Studio 47 part of ‘Pooch Playoffs’ fundraiser for Mon Valley Paws

A professional photography session is being offered for a $125 donation to Mon Valley Paws.

For Jenn Codeluppi, pets have always been part of the family.

As owner and photographer of Studio 47 Portraits, she’s turning that passion into action with a fundraiser designed to make a lasting impact for four-legged community members and their humans.

Luna – owner is Mackezie Schwerzler of Peters Township

The 2026 “Pooch Playoffs” is a bracket-style dog photography competition that will benefit Mon Valley Paws.

“This year, I’m proud to be collaborating with photographers across the United States to make Pooch Playoffs bigger than ever,” Codeluppi said. “What started as a creative way to give back has grown into a nationwide movement to celebrate pets while raising meaningful funds locally.

Blast is a foster available for adoption through Bark About It Rescue in Somerset Pa., and foster parents are Noah Melville and Madison Codeluppi of Fallowfield Township.

“I selected Mon Valley Paws because they are a 501(c)(3) organization that doesn’t operate as a rescue themselves. Instead, they raise and distribute funds to multiple shelters and rescues throughout our region. That ripple effect means this one event can help countless animals in need. I’m honored to support their mission.”

Sixteen local dogs are competing for the title of Pittsburgh’s “Ulti-Mutt Cutie.”

Online voting begins at the end of March, with each bracket winner advancing through successive rounds.

The 2026 champion will earn special prizes and local bragging rights.

Each participating dog will receive a professional portrait session in exchange for a $125 donation to Mon Valley Paws. Every entrant also receives a personalized photo keychain and a “Wag Bag” filled with goodies from local sponsors for both pets and their people.

“It’s funny,” Codeluppi added, “our pets are such important members of our families, yet most of us don’t think to have a professional portrait taken of them. Pooch Playoffs gives families a fun way to capture their pet’s personality while supporting a cause that directly impacts animals in our community.”

Mon Valley Paws Director Randall Marino has entered his own service dog, Albany, into the competition.

“Mon Valley Paws is honored to partner with Studio 47 Portraits in support of our mission to help pets in need,” Marino said. “Community collaborations like this allow us to expand our reach and provide critical funding to local shelters and rescues throughout the region.”

MVP is nonprofit organization made up of dedicated volunteers who raise funds and collect pet food and supplies. Those resources are distributed to individuals in need and to nonprofit organizations that specialize in animal rescue and care throughout the region.

Funding allocation is determined annually by the organization’s membership. Currently, 62.5 % of the funds raised each year are directed to partnered shelters and rescues. The remaining 37.5% supports the organization’s grant programs. Businesses and individuals also have the option of donating directly to the grant program to assist animals and pet owners facing financial hardship.

Community members can support Mon Valley Paws in several ways beyond Pooch Playoffs. Pet food and supplies may be dropped off at the donation bin inside Pet Supplies Plus in Rostraver Township. These items are distributed to partnered shelters and rescues, as well as to families through the organization’s community partnerships.

Monetary donations can be made through PayPal, mailed by check to PO Box 47, Monessen, PA 15062, or given in person at one of the organization’s events. Donations are also accepted during regular office hours at Pet Supplies Plus.

Pet owners interested in entering their four-legged companions in the 2026 Pooch Playoffs can complete the entry form at www.studio47portraits. com/2026-pooch-playoffs. Studio 47 Portraits will follow up directly to schedule portrait sessions.

For more information about Mon Valley Paws and its programs, visit www.monvalleypaws.com.