The Great Pyrenees Club of Western Pennsylvania (GPCWP) is an all-volunteer, foster-based organization devoted to the education about and rescue, rehabilitation and rehoming of Great Pyrenees and Great Pyrenees-mix dogs. Originating in the Pittsburgh area in 1985, we accept dogs from owner surrenders and shelters throughout western Pennsylvania, eastern Ohio and West Virginia.
Our network consists of a small number of members who locate abandoned Pyrs, screen adoption applications, perform home visits and transport Pyrs to our fosters' private homes. We finance all medical care, food and training, and our operating funds come entirely from public donations and fundraising activities. Between 2020-2022, our intakes averaged 58 yearly, and in January-June 2023, we rescued 31 dogs.
Our Mission
The mission of the Great Pyrenees Club of Western Pennsylvania is to help unite abandoned Great Pyrenees dogs with their prospective forever homes. We also provide information and advice for people who might be interested in adopting a rescued Pyr or who might need to rehome their Pyr.
Our goals
- To retrieve Pyrs from shelters or owner surrenders for rehabilitation and rehoming
- To accept Pyrs who are failed livestock guardian dogs
- To provide necessary veterinary care including current vaccinations
- To provide necessary neuter and spay surgical procedures before adoption
- To provide healthy and loving domestic environments for rescued Pyrs until adoption
- To provide socialization and training in foster homes to increase the chances of successful adoptions
- To thoroughly screen prospective foster and adoption applications before placement
- To find responsible, stable, safe and loving forever homes for all rescued Pyrs
- To educate prospective adopters about the breed and unique requirements for taking care of Pyrs
- To act as a post-adoption resource for all Pyr owners