A: Paws Along the River is a non-profit organization that offers a part-time Cruelty Officer as one of its services. Paws addresses as many complaints as possible with one part-time officer. However, the State Police, Township, and City Police can and must enforce all laws in the state of Pennsylvania. If Paws Along the River is not available to take your complaint, we encourage contacting your local law enforcement agency.

A: As an Open Access Shelter, Paws Along the River provides shelter to all animals in need and provides what the laws dictate in our state. Because we are a state-licensed kennel, we are mandated to follow kennel regulations. Dogs are kept at a minimum of 48 hours. After this period, the dogs are quarantined for observation for 10 days before moving forward to evaluate them. This allows time to check for microchips, identification tags, and inquire into veterinary records whenever possible. All animals are provided with food, veterinary care, shelter, and proper attention. To determine adoptability, we do temperament testing. Adoptable pets stay in the shelter until they are adopted. There is no time limit. Be cautious when dealing with feral cats. They can be dangerous.  However, we are experienced and able to conduct behavioral testing. Strays can starve; get hit by cars, cause accidents, and hurt people. We are here to protect them and the public.