Pet Connection, as we know it today, began using foster homes in 1993. In 1996 the process of incorporating Pet Connection as a non profit, 501(c)3 organization was begun and our dream of having a shelter was put into action by non-stop fundraising. In June of 1997, we received our Non Profit status from the IRS and in October, we broke ground on our first shelter.

Early May 1998 we were moving in to our cage-free facility equipped with cat trees, a washer and dryer, a couch, refrigerator, and windows for the cats to look out. At last, all of the animals in our care were under one roof making it much easier for potential families to see everyone in need of a new home. Also, the unnecessary stress of being in a cage was eliminated while the cats got the opportunity to adjust to life in a house.

 In 1999 we adopted our “Every cat/kitten will be spayed/neutered before leaving our shelter” policy. Kittens 8 weeks and up were receiving the surgery with a 0 percent mortality rate. We began to feel very proud that not a single cat that passed through our hands would ever go on to contribute to the pet overpopulation problem. This policy is still a major priority for us today.

 By the turn of the century we had increased our volunteer base, started to hold yearly fundraisers in the spring, offered discounted spays and neuters to local low income families, participated in many TNR (trap, neuter, release) programs for feral cats, and increased intakes/adoptions. Our role in the cat rescue field was well defined and the effect on the area was notable.

 From 2001 – 2003 we sadly began to see that no matter how far we had come, it was still not enough. Our shelter was overflowing with homeless cats/kittens and the calls to take more in far outweighed the calls to adopt. We discussed the idea of adding an addition to our existing shelter, but it seemed so out of reach. More money, more volunteer hours, more fundraising; could we really do this?

 Fortunately, drive and determination have accompanied vision at Pet Connection.  Our members again rose to the challenge and began intensified fundraising efforts. Within four years, enough money had been raised to begin construction on the shelter addition. 

 From housing cats in volunteers’ spare bedrooms, to operating out of a 2016 square feet cat rescue shelter, we have come a long way in 12 years. All of the hard work and determination have paid off. Amazingly, all of this was accomplished by dedicated VOLUNTEERS! Not one of our board members or shelter cleaners receives a paycheck. The “paycheck” for us is seen in the eyes of every animal we rescue from an uncertain, and, likely horrific future. We would love to have you join us in our next 12 years.                 

How you can help: Join our Foster a Feline Program,
make a tax-free donation, shop online at iGive.com
or volunteer at our shelter.  Please call
724-845-1803 for more information. 




  Shop for everyday items at the over 330 stores at the Mall at iGive.com,
like Barnes and Noble, CDNow, Lands' End and Amazon.com. 
Up to 26% of each purchase is donated to Pet Connection, Inc
It’s FREE, no invisible costs or tricky obligations.
Join now at http://www.iGive.com/PC