Regional Organizations Unite to Support the 2026 Pawtumn Bark-A-Que

Regional organizations unite behind October fundraiser supporting medical service dogs for veterans, first responders and individuals with permanent disabilities

NORTH STRABANE TOWNSHIP, Pa. — Four prominent regional organizations are joining Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs to help transform lives through the 2026 Pawtumn Bark-A-Que.

UPMC, Range Resources, 84 Lumber and Pennsylvania American Water have committed their support as sponsors of the fall fundraiser, which will be held from noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 3, 2026, at Quail Acres Pavilion in North Strabane Park.

Their sponsorships will help Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs continue training and pairing highly skilled medical service dogs with veterans, first responders, and civilians living with permanent disabilities.

“Support from respected organizations such as UPMC, 84 Lumber, Range Resources, and Pennsylvania American Water demonstrates the strength and generosity of our regional business community,” said Brian DeLong, regional coordinator for Pittsburgh at Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs. “Their commitment brings greater awareness to our mission and helps us continue changing lives, one extraordinary service dog partnership at a time.”

The Pawtumn Bark-A-Que will bring families, businesses and community members together for an afternoon of fall activities, food, music and fundraising.

For a $25 admission fee, guests will receive:

A Cheplic’s Pig Roast meal with sides
Live music from The Next
A pumpkin to decorate
Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs swag
Unlimited playground access

The first 100 ticket purchasers will also receive an exclusive Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs hat generously provided by GSJJ. Hats will be available for local pickup only. Beer and wine will be available for purchase during the event.

Chad Tyson of 102.5 WDVE will serve as emcee and help kick off the festivities.

“The Pawtumn Bark-A-Que gives our community a fun and meaningful way to stand behind individuals whose lives can be changed by a medical service dog,” said Rachel Gochenour, development coordinator for Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs. “Every sponsor, ticket purchaser and donor becomes part of a much larger story, helping recipients regain confidence, independence and connection.”

Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs trains dogs to perform specific tasks based on each recipient’s disability and individual needs. These partnerships can help recipients navigate daily challenges while supporting greater independence and an improved quality of life.

Community members, businesses, and organizations are invited to purchase tickets, contribute raffle items, sponsor the event, or make a donation. All proceeds from the Pawtumn Bark-A-Que will benefit Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs and its mission.

For tickets, sponsorship information, or additional event details, visit https://www.medicalservicedogs.org/