Dog parks provide numerous benefits for dogs and their owners. Heres a few of the most important ones. 

1. Exercise and Socialization: Dog parks provide a safe and enclosed space for dogs to exercise and socialize with other dogs. This is important for their physical health and mental well-being. Dogs need exercise and socialization to stay healthy and happy.
2. Stress Relief: Dogs can become stressed and anxious when they are cooped up inside all day. Dog parks give them a chance to run around and release their energy, which can help reduce their stress levels.
3. Behavioral Training: Dog parks can help with behavioral training. Socializing with other dogs can teach them proper behavior and how to interact with other dogs. It can also help them overcome any fears or anxieties they may have.
4. Bonding with Owners: Dog parks provide a chance for owners to bond with their dogs. They can play with them, teach them new tricks, and enjoy the outdoors together.
5. Mental Stimulation: Dog parks provide dogs with mental stimulation. They can explore new scents, sights, and sounds, which can help keep them mentally sharp.
6. Improved Overall Health: Regular exercise and socialization at dog parks can improve a dog's overall health. This includes physical health, mental health, and emotional health.

Off Leash Exercise Areas for Dogs in the City of Pittsburgh
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1.  Upper Frick Park 
2. Allegheny Commons Park (West Commons), Central Northside
3. Highland Park
4. Riverview Park, Perry North
5. Bernard Dog Run, Central Lawrenceville
6. South Side Riverfront Park (Referred to as South Side Dog Park)
7. Olympia Park, Mt. Washington (Part of Emerald View Park)
8. ​Downtown Pittsburgh, between Fort Duquesne Blvd. & Rachel Carson Bridge

Rules for Conduct/Behavior at OLEAs
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The following are rules are to be established for OLEAs. These rules and regulations are subject to change, being we have no affiliation with this entity, this is being service for information purposes only. 

• Dog owners are required to remove all waste.
• Dogs must be on a leash to and from the park access points.
• Dog owners are required to have voice control over their dog(s).
• Dog owners are required to always keep their dog(s) in sight.
• Dog owners are required to be present at all times.
• Children under 8 years are not permitted inside fenced areas. Children age 9-15 must be accompanied and supervised by an adult. Dog handlers must be 16 years of age or older.
• A maximum number of three (3) dogs per owner/handler.
• No smoking, alcohol, or food is allowed in the dog park.
• No pet grooming is allowed outside of established dog wash areas.
• Dogs must be healthy and at least four months old.
• Full immunizations of dogs are required.
• Dogs must be spayed or neutered; dogs in heat are not allowed.
• Dogs must display a current license.
• Dogs showing signs of aggression or defined as “dangerous” by City Code are not allowed.
• Additional rules are not precluded

Sunflowers are one of the most recognizable and beloved flowers in the world. With their bright yellow petals and cheerful disposition, sunflowers are a staple of gardens and flower beds everywhere. They are also incredibly easy to plant and care for, making them a great choice for both experienced gardeners and those just starting out.

When to Plant Sunflowers
Sunflowers are a warm weather plant, so it is best to plant them when the soil has warmed up to at least 60 degrees Fahrenheit. In Pittsburgh, this usually occurs in late spring to early summer. It is important to choose the right time to plant your sunflowers, as planting them too early or too late can lead to poor growth and low yields.

Where to Plant Sunflowers
Sunflowers thrive in full sun, so be sure to choose a spot in your garden that gets at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. Sunflowers are also quite hardy, so they can grow in a variety of soils, including clay, loamy, and sandy soils. However, they do prefer well-draining soil, and we all know that it can get pretty wet during the spring in Pittsburgh, so be sure to plant them in a location that is not prone to standing water.

How to Plant Sunflowers
Sunflowers are best planted directly into the ground, rather than in pots or containers. To plant your sunflowers, simply dig a hole that is twice as deep as the root ball of your seedling. Place the seedling in the hole and fill in the soil around it, making sure that the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. Water the seedling well after planting to help it establish itself.

Care and Maintenance
Sunflowers are relatively low maintenance and easy to care for. Once your sunflowers are established, they should only need watering during periods of drought. You can also fertilize your sunflowers with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to help promote healthy growth.

Pests and Diseases
Sunflowers are relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but they can still be affected by a few common problems. For example, sunflowers can be susceptible to powdery mildew, a fungal disease that causes white, powdery spots on the leaves. To prevent this, be sure to plant your sunflowers in a location that has good air circulation and avoid overwatering.

Planting sunflowers is a great way to add a pop of color and cheer to your garden. With their bright yellow petals and easy care requirements, sunflowers are a must-have for any gardener. So why not get started today and enjoy the beauty and joy of these wonderful flowers in your own garden!

Closing on a house can be one of the greatest moments of your life, but it can also be a little overwhelming. Once the closing process is complete and the keys to your new home are in hand, it's important to know what to do next. Here are some of the important things to do after closing on your new home:
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Get those Locks Changed Immediately: This is a simple and straightforward step, but it's also one of the most important. You don't know who else may still have keys or access to your new home, so it's a good idea to have the locks changed as soon as possible for your peace of mind and safety.

​Have the Property Inspected: Before you start moving in, it's important to inspect the property to make sure everything is in good working order. Look for any obvious damage, leaks, or other issues that need to be addressed. Make a list of these items and keep it for future reference.

Update your contact information: Make sure you update your utility companies, banks, and other important organizations with your new address, as soon as possible. This will ensure that you receive important mail and bills at your new address, in a timely fashion to avoid any disruptions in services.

Clean and organize: Cleaning and organizing your new home will help you feel settled in more quickly. It's also a good idea to start organizing your belongings and deciding where they should go in the new house.
Set up utilities: Before you move in, you'll need to set up utilities such as electricity, water, gas, and internet. This can usually be done online or by contacting the service provider directly.

Select a Home Security company and create a home security plan: Make sure your new home is secure by setting up a home security plan. This can include installing a security system, changing the locks, and making sure all windows and doors are secure. Create a fire safety plan of what to do in case of a fire emergency, better to be safe than sorry!

Familiarize yourself with the neighborhood: Take some time to explore your new neighborhood and get to know the area. Meet your neighbors, find local shops, and get a feel for the community. "When I go to new places, I like explore and then try to navigate back home without gps assistance."

Hire Reliable and Trustworthy Movers: During these stressful times you need a moving company that will have the flexibility to accommodate any unforeseen event without imposing huge penalties on their customers! I highly recommend, PittMovers, with there online scheduling capabilities it gives you the freedom and flexibility you need during this hectic time. On top of that the movers are very professional and knowledgable of how to maneuver in some of the trickiest situations, preserving the condition of your new property. 
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You made it to the end and to wrap this up, these are just a few of the important steps to take after closing on that beautiful new home. By following these tips, you will get a jumpstart on getting settled and making it your own!