Pittsburgh furry convention names Gray Paws Sanctuary as its 2024 charity

Anthrocon has named Gray Paws Sanctuary its charity for the 2024 Pittsburgh furry convention.

The White Oak nonprofit, which helps older dogs in the greater Pittsburgh area, is celebrating its 10-year anniversary.

“This is amazing to be selected as the charity for 2024,” co-founder Darla Poole Brescia said Wednesday.

Gray Paws serves as a sanctuary for senior dogs, provides foster care options and gives financial support for medical care, according to Brescia.

There are currently eight dogs living in the sanctuary, which is located in the home shared by Brescia and her husband.

“We rescue senior dogs, and they live with us for the duration of their lives,” she said.

Brescia, a Latrobe native who is chief operations officer for the McKeesport-based human services nonprofit Auberle, made her comments Wednesday morning during an Anthrocon news conference at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center in Downtown Pittsburgh.

Through the forever foster care program, Gray Paws Sanctuary finds new homes for dogs by partnering with humane animal rescues and veterinary clinics, Brescia said. More than 100 dogs are supported financially through the program.

“All the vet care is covered for the duration of their life,” Brescia said.

Gray Paws Sanctuary’s newest venture is its Love Your Animal for Life, or LOYAL, program, which financially supports about 40 families so they can keep their senior dogs, Brescia said.

Anthrocon begins Thursday and will go through Sunday at the convention center. Over 15,000 people from all over the world are expected to attend the convention, where people dress as human-like animal characters.