WE HELP PETS FIND HAPPY HOMES

Pets Come First is a 501c (3) non-profit, non-euthanasia organization. Our mission is to facilitate the placement of stray and unwanted animals into loving homes. We are dedicated to ensuring responsible shelter management within our community, working together to eliminate the critical overpopulation of homeless, stray and abused animals. Educating our community on the importance of spaying and neutering all animals will decrease the number of surrendered and unwanted animals to area shelters and rescue groups. We work in partnership with other rescues, local & state police, Humane Officers, and Dog Law Enforcement Officers to provide monetary and voluntary resources to support and sponsor local animal programs within our community. We will offer emergency placement, food, and medical services for the pets of approved and responsible low-income families and senior citizens.

Founded in 2005, Pets Come First (PCF) quickly began working with the Centre Hall PSPCA located on General Potter Highway. In less than 3 years PCF was able to help the shelter transform from an 87% euthanasia rate to no-kill in 2008. In 2010, PCF was offered to take over running the shelter and in 2012 signed a 2 year lease that would lead to official ownership of the facility and property in 2015. Adoptions have continued to increase every year, and over 600 animals annually are adopted into their new homes.

Through the years, PCF has worked closely with a variety of other organizations – in 2009 the partnership with the Hundred Cat Foundation began developing TNR programs, and currently utilizes the house on the property. In 2016 PCF partnered with the Animal Welfare Council (Allegheny Spay and Neuter Clinic) to offer a satellite clinic location for low cost spay and neuter also located in the house on the property.  The satellite clinic has relocated in Centre Hall, but PCF continues a close relationship selling vouchers for a discounted rate.

PCF is run by a dedicated group of paid staff and volunteers committed to the daily care of the animals. Receiving no government funding, PCF relies on adoption fees, fundraisers, and donations to support the daily requirements of running the shelter and caring for the animals.

Pets Come First Board of Directors: Elena Gairloch, Maurie Kelly and Deborah Zimmerman

Disclaimer
PA law requires all registered charities to print the following notice on every printed solicitation or written confirmation: “The official registration and financial information of Pets Come First may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling toll-free, within Pennsylvania, 1-800-732-0999. Registration does not imply endorsement.”