There is a saying: like father, like son. In Scott Taylor’s case, that is especially true when it comes to his love of animals. From watching his father do much of the heavy lifting when caring for childhood pets to seeing his dad save ducklings from natural predators, Scott fondly remembers the compassion that both of his parents demonstrated to animals throughout the years.

Just one visit to the Virginia Beach SPCA fueled Scott’s own compassion, sparking more than a decade of service to homeless animals in Hampton Roads. He was invited for a tour and instantly agreed to join the Board of Directors. “After understanding the impact animals receive by the unbelievable people it takes to support the organization’s operations, I knew I had to get involved,” explains Scott.

Scott’s enthusiasm quickly spread to his wife, Katie, whose connection with animals began with her own childhood pets: ferrets and Doberman Pinschers. “Scott’s dedication to the animals and all involved at the VBSPCA inspires you to be active, help where you can, and do anything to support [the organization],” says Katie. “My compassion has only grown through the years.”

Since then, the Taylors have been constant champions of the organization. Their years of dedication to the animals will be honored with the 2023 Compassion Award, which will be presented to Scott and Katie at the VBSPCA Wags and Whiskers Gala on April 29, 2023.

On a personal level, Scott and Katie have sponsored, chaired, or volunteered at countless VBSPCA events over the years. The Taylors have also found ways for their businesses to support the organization. In addition to Taylor Construction’s longtime financial support as an Annual Partner, the company has helped out with facility projects. VA Valet is a staple at VBSPCA events, volunteering its valet and parking management services.

But perhaps the Taylors’ most meaningful connection to the VBSPCA is evident in their own home. “Katie and I have two amazing felines – Liv and Penny – who are loved by our family, friends, and colleagues as the ‘cool cats’ that have converted many of those who ‘only like dogs’,” says Scott. Katie adds, “It is hard to put into words the joy that animals and especially our two girls bring to me. There is love like no other from a pet, and we are all lucky to have them in our lives.”

When the Taylors found out they were the recipients of the 2023 Compassion Award, both described feeling humbled. Scott’s response clearly reflected the spirit of the honor: “When we are blessed with talents, time, and treasures, we are expected to benefit others – both human and companion animals.”

“Pets teach us important lessons. Responsibility, unconditional love, companionship, and compassion, just to name a few. Pets are some of our best friends, they always keep our secrets, they lower our stress level (most of the time), and they care for us as much as we care for them.” – Scott Taylor

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. Alanna was transferred to the VBSPCA in October 2022 from one of our local animal shelters as a young kitten. She was placed into one of our foster homes until she was healthy and strong enough for the adoption process. Aside from her time with her foster family, Alanna hadn’t had much interaction with humans and was very shy. Because of this, she wasn’t adopted out as quickly as some of the more social kittens.

However, Alanna’s status of longest kitten resident pulled at the heartstrings of one family. Sandy and her family adopted her in December. We recently caught up with Sandy to get an update on how Alanna is doing now.

How is Alanna doing in the home?

Alanna has adjusted beautifully to her new indoor lifestyle. We gave her some space in the beginning, allowing her time to explore the house and get used to her fellow rescue kitty, Elvira.

What sort of activities do you do together?

She loves to cuddle up to me in bed. Her happy purrs make my heart glow! I have a kitty pouch that she loves to lie in while we ride around in my power chair. Alanna likes to hang out with me in the kitchen. She and Elvira act as “quality control”, taste-testing what they are allowed.

Do you have any funny stories to share from your time together?

Watching her relationship with Elvira evolve has been quite amusing! It was a bit adversarial in the beginning, but then Elvira began to teach Alanna, who proved to be a very adept student. Now, she stalks Elvira, rushing out from under the sofa and stopping right in front of her. They touch noses as if to say “Tag! You’re it!”. Then Alanna runs away with Ellie hot on her heels!

How has Alanna enriched your lives so far?

There aren’t enough words to describe how happy she has made me AND my husband. He’s the only male in the house, so that makes him the Alpha of the “pride”. It’s quite funny! Alanna is our baby and we adore her!

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

Shelter pets are different. They all have stories; some good and some not. They crave love, attention and physical contact with someone they can trust not to let them down. I wish I could adopt them all! Shelter pets give unconditional love.

Espresso is one of two puppies from the Virginia Beach SPCA that has been selected for the 2023 Puppy Bowl on Animal Planet! In addition to being a famous puppy athlete, Espresso is also a beloved pet who fell in love with her family right here at our shelter.

Espresso was abandoned along with her 10 hound mix littermates in North Carolina in September 2022. They were alone on the side of the road, scared and without their mother at only six weeks old. The pups were taken to a local shelter before being transferred to the VBSPCA, where they received weeks of care before they were ready for the adoption process.

Once Espresso was ready for her shot at a forever home, it didn’t take long for her to catch the eye of Jazmine and her family. She was officially adopted last October. We recently caught up with Jazmine to hear more about Espresso’s home life before we get ready to cheer her on in this year’s Puppy Bowl!

How did you know Espresso was the one for you?

We decided we wanted to add a dog to the family so we went to the VBSPCA. Derrick [Jazmine’s partner] saw her first and instantly wanted to spend time with her. When we took her in the room, she instantly came to me and got in my lap. My heart melted and I remembered my family saying, your dog picks you, you don’t pick the dog. She jumped all over Cynia [Jazmine’s daughter] and Derrick too. I knew she was meant for us, but unfortunately there was a family who had applied to adopt her first. I was so nervous because we had fallen in love with her and there was a possibility we wouldn’t get to bring her home. Fate was on our side because the other family’s application fell through. 

How is Espresso doing in the home?

Espresso adjusted well. She feels like the missing piece to our family. She brings so much joy, especially to our daughter.

What sort of activities do you do together?

We play outside a lot. Her favorite thing to do is play tag and tug-of-war or chase after Cynia and Derrick. She is super affectionate and loves cuddles and to be rubbed. 

Does Espresso have any funny quirks?

Anytime she does something she’s not supposed to do she turns her head to the side and then turns her face up to ignore you. It’s hilarious because you can tell she understands that she’s not supposed to be doing something. 

How has Espresso enriched your lives so far?

After a long day of work or school, Espresso always greets us with plenty of love and energy and excitement. She’s a joyful dog to be around. 

We are first time pet owners. One thing we learned is, just like babies, there is no manual. You learn as you continue to grow with your pet and y’all learn from each other. Be patient, be kind, and make sure your fur babies feel included and loved. 

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

I think people should adopt from a shelter because, just like humans, we all need love. A lot of times I feel shelter pets are passed over but they just want to have a forever family.

Be sure to tune in to this year’s Puppy Bowl to see Espresso in action on Sunday, February 12th at 2:00pm on Animal Planet! You can also join us for our Puppy Bowl Tail-Gate Party to meet Espresso and our other pup star, Briscoe. Click here for details.

Peyton Hoffler is no stranger to animal shelters. She started volunteering when she was in high school and eventually worked as a sales representative/adoption coordinator at a dog rescue in Los Angeles. Now she is taking on a new role in animal welfare: serving on the Virginia Beach SPCA’s Board of Directors.

“I have always enjoyed being hands on helping the animals, and now I am at a point in my life where I can also be a financial support and help with creative fundraising ideas,” Hoffler said.

Additionally, Hoffler has experience working in the service and mortgage industries. While her focus now lies on starting a family, she makes sure to carve out time for her two passions: philanthropy and art.

“My goal in life is to do my best to even play a small role in eliminating animal suffering, and to do that you have to work to increase human compassion for animals,” said Hoffler. “We have to help the ones that can’t help themselves.”

Hoffler champions the many ways the community can get involved with the VBSPCA. From events to volunteer opportunities, she spreads the word to help us connect people and pets. “Helping animals and people is what makes me the happiest,” she explained.

We are happy to welcome Hoffler 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.

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. Basil came to the VBSPCA in March 2022 when her previous owner could no longer care for her. The one year old rabbit has a very spirited personality and was in need of a rabbit-savvy family. Basil was bullied by another rabbit in her previous home, so she would also need slow introductions to any resident bunnies.

Month after month, Basil waited for her forever home. More than seven months later, her adoption dreams finally came true on October 23, 2022. We recently caught up with Basil’s adopter, Stephi, to get an update on how the feisty little rabbit is doing now.

How did you find Basil?

I had been sort of browsing local shelters for another rabbit because we had Brooklyn (our other rabbit) and were worried she was lonely at home by herself all day. When we went to visit with Basil she was a bit spicy and vocal, but she did let my husband pet her and calmed down, so I thought she would be a good fit for us and our other bunny. Since she had been at the shelter for a while, we figured she would mellow in a quieter home setting.

How is Basil doing in the home?

She is still spicy and very opinionated about when is a good time to get loved on and fed. Her and Brooklyn have some moments, but for the most part they lay together and eat together. We’re hoping they will be able to meet, without fences, by mid-January. I do think they both enjoy having a fellow rabbit to hang out with.

What sort of activities do you do together?

We let the girls each have time in the living room in the evenings when we are home. Basil is still exploring that space and will occasionally get the “binkys” (happy bunny jumps and runs) and zoom all over.

Does Basil have any funny quirks?

She is not a good hound like our other girl but is slowly learning to enjoy fresh greens (kale is her favorite) and now stares at us when she hears the treat jar rattling. So far there’s only one treat she likes, apple cookies, but she does enjoy the occasional cherry tomato!

In the morning she will come to the edge of the fence and “loaf up” (sit in a ball) and wait for a pet.

How has Basil enriched your lives so far?

We’ve enjoyed her different personality. Our other girl is very sweet and wants to be the center of attention all the time, but Basil stays more to herself. When she asks for attention, it’s more special.

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

Shelter pet or not, all animals have quirks. It doesn’t make them bad or not worthy of understanding. There’s so much reward in taking in a pet with quirks and getting over hurdles with them. I can’t recommend adopting a rabbit enough, they are amazing pets for busy families and so fun!

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. Poppy and her five young kittens were transferred to the VBSPCA from another local shelter in May 2022. The feline family was placed in a foster home until Poppy was finished with her motherly duties. Poppy was a little shy when she arrived at the shelter for the adoption process, but it didn’t take long for Ashlyn and her boyfriend, Tanner, to notice her. We recently caught up with Ashlyn to hear the rest of Poppy’s adoption story.

When did you adopt Poppy? 

We adopted Poppy on June 24, 2022. 

How did you know Poppy was the one for you?

We had a long conversation about adopting a cat. Tanner has always been a cat person, and we talked a lot about the benefits of bringing another pet into our home. When we walked through the VBSPCA, Tanner encouraged us to take a look at the older cats as opposed to the kittens. Poppy immediately caught our eye. I insisted that I wanted an orange cat, and she was absolutely perfect.

How is Poppy doing in the home?

Poppy has adjusted beautifully to our home. Within her first week, she was roaming freely without fear, which made us so incredibly happy. Aurora, her Goldendoodle sister, has been obsessed with her since the moment we brought her through the door, and Poppy returns the love.

Her personality is really shining through. I never knew cats wanted to play so very much. She has a favorite toy that she is always herding us towards. When she’s not playing with her favorite toy, she entertains herself by running back and forth throughout the house – oftentimes accompanied by her sister.

Does Poppy have any funny quirks?

She finds the most interesting places to take a nap. Currently, as we have been decorating for the holidays, her new favorite napping spot is right on top of the ornament box. 

How has Poppy enriched your lives so far? 

Poppy has brought so much love and joy into our lives. Having her jump up into your lap to snuggle down makes you feel like the most special person in the world. Seeing her in her life now, it is hard to imagine the tough start she had. The tiny, young mama that we first brought home is almost unrecognizable to us now.

Poppy brings so much to our family and we truly feel complete. We are constantly thankful that she caught our eye that day in the shelter. As timid as she seemed initially, we knew immediately that she needed to come home with us. She is a forever member of our family and we wouldn’t have it any other way.

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

Shelter pets quickly become your pet. They become a part of your family. If you’re considering adopting a pet, I strongly encourage you to just walk through the shelter and take a look. I can guarantee that you will find your new family member here.

Serving the community has always been important to Mario Lorello, who worked as an Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney in Virginia Beach for more than a decade. After transitioning to private practice, Lorello wanted to find a way to keep serving the public and found his place with the Virginia Beach SPCA’s Board of Directors. 

“I wanted an opportunity to connect with the community through a cause that I was particularly passionate about,” said Lorello. “I wanted to reconnect with the aspects of that type of work that I found most rewarding, such as helping others. In this case: animals.”

Lorello is now an attorney with the law firm of Zoby & Broccoletti, P.C., where he specializes in criminal defense. He also lends his experience with law to aid the VBSPCA. Additionally, Lorello is passionate about spreading the word about the organization’s fundraising events and community outreach programs. 

“People generally have misconceptions about shelters in terms of the types of pets available, their demeanor, and the conditions they stay in while sheltered,” said Lorello. “I’d urge the community to visit the VBSPCA and see firsthand the level of care and comfort there, the stellar facility itself, and the amazing animals in need of homes. And then tell others, because word-of-mouth is really powerful!”

We are happy to welcome Lorello 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.

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. When Buck arrived at our shelter this June, he had already been through a lot. The two year old Boxer mix was shot in his front right leg and had to have it amputated. When he first came to our kennel, he was understandably nervous and shy.

Right away, Buck got a lot of attention from potential adopters thanks to a widely shared Facebook post. However, he ran into more bad luck. He was briefly adopted into two different homes, but neither one was the right fit. However, Buck’s luck finally changed when he met Kim and her family. We recently caught up with Kim to get the rest of Buck’s story.

How did you find Buck?

I saw Buck on the VBSPCA Facebook page initially in July. Our dog Crosby had just passed away in April, and I was sort of teasing my husband, Danny, about how sad this little three-legged dog looked. We weren’t quite ready for a second dog, and I was about to have major surgery.

Then our dog Charlie passed the day after my surgery. I think Buck came across my Facebook feed again, and I told my husband. We didn’t think we would get another dog so soon, but Danny came home one day and said, “All I can think about is that sad little three-legged dog.” Unfortunately, the day we visited he had the maximum amount of applications. We still watched him through the kennel grate and I was in love. He went home with a family, but they brought him back for having too much energy. I was there the very next day to meet him officially.

When we met Buck, it definitely felt right! He instantly took to my son Mick. We filled out the paperwork right then and anxiously waited to bring him home. We adopted Buck on September 4, 2022.

How is Buck doing in the home?

Buck is doing well. He isn’t perfect by any means, but we expected that! He has a LOT of energy. His backyard zoomies crack me up, especially since he only has three legs! He is FAST and kind of uses his shoulder to turn. He has also learned very quickly where we keep the treats!

What sort of activities do you do together?

Buck’s favorite thing to do is snuggle. He lays on my son, Mick, while he does his homework; lays across my lap while I drink my coffee; and if you are on the couch, he wants to be as close to you as possible.

Buck loves to give kisses and will cover you with his big tongue all over. He loves to run, and watching his ears and jowls flop is probably my favorite thing. He also loves to go places and ride in the car. We have taken him to a couple breweries and restaurants and he is so well behaved! He gets all sorts of love. His foster family came to visit and it was a really special time. There were some happy tears, and he was so excited to see them!

How has Buck enriched your lives so far?

We weren’t really looking for another dog when we adopted Buck. We had lost two dogs, one to old age and one to cancer very abruptly, in the course of three months. I had also just undergone surgery for breast cancer and was about to start radiation. The last thing on my mind was looking for a dog. When my husband came home talking about Buck, it all sort of fell into place. He was exactly what we needed. I feel like we needed each other.

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

I think people can underestimate dogs with special needs. Just because Buck is missing a leg doesn’t mean he is just going to lay around. He can still be active and run and play. Special needs dogs have just as much love to give as fully able dogs. Sometimes they just need the right family to give that love back.

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. Mama and Blondie are a mother-daughter duo who have spent their entire lives together. They have been surrendered to the VBSPCA twice after their previous owners could no longer care for them, most recently in December 2021. At 15 years and 12 years of age, the senior Turkish Angora cats needed a place where they could live out their retirement years together.

Mama and Blondie became favorites of our shelter staff, receiving lots of love and attention while they waited to be adopted. They made themselves at home in one of our cat colonies and ended up spending four months there. Then in April 2022, Morgan spotted them on the VBSPCA website and adopted them on Easter Sunday. We recently caught up with Morgan to get an update on this special pair.

How are Mama and Blondie doing in the home?

Mama and Blondie have adjusted to living in our home. At first they were not thrilled as we have another cat (Clover) and a dog (Ylvis), but after a few months they fit right in. Mama still likes to hide, but she has a hiding spot where we can pet her and she can nap. Blondie likes to act like she owns the place, and she has become top cat.

What sort of activities do you do together?

They don’t like doing activities. Just food and naps.

They are low maintenance cats, and this wouldn’t be our home without them. We also never forget feeding time with three cats in the house (Hey it’s like 5am and you haven’t fed me yet, are you going to get up and do that?).

Do Mama and Blondie have any funny quirks?

Mama likes getting her head scratched and she will rub her head all over our upstairs hallway. Blondie likes to paw at Clover if he starts getting annoying.

How have Mama and Blondie enriched your lives so far?

They have vibrant personalities that are entertaining. They are not cuddly (they hate being held) but they let us pet them every time they walk by.

Why do you think people should consider adopting senior pets like Mama and Blondie?

Senior cats are different: they don’t play like kittens do, and they like to nap and get loves. I have raised several kittens and older cats, especially from the SPCA/Humane Society, and they have never disappointed. People seem to avoid the older animals because of their age, but it isn’t the animals’ choice to go to the shelter. They don’t deserve to live the rest of their lives in the shelter and deserve the same amount of love that the younger ones do.

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. Stevie and her littermate were transferred to the VBSPCA shelter all the way from Texas in June 2021. Both young puppies were terrified. Since Stevie was extremely shy and had a lot to learn about the human world, she was placed with Mallory, one of our experienced fosters. Mallory put in a lot of time and effort during Stevie’s foster period but when it was time for Stevie to be made available for adoption, Mallory couldn’t bear to part with her. Mallory and her husband, Chris, formally adopted her that September. We recently caught up with Mallory for the full story and an update on Stevie now.

Can you tell us about what Stevie was like as a foster?

Stevie wanted absolutely nothing to do with me but was enamored with Blue [a dog Mallory and Chris adopted from the VBSPCA] straight away! I think Blue was her savior. For a long time she tried to avoid us and had a little hoard of toys and a bed under the dining room table where she would run to if anyone moved at all. Slowly she started to hang around us more and take treats from us. She really just wanted to be around Blue and Darwin [their other pup], so sometimes that meant being close to Chris and me.

It took about a month for Stevie to allow us to really touch her, but she would still run and hide afterwards. I was determined not to foster fail with her because I really wanted to know that I could help a dog like her become adoptable; so even though everyone was telling me to keep her, I kept saying, “no, no, no, I don’t want three dogs right now!” When it was time for her to be put up for adoption, I was hopeful but my heart sank.

What ultimately made you decide to adopt Stevie?

There was someone interested in Stevie right away, but then they changed their minds. I was feeling really sad and anxious about giving her up, plus Blue was quite attached to her – they are still almost inseparable. My husband knew I was really upset so he emailed me from work and told me just to adopt her… he was supposed to be the one who kept me in check! On September 28, 2021, we officially adopted her!

How is Stevie doing in the home?

Stevie has become a happy life-loving puppy! It has been such a joy watching her blossom and become the dog she was meant to be. She is so hilarious and makes me laugh every day. She LOVES meeting new dogs and loves going on play dates with her BFF dogs.

She absolutely adores all of the fosters we have had since adopting her. She has very good mama dog instincts and loves playing with and taking care of puppies. She is still very unsure of new humans. When someone comes over, we always tell them that Stevie will bark at them for a couple of minutes and then ignore them completely.

What sort of activities do you and Stevie do together?

Stevie likes to play fetch and tug with me! She also enjoys sharing my pillow on the couch and watching TV (she is a huge Buffy the Vampire fan).

Stevie will never be a snuggly, attention-seeking dog but that’s ok. She likes to snuggle in the mornings and she sometimes snuggles at night when everyone is relaxing, but she mostly likes to snuggle Blue or hang out by herself.

Does Stevie have any funny quirks?

Stevie loves to be dirty; we call her our dirtball princess! She is a treasure and I will never regret our decision to adopt her.

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

Easy, they are the best!! I think we kind of have a responsibility to help them if we have the ability. Shelter dogs come in all shapes, sizes, and personalities, so there is truly a dog for everyone somewhere within the rescue community. It is also very satisfying to watch them blossom and become the dog they might not have been able to become without you. The love of a shelter dog is just so immense and beautiful, there is nothing else like it! I have also made very good human friends within the rescue/foster community because it’s a great way to bond with people who have the same moral interests. I promise you won’t regret giving a shelter pet a second chance at life! If you are not ready for the full time commitment, I highly recommend fostering.