Community Corner

Women's Animal Center Holding Summer Open House In Bensalem

America's first animal shelter will showcase its pet services Saturday. Kids can even read to a shelter pet.

The Women's Animal Center in Bensalem Township will be hosting its Summer Open House on Saturday, July 22.
The Women's Animal Center in Bensalem Township will be hosting its Summer Open House on Saturday, July 22. (Women's Animal Center)

BENSALEM TOWNSHIP, PA —Want to read to a shelter pet? Or learn about adopting a cat or a dog?

The Women’s Animal Center —America's first animal shelter —is hosting its Summer Open House on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at its location on 3839 Richlieu Rd.

The animal center was launched in Philadelphia in 1869 by women who were concerned about the manner in which strays on Philadelphia streets were captured and killed. The organization celebrated its 154-year anniversary on April 14.

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The free open house will showcase the center's pet services like its AAHA Accredited Veterinary Hospital, and adoption center, said Elissa Kratson, the center's marketing coordinator.

Activities include dog training demos, Story Tails: "read to a shelter pet", activity stations for kids, a 50/50, basket raffle, Saint Rocco's Treats, and a story time and book signing with author Erin Murphy. Bucks County Treasurer’s Office Dog Licensing will also be in attendance.

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The center thanks event and community partner, The Laurels at West Laurel Hill, which will also share information about their pet services.

Proceeds raised from the 50/50, raffle basket fundraiser, and author book sales/signing will support safe shelter, nutritious meals, and medical care for the shelter pets waiting for their forever homes.

About Women’s Animal Center.

In addition to animal sheltering and pet adoptions, the Women’s Animal Center provides a variety of vital services to the Greater Philadelphia region, including dog training, physical rehabilitation, behavioral and veterinary resources, youth programming, and humane education.

As part of its mission, Women’s Animal Center’s Veterinary Hospital provides affordable high-quality veterinary care to families in need, making pet ownership affordable and thus keeping more animals in their homes and out of shelters.

The hospital is among just 12 percent nationwide to be accredited by the American Animal Hospital Association. Contributions to the non-profit organization from generous donors and a portion of proceeds raised through veterinary service fees support safe shelter, nutritious meals, medical, and compassionate care for the surrendered and stray animals waiting for a second chance with a forever family.

The animal center is located at 3839 Richlieu Road, Bensalem, and can be reached by phone at 215-750-3100. For programs/services, to adopt a shelter pet and/or make a monetary donation: www.womensanimalcenter.org.

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