Every single animal that comes through our shelter has a story. Some are complex, many are sad, but all of them get better the minute they arrive at the Virginia Beach SPCA. Savannah was surrendered to the VBSPCA in February 2023 due to her previous family’s financial challenges. Like many animals, the six year old tabby had a hard time adjusting to life in the shelter. With patience and time, Savannah got to know the cattery team and began to show her sweet side. A few months later, a woman named Jane visited the shelter to meet Savannah after seeing her photo online. We recently caught up with Jane to get Savannah’s full adoption story.

When did you adopt Savannah?

May 4, 2023

How did you find Savannah?

Unfortunately, my darling cat, Butterfly, whom I’d also adopted from the Virginia Beach SPCA, died this year. I was devastated and missed her so badly. I began to browse through the available cats on the VBSPCA website, and I finally visited the shelter. Savannah caught my eye because I’m partial to long-haired cats, and her story was a very touching one. Her previous owner had been forced to surrender her when he became homeless, and I could sense that she was grieving and missed him and her previous home very badly. I could empathize because I was also grieving, and so she and I began to bond.

How is Savannah doing in the home?

She was a little reclusive for the first few days, but she eventually began to come out and spend more time in the room with me. Now, I think that she’s settled in and has assumed the responsibility of running the household.

What sort of activities do you do together?

For a mature cat, she’s very playful, so we spend some time playing with the dangling toys or tossing a small stuffed animal around. We also sit on the couch together and watch movies, and she cuddles with me in bed every morning.

Does Savannah have any funny quirks?

She sometimes reminds me of a dog because Savannah will lie down and roll over when she wants attention. For reasons that I don’t understand, she also likes to hunker down on her scratching post. It seems as if this would be very uncomfortable because the scratching post isn’t large enough for her to lie comfortably on and is, of course, very scratchy. She also has a way of pushing her head into my hand when she wants to be petted.

How has Savannah enriched your life so far?

She greets me every afternoon when I come home from work, and she’s on my bed each morning when I wake up. I think this is her way of letting me know that she’s settled into her new home and is content living with me.

Old dogs have something to wag about this summer, as The Grey Muzzle Organization announces the recipients of its annual grants, and dogs at the Virginia Beach SPCA are among the winners.

The VBSPCA is one of 90 animal welfare groups chosen from 370 applicants to receive a grant to help local senior dogs. The winning groups received $848,000 in grants to help save or improve the lives of at-risk old dogs in their communities. A total of $10,000 was awarded to the VBSPCA.

“This grant will help us give senior dogs like 16-year-old Sampson the veterinary and dental care they need so they’re ready to go to their forever homes,” said Derby Brackett, CEO of the VBSPCA. “No one is more grateful or loving than an old dog, and we’re looking forward to helping more senior dogs get the second chance they all deserve.”

Over the past 15 years, the national nonprofit Grey Muzzle Organization has provided more than $4.6 million in grants to support its vision of “a world where no old dog dies alone and afraid.”

“Thanks to the generosity of our donors, we’re delighted to help deserving organizations like the Virginia Beach SPCA make a difference in the lives of dogs and people in their communities,” Grey Muzzle’s Executive Director Lisa Lunghofer said. “Many senior dogs in Hampton Roads are enjoying their golden years in loving homes thanks to the wonderful work of the VBSPCA.”

Every single animal that comes through our shelter has a story. Some are complex, many are sad, but all of them get better the minute they arrive at the Virginia Beach SPCA. Citrus was brought to the VBSPCA as an older kitten in need of medical attention in September 2022. He was born with a painful birth defect in both eyes, and the VBSPCA clinic team surgically removed them to alleviate his discomfort. As he adjusted to life as a blind cat in the shelter, he quickly became a staff favorite and would even take walks around the cattery on a leash.

Once Citrus recovered from his surgery, it didn’t take long before he got the attention of one couple who was visiting the shelter. On November 13, 2022, Christine and her husband welcomed Citrus into their home. We recently caught up with Christine to get an update on Citrus.

How did you find Citrus?

We saw a sign that said to “ask about Dooby,” which was Citrus’ name at the VBSPCA. When I did, he was instantly just so lovely and food motivated, which was super cute. I knew I wanted to bring him home and give him the life he deserved. My husband has renamed him Citrus for his spicy little attitude he can have.

How is Citrus doing in the home?

He is doing so good. He has two siblings that he spends his time snuggling with and running around the house with.

What sort of activities do you do together?

Oddly enough, Citrus loves taking baths. The bathroom is his favorite place. He also has three cat towers that he proudly gets to the top of. He also loves begging for my food at my feet like a dog would do. It’s my favorite thing.

Does Citrus have any funny quirks?

With his love of the bathroom comes the funniest thing ever: I call them his jumping jacks, where he stands on the corner of the tub, faces the tile on his hind legs with his arms up, and – for at least a minute – he jumps in one spot. Also another funny thing that he does is put his front feet into the food bowl while he eats.

How has Citrus enriched your lives so far?

He certainly can be entertaining. He makes us laugh but he is also quite the perfect companion to me and my husband. He completes our little family and he brings a personality of his own that makes me happy to come home to every day.

Why do you think people should consider adopting a pet with special needs?

I think the biggest misconception is that pets with special needs are hard to live with or require more attention, but Citrus is super intelligent. I assumed I’d need to teach him everything to live a happy life, but the first thing he did when he got home was sniff out his litter box and use it. He is just like his brother and sister, just missing some parts.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I have worked with the VBSPCA on many different occasions as far as adopting two loving pets, seeking medical care [at the VBSPCA Clinic], and volunteering for Beach Buddies. I can say it is one of the greatest pleasures in my life choosing to adopt my cats from the VBSPCA. They hold all my happiness, and I truly hope everyone can experience adopting special needs animals, elderly animals, or even animals that just need a chance at life again.

Have you ever wondered what it is like to work at an animal shelter? Here at the Virginia Beach SPCA, we have more than 60 employees who connect people and pets. Our team members serve in a variety of roles, and each individual is an integral part of working towards the mission of ending animal suffering while increasing human compassion. This month we want to take you behind the scenes of the VBSPCA Kennel.

Interested in turning your passion for animals into a career? Click here to check out the VBSPCA’s current job openings.

Every single animal that comes through our shelter has a story. Some are complex, many are sad, but all of them get better the minute they arrive at the Virginia Beach SPCA. Bentley was transferred to the VBSPCA from another shelter in June 2021. Previously the little Pomeranian mix had been chained outside with other dogs, living in filth. When Bentley arrived with a limp, the VBSPCA clinic team immediately examined him and determined he had been shot. There were buck shot fragments still in his leg, and the leg was broken. Our veterinarians amputated his leg, and Bentley was fostered by one of our staff members while he recovered from the surgery.

Despite living through years of neglect, Bentley was very friendly with humans. Once he was ready for adoption, his foster mom set up meet and greets with potential adopters. He immediately clicked with a young woman named Cat, who was ready to adopt a dog after living without a canine companion during her undergraduate program. We recently caught up with Cat to hear about how life with Bentley has been since she adopted him.

How did you know that Bentley was the one for you?

My sister, Melanie, was actually the one who found Bentley! She saw him online and thought that he would be a great fit! I was won over by the story of his previous life and was instantly head over heels for this little dog.

How is Bentley doing in the home?

Bentley has done exceptionally well since I brought him home! We have adopted a great routine in the mornings including a walk around the lake, then breakfast and coffee together (his breakfast and my coffee, of course) before getting ready for school!

Does Bentley have any funny quirks?

As boy dogs do when they go potty, he attempts to lift up his back leg. However, since he is down a leg in the back, he ends up walking on his front paws in an attempt to keep his balance!

How has Bentley enriched your life so far?

Growing up, I had always been accustomed to living with big dogs and always thought that I would stick to that trend. However, my condo association requires dogs to be under a certain weight, so I had to downsize. I very quickly realized that size does not matter – I never thought that I could love a dog as much as him! He has become my little shadow. He sleeps next to me, follows me around when I cook, and loves taking naps on the couch after a long day. Not once have I felt lonely since adopting him. Similarly to most dogs, he is simply content existing with his human!

There is truly nothing like the experience of owning a dog! Their loyalty to stay by your side, the fun they have on walks together, and the excitement they show when you walk through the door is truly an experience like no other. Sometimes, one can feel small in this world and feel as if they have no power to make a difference – however, when you make the decision to adopt a dog, you have changed their life forever.

Why do you think people should consider adopting a pet with special needs?

I believe that adopting a dog with special needs is truly a privilege if one has the ability to do so. Having the patience to provide for a dog with special needs takes a certain “breed” and may not be for everyone. However, if one feels as though they are called to do so, it can be incredibly enriching to provide for an animal that may need a little extra help. From my experience, most dogs (and Bentley as well) have an incredible ability to adapt and flourish with just the added bit of help from their humans!

The inaugural BEACH IT! Country Music Festival kicked off with some special four legged friends. The Virginia Beach SPCA was honored to be part of Miranda’s Little Red Wagon donation drive at The Shack ahead of the festival’s opening on Friday, June 23, 2023.

Despite the rounds of storms rolling through, country music fans stopped by to meet adoptable dogs and puppies, donate to the animals, and learn about the VBSPCA. Each person who made a financial donation or dropped off an item from the VBSPCA Wish List was entered into a raffle for two VIP tickets to the BEACH IT! Festival as well as an autographed copy of Miranda Lambert‘s new cookbook, “Y’all Eat Yet?”.

The donation drive was initiated by country artist Miranda Lambert’s MuttNation Foundation, which organizes Fill the Little Red Wagon donation drives at her concerts to benefit shelters across the country. US1061 – Real Country teamed up with Lawyer Garage to create a bus-sized ‘Little Red Wagon’ for this special event.

Following the donation drive, VBSPCA adoptable dogs went backstage to greet the crew and musical artists. Spud, a 12 week old Terrier mix, even got to make a special appearance with singer Lily Rose during a backstage interview. A big thank you to everyone who stopped by to support the VBSPCA animals!

Have you ever wondered what it is like to work at an animal shelter? Here at the Virginia Beach SPCA, we have more than 60 employees who connect people and pets. Our team members serve in a variety of roles, and each individual is an integral part of working towards our mission of ending animal suffering while increasing human compassion. This month we want to take you behind the scenes of the VBSPCA Cattery.

Interested in turning your passion for animals into a career? Click here to check out the VBSPCA’s current job openings.

Every single animal that comes through our shelter has a story. Some are complex, many are sad, but all of them get better the minute they arrive at the Virginia Beach SPCA. Me Me was brought to the VBSPCA in September 2022 when her previous owner could no longer care for her. The sweet senior cat was very shy and was continually overlooked by potential adopters.

However, Me Me had a couple of very special visitors – Erin and her partner, Andy. They were initially unable to adopt but dropped in to visit her over the course of a few months. Me Me’s big day finally came in January 2023, when Erin and Andy officially adopted her and took her home after she spent four long months in the shelter. We recently caught up with Erin for Me Me’s full story.

How did you you know Me Me was the one for you?

My partner and I used to visit the VBSPCA every weekend to get to know the senior cats as at the time we couldn’t adopt. The cattery staff would pick out a senior or shy cat for us to spend time with and help socialize. One weekend in early October 2022, we were asked to sit with a particularly nervous senior cat, which was Me Me. She didn’t let anyone pet her so we sat with her for about 40 minutes that first visit just talking to her, and she eventually let us pet her a little bit. Over the course of a few weekends, she started purring within 5 minutes of being with her and rolled over for belly rubs at each visit. She still hadn’t liked anyone else at this point and we knew she was meant to be a part of our family. By coordinating with the cattery staff, we were able to set her adoption date and bring her home!

How is Me Me doing in the home?

Me Me is doing very well, cuddling tons and playing with all her toys. Even at the age of 12 she still gets zoomies!

What sort of activities do you do together?

We birdwatch out the window, and she loves chasing her toys around and pouncing on treats we toss to her.

Does Me Me have any funny quirks?

She doesn’t really meow much, but as she has gotten more comfortable, she chirps at us all the time. She is very silly and obsessed with rugs, rolling around [on them] while purring or using them as a scratcher.

How has Me Me enriched your lives so far?

Me Me has brought our family so much joy, from constant cuddles every night and morning to hearing her little paws shuffling around when she gets zoomies. She is such a sweet, silly, and loving member of our family and we couldn’t be happier to have her!

Why do you think people should consider adopting a shelter pet?

We think people should truly consider adopting from shelters as there are so many animals with different personalities that you can get to know to find the right fit. We really encourage people to look at senior animals when adopting; they can be just as fun and playful as any other pet! So many people overlook them, but we love our sweet senior girl so much!

Amanda Wells is passionate about helping others. Whether it’s people or animals, she is energized by making things better for those around her. Wells does both by serving on the Virginia Beach SPCA’s Board of Directors.

Wells first got involved with the VBSPCA as a volunteer. “Volunteering at the VBSPCA is very rewarding,” she said. “Volunteering allows you to get to know the animals and help get them adopted.”

Now as a board member, Wells also shares her expertise in human resources to help the VBSPCA’s team. She is currently the Norfolk Botanical Garden’s Director of Human Resources. In addition to her extensive human resources background, Wells has 18 years of experience working with nonprofit organizations. She is extremely connected to the VBSPCA’s adoption services.

“I appreciate that the VBSPCA is such a resource to the community, from the clinic, animal adoption, the Pet Pantry, and more,” explained Wells. “When a person adopts a pet, they are saving a life.”

While Wells is quick to encourage others to volunteer at the VBSPCA, she also recommends attending its events. “They are fun and you meet other people who love animals,” said Wells.

We are happy to welcome Wells to the VBSPCA Board of Directors. It takes involvement from caring people in our community to make a difference in the lives of homeless animals!

If you are interested in serving on the Virginia Beach SPCA Board of Directors, please email Derby.Brackett@vbspca.com for more information.

Pets have been a part of Bill Campbell’s life for as long as he can remember. From his getting his first dog, Heater, when he was seven years old to the visits he now gets from his children and “grandpets,” Campbell has enjoyed the company of many animals over the years. 

When asked how animals have changed Campbell’s life, he explained, “Having pets taught me responsibility and compassion, and provided the joy of companionship with another being who showed love and devotion.” Through his involvement with the Virginia Beach SPCA, he has changed the lives of many animals as well. 

Campbell served on the VBSPCA’s Board of Directors from 2016 to 2022, when he transitioned to an honorary board position. Throughout the years he has shared his expertise in communications and been a sponsor of the organization’s events. He has also shared his artistic talents to raise funds for the animals by donating custom pet portraits for VBSPCA silent auctions. Additionally, Campbell was the man behind the drawing featured on the custom beer label for Second Chance Sour Ale, which was part of a photo contest and fundraising initiative launched in 2021 in collaboration with Smartmouth Brewing Company.

Campbell’s years of contributions to the VBSPCA will be recognized with the 2023 Lifesaver Award, which will be presented to him at the Wags and Whiskers Gala on Saturday, April 29, 2023. It is only fitting, since he has attended and provided financial support to the organization’s largest fundraising event for many years.

“As long as I remember coming, the Gala has been one of the major highlights of every season,” says Campbell. “The animals, the fun, the pride in supporting such a worthy cause.”

Campbell has been a dedicated ambassador of the VBSPCA in our community, spreading awareness of the organization’s service offerings. “What amazes me about the Virginia Beach SPCA is that it is far more than a pet adoption agency. Its dedication to animal health, humane education, affordable veterinary services, and injured wildlife rescue all contribute to its mission of eliminating animal suffering and building human compassion,” he says.

It is impossible for the VBSPCA to sustain its programs and services without committed and caring members of the community such as Campbell. While he shies away from credit for his part in saving animal lives, receiving this year’s Lifesaver Award affirms something Campbell has long known. “[This recognition] is an affirmation that working for something you truly believe in can prove highly rewarding. I don’t need an award to learn that lesson,” says Campbell.

“My involvement with the Virginia Beach SPCA has also allowed me the satisfaction of helping so many animals find loving homes, where I’m sure they will help develop the same values that animals taught me.” – Bill Campbell

Photo Credit: Don Monteaux Photography