Heart Of Glass Animal Rescue Believes All Animals Deserve a Second Chance
Based in Pittsburgh’s South Side since 2022, Heart of Glass Animal Rescue has a philosophy that all animals deserve a life filled with love, respect and acceptance. It is a haven for any homeless animal, no matter what their situation or unique needs. North Hills Monthly posed some questions to Vice President Amber Harrington to learn more about Heart of Glass Animal Rescue and its mission to save animals in need.
North Hills Monthly (NHM): What is the mission of Heart of Glass Animal Rescue?
Amber Harrington (AM): Heart of Glass Animal Rescue’s mission is to rescue, rehabilitate and rehome animals, inclusive of special-needs, elderly and behaviorally challenged dogs and cats.
We strive to provide a safe and loving space for animals in need while enlightening our community about proper animal welfare.
NHM: Who founded Heart of Glass, and what was their motivation?
AM: Heart of Glass Animal Rescue was founded by our executive director, Nicola Hill. She planned to run the rescue with her father and best friend, E. Bruce Hill. Unfortunately, she unexpectedly lost him to COVID-19 in early 2020, but he left her the funds to continue their mission and put their words into action. Nicola dreamed of helping animals since she was a child and worked at the Delaware County SPCA for many years.
NHM: Why is it important to have a place that accepts marginalized or difficult-to-place animals? Tell us about your ”open arms policy.”
AM: In Nicola’s past, she unfortunately witnessed many abused, neglected and forgotten animals in her line of work that the general public looked past. She didn’t see enough people fighting for them, and it made her want to fight for those “unwanted” animals even harder. Like these animals, Nicola has always felt like a “misfit” and has found community in like-minded individuals. Like people, animals who are different are just as deserving. Animals who have special needs, whether they be physical, behavioral, health or age-related, just need some compassion and patience, and someone willing to stand up for them. We are misfits saving misfits.
NHM: How can our readers learn more about fostering one of your animals?
AM: Our fosters are so important to us. They provide our animals a safe and secure home environment where they can let their personalities shine. They allow there to be an easier transition into their forever homes after adoption. Interested parties can learn more on our website or reach out to us via email with any questions.
NHM: How can our readers learn more about your animals who are up for adoption? What is the process and cost to adopt one of your rescues?
AM: Our available adoptable animals are listed on our website along with our Petfinder page. We also share spotlights on our social media. For someone interested in adoption, we ask that they fill out an application so we can learn more about their home, household and lifestyle to ensure the best fit for every animal and human. We love setting up meet-and-greets with interested adopters, and we allow a trial period in the adopter’s home to allow everyone to feel comfortable with the decision before making it official.
Our costs vary by animal type and age and can be found on our website FAQ page.
NHM: Are there other ways to help Heart of Glass Animal Rescue if someone cannot adopt or foster?
AM: We can always use event volunteers to spread the word! We always accept monetary donations to continue our mission, provide veterinary care to our animals and maintain our facility as a safe haven for these adoptable animals. We also have a Chewy wish list where you can donate supplies directly to our rescue.
NHM: How can anyone interested become a sponsor for your organization?
AM: We love partnering with local organizations, and we also give individuals the ability to sponsor an animal’s adoption fee and provide care directly to an animal of the sponsor’s choosing. We ask that anyone interested in directly sponsoring our mission or animals reach out to us via email to learn more!
NHM: What types of community events do you hold or participate in each year?
AM: We love partnering with local and neighboring communities. We have partnered with Lawrenceville Pride since our inception to feature our adoptable dogs in their pageants and runway shows. We love teaming up with local businesses and participate in many themed events throughout the whole year!
NHM: How can the public follow your organization on social media?
AM: We are active on Instagram and Facebook at www.instagram.com/heartofglassanimalrescue and www.facebook.com/heartofglassanimalrescue.
NHM: What would you like our readers to know about Heart of Glass Animal Rescue?
AM: Our open arms policy extends to people, not just our animals. We accept adopters, fosters and volunteers from all walks of life, and we do not stand for bigotry of any kind. We are an outspoken organization that stands by marginalized communities and makes our voices heard. We are all misfits in our own right, and we want everyone to feel safe, welcome and respected.
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