/shpr88@yahoo.com 

Pet Search 

724-228-SEEK (7335)