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October 2019 Mission Moments

The world of animal welfare can be challenging, however there are many amazing moments that serve as great reminders of why we show up every day for the animals in our care. We hope that these stories will inspire you and make you as happy as they made us!

Doppie

Many saw the incredible Doppie on Coast Live. He was one of our longest canine residents and was surrendered because his owner became ill. Everyone at the shelter loved Doppie’s goofy personality and wiggly butt. Yet when Doppie was in the kennel, he became very anxious and fearful which led adopters to think he would not be a good fit for their home. However, this past weekend Doppie finally met his human and went to his forever home. He now has plenty of land to run around on and two dog friends that he can play with.

Johan

Johan, a senior domestic cat, was surrendered to us with rotten teeth and an infectious personality. He had his teeth pulled and our cattery staff quickly fell in love with the old man. He became particularly attached to cattery technician Katie, and the two were inseparable. Katie eventually helped Johan get adopted, but a few months later found him back in receiving due to not getting along with a baby in the home. She brought him home to see how he would react to her dogs, and he was a perfect fit! Johan’s superpower is head-butting, and Katie’s dogs are loving the affection. He has now found a loving home with Katie, although we think he knew he had a home in her all along.

Humane Ed Challenge

One important part of our mission is to educate our community about the humane treatment of animals, and we had a great opportunity to do that this past weekend at Mutt Masquerade! Over 20 children participated in our Truth or Treat challenge, where they could answer trivia about our shelter and win fun prizes. Kids were lined up at the humane education booth making fun crafts that were all geared toward learning more about what we do at the VBSPCA.

Cosmo

Birds are unique and fun pets! We loved Cosmo, our little parrot friend, and he was waiting for the perfect person to come along. However, this person didn’t know they were going to be adopting a bird. Cosmo’s new mom originally came in to the shelter to ask if we had any chinchillas, and Cosmo was able to catch her attention. She immediately fell in love with him and decided to give him a new home.

 

Questions That You Should Be Asking When You Adopt

You did it! You decided to save a life and adopt. You’re now at your local shelter — with no idea where to start.

Adopting from a shelter is a great decision and one that saves thousands of animals at the VBSPCA Shelter every year. However, it can be a confusing process when you are faced with a mountain of paperwork and an animal that may need a little extra love.

This article will be a great guide when navigating the adoption process and what you should expect. 

General Questions

Why should I adopt from the VBSPCA?
The medical care that shelter animals receive at the VBSPCA is unparalleled. Every single animal is checked out by our clinic staff upon arrival and receives a full vet exam prior to being adopted. Senior pets have bloodwork taken to give adopters a full snapshot of the animal’s health. In addition to the high level of medical care the animals receive at the VBSPCA, the staff and volunteers are dedicated to making sure every single animal receives love and attention.

Our adoption fees include a microchip, vaccines, a veterinary exam, and spay/neuter surgeries, when applicable. All puppy adoptions come with a voucher for four weeks of puppy training classes. You can find a full list of what is covered by our adoption fees here.

Why should I adopt from the VBSPCA instead of from a breeder?
Many breeders are humane and do things the right way. However, when you adopt from the VBSPCA, you are providing support to animals in need and preventing animal homelessness. When you adopt, you’re not only providing an animal a loving home, you’re making room at our shelter for another animal in need.  

What should I do if I plan on moving or deploying in the future?
While moving and deployment can be difficult, it doesn’t have to be the reason you give up your friend. Make sure that you have a plan in place on how you will transport your animal if you move. If you are being deployed, our shelter staff recommends having a plan in place for pet care before coming to adopt.

Is there any specific breed experience I need before adopting my pet?
Breed does not necessarily determine temperament, but there are some traits that are stronger in some breeds. Research is your best friend in this situation, and before adopting a specific breed, make sure that you are prepared to handle their temperament before making the commitment to bring them home. 

If you don’t have a specific breed in mind, our team is here to help! Our animal care technicians know each and every animal, so they can pair you with someone who will fit well in your home.

How much space do I need for my new friend?
Although you may want to give that cuddly Saint Bernard a great home, it may not be the ideal size for your two bedroom apartment. The VBSPCA team can help you find someone who will fit your home and lifestyle. 

What should I bring to the shelter when I am ready to put in an application?
You should bring with you a valid Photo ID, a copy of your mortgage statement, or lease stating your landlord’s Pet Policy and your landlord’s name and phone number. If you have other pets, bring in their vaccination records and your veterinarian’s name and phone number.

Other Questions

Cats

What allergies should I be aware of?
It’s not just cat hair allergies you have to watch out for! Some people discover they are sensitive to cat litter as well. However, most cat allergies are manageable and will get better with time. 

Will an older cat or younger cat be better for my living situation?
Kittens easily adapt to their new surroundings and usually adjust well to their new homes. Depending on their personality, older cats may need a specific type of household in order to thrive. Understanding what type of lifestyle you have will help in finding the right fit for your family. Our cattery team is here to help!

Dogs

Can I adopt siblings?
The VBSPCA typically does not allow siblings to be adopted together to prevent a pack mentality from forming. However, on rare occasions, we do allow bonded pairs to be adopted together due to their connection with the other dog. 

Since I am adopting from a shelter, does that mean my dog will be housebroken?
Not every dog from the VBSPCA will be house trained, but many of our older dogs will often have experience in homes.

If I already have a cat, how do I make sure the dog I am hoping to adopt will get along?
We will do a cat test with either a friendly or reactive cat and determine whether that specific dog can handle having a feline friend.

Do I need to crate train?
Crate training provides a dog with a safe space and peace of mind if you need to leave your home for short periods of time. While you are not required to crate your pet, it is a great tool to use. Our kennel team can walk you through the crate training process.

Small Animals

How much noise should I be prepared for?
Small animals make a lot of noise at night! Be prepared for a lot of scurrying and scratching.

How much of a time commitment is a small animal?
Some small animals, like hamsters, do not require a huge time commitment. Rabbits and guinea pigs, on the other hand, are very social creatures and have specific needs that take up time. 

How noisy is my home?
Noisy homes can stress out a small animal. Make sure your home is the right fit! 

Bonded Pairs

What are bonded pairs and what should I be prepared for?
Bonded pairs are two animals that have a special connection to each after spending a lot of time together. Many bonded pairs are opposites — one is standoffish and the other is extremely friendly. There is nothing wrong with this and that does not mean they should be separated. Be willing to open up your home to both of them because that will be the ideal situation for both animals!

October 2019 Volunteer Spotlight

In which area of the VBSPCA do you volunteer?

I started out cleaning the boxes in the cattery, and eventually I started cleaning the colonies which is what I enjoy the most.

Why did you choose to volunteer at the VBSPCA?

I don’t work and my husband is now retired military. We spent the last three years of his career in Japan, and I used to travel so much there, but when we got back to the states I had culture shock. Things are so different and you get used to the lifestyle. We got back and I became kind of a hermit. My husband saw that and told me ‘hey, you need to get out of the house and find something you enjoy.’ I love animals, and in January I was able to start volunteering here. 

What do you enjoy most about volunteering at the VBSPCA?

A little bit of everything. I really love the cats and being able to share what I know from working around them. I love seeing the cats go home and get adopted. I’m out of my hermit phase now and I’ve stopped staying at home so much. 

Fun fact?

I’m an anime fan, so I adopted a black cat from the VBSPCA and named her Gigi after the cat in Kiki’s Delivery Service.  

Any special animals that you would like to see get adopted?

I love all of the cats, but I know bonded pairs are sometimes here longer than others. Since they’ve been here, I’ve really fallen in love with Fred and Skunky. They’re great cats and would be perfect for someone who is older and looking for couch buddies.

If you are interested in volunteering at the Virginia Beach SPCA, click here.

Learning About Leashes — The Good, The Bad and The Ugly

Finding a good leash, collar, or harness for your dog can be extremely challenging. There are a variety of different tools to choose from, and some are better than others. We talked to one trainer to get a rundown of which are recommended and which ones should be avoided.

The Good

Flat Buckle Collar
Flat buckle collars are the most commonly used collar. You can find them in almost any store in a wide variety of colors which makes them popular among dog owners. This is a great tool for keeping your pet secure, but they do apply pressure to their trachea until they learn to walk politely on leash without pulling. Most pet owners do not realize this, but flat buckle collars are a potential choking hazard, and as such should not be left on while your pet is unattended or during play with other animals.

Martingale Collar (AKA the Humane Choke Chain, No Slip Collar, or Limited Slip Collar)
Martingale collars come in a wide variety of colors just like flat buckle collars, but are not as common. This is a preferred collar for dog breeds that have narrower heads than necks such as Greyhounds, Salukis, and Whippets. Unlike flat buckle collars, martingale collars have a small loop that contains a D ring to attach your leash to. When a dog pulls or tries to back out of the collar, it tightens around the dog’s neck, constricting just enough to keep the dog contained making it a great tool for dogs who may be a flight risk. Due to the size of the loop, martingale collars can only tighten to a certain degree, unlike choke chains which have no safety mechanism to prevent choking.

Front Clip Harnesses
The front clip harness is a great tool for anyone who has a dog struggling with their on leash manners. Similar to the martingale collar, there is a loop with a D ring, but it aligns with the breast bone. This loop, when a dog pulls, causes them to swing back around towards your legs away from what they were pulling towards. This type of harness is not ideal for dogs who are broad or square chested.

Freedom Harnesses
Freedom Harnesses feature a two point leash system, giving you more control over your dog. This type of harness is preferred over the front clip harness for dogs who are broad or square chested. This harness is also great for dogs who can escape other equipment. The idea behind this harness is similar to the front clip harness in the fact that it helps maneuver the dog back around to you when it pulls. This makes it a great tool for dogs working on their leash manners. Unfortunately, you will not find this harness in any standard pet store so you will need to seek it out online if you are interested in purchasing it.

Back Clip Harness
Back clip harnesses are great for dogs who are a flight risk or can slip out of other equipment. There’s a reason mushers use back clip harnesses for their dogs pulling sleds, and the reason is the oppositional reflex. The oppositional reflex in laymen terms means there is a force pulling the dog one way making it want to pull in the opposite direction. Due to this, it is not a tool recommended for dogs who are working on their leash manners.

Harness Lead (AKA Figure 8 Harness)
Harness leads are another great tool for dogs who may be a flight risk or can slip out of other equipment. It can also be used as a slip lead making it a versatile tool.

Traffic Leashes
Traffic leashes are a great tool when working with difficult to control dogs or reactive dogs. This type of leash has not one, but two handles giving you more control on the distance between you and your dog.

Chain Leashes
Chain leashes are usually made out of rust resistant metal, which makes them a great choice for dogs who may chew through a normal nylon leash.

Head Halter/Collar (AKA the Gentle Leader)
Head halters are a great tool for controlling dogs, extra-large dogs, and reactive dogs. Head halters are very similar to the halters used on horses as they both use pressure points to give more control over the animal. However, you must give your dog time to desensitize it before use or they may injure themselves by trying to scratch/rub it off.

The Bad

Citronella Collars
Citronella collars are considered a form of punishment and have a long lasting effect. Unfortunately, this type of collar delivers a lingering spray of citronella when it detects certain behavior (i.e. barking) or is remotely activated. As stated, the citronella lingers even after the behavior has stopped, and due to this the dog can learn to associate the aversive smell of citronella with other things besides the unwanted behavior.

Flexi Lead (aka Retractable leashes)
Flexi leads can be a great tool when working on recalls but can also be a safety hazard. This type of leash can cause rope burns and lacerations. This can occur if the leash gets wrapped around you or your dog and he/she takes off. Another risk of this type of leash is delayed reaction times due to the distance between yourself and your dog. For example, your dog is 15-26 feet away from you and approaches a dog who is not dog friendly, it could result in a scuffle. Because of the distance, you cannot safely get your dog out of the way in time. If this is a tool you do decide to use, always be conscious of your surroundings and of the people/animals around you.

The Ugly

Choke Chain
Choke chains are a controversial training tool, and you will most likely hear different opinions from a variety of dog trainers regarding their use. This is a commonly used training tool when showing dogs as it helps keep the dog’s head held high. A proper fitting Choke Chain will sit high on the neck just behind the ears, but some users of this training tool are uneducated or misinformed on the proper placement. This could lead to a higher chance of creating a harmful or even deadly situation. Unlike the martingale collar, choke chains do not have a safety mechanism. This means that they can continue to tighten to the point it chokes your dog. This is considered a form of punishment and as such there is an increased risk that use of this item could lead to more severe behavior issues.

Prong Collars (AKA the Pinch Collar)
Prong collars are another controversial training tool in the dog training world. Just like the choke chain, you will hear different opinions from different dog trainers. This training tool, in the wrong hands, can be dangerous and cause injury to your dog (not just physical, but mental as well). Prong collars, when properly fitted, should sit directly behind the ears, but some users of this training tool are uneducated or misinformed on the proper placement. It is very common to see Prong Collars sitting low on the neck, but this can lead to potential injury. This is another form of punishment, and as such there is an increased risk that use of this item could lead to more severe behavior issues.

Modified Prong Collars
Modified prong collars are not much different from regular prong collars. The difference lies in the material that is used to make the product and the fact it does not pinch as much. Modified prong collars are usually made out of hard plastic. This alternative option may not look as dangerous, but they are still a form of punishment, and as such there is an increased risk that use of this item could create other more severe behavior issues.

Electronic Collars
Electronic collars are one of the most controversial training tools in the dog training world. Just like the choke chain and prong collar, you will get different viewpoints from different trainers. This is another training tool that, in the wrong hands, can be dangerous and cause injury to your dog (not just physical, but mental as well). Electronic collars can be activated remotely and/or detect when a dog is performing an unwanted behavior (i.e. barking). When the electronic collar is activated, it delivers a beep, vibrate, and/or shock. It is considered a form of punishment and as such there is an increased risk that use of this item could lead to more severe behavior issues.

Please see the AVSAB’s (American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior) stance on punishment to learn more about why punishment is not the answer or solution to your pets training.

VBSPCA Shares Why Black Cats Are Pawsome

One of the most popular symbols of Halloween is the black cat. However, besides being associated with all things spooky, black cats are also connected to bad luck.

“They’re absolutely gorgeous creatures and the fact that we have superstitions about them because of their hair color doesn’t really make any sense,” said Emily, who personally owns three black cats and is the source of endless black cat factoids.

This negative connotation has led to the stigma surrounding black cats and many false superstitions to be spread. Black cats also have a higher rate of mistreatment in the month of October. Education and support are small ways to ensure that every black cat has a good home.

Superstition History:

According to Historic Mysteries, superstitions surrounding black cats began in the Middle Ages. People believed that they were a sign that death would follow and that if one crossed your path it meant bad luck. This quickly spread throughout the region and some cultures still believe it to this day.

Unfortunately, this has also caused black cats to be mistreated and a higher rate of black cat euthanization. But the truth is that black cats are pretty awesome! While adopting any cat is a great thing to do, black cats have a couple of traits that make them extra special.

Black Cat Superpowers:

Researchers at the National Institute of Health discovered that the genetic mutation that causes black fur is in the same family that causes HIV resistance in humans. This gene may help doctors learn more about how to prevent and the deadly disease.

Black cats are also color changers! If they enjoy lounging in the sun and have a tabby stripe gene, black cats can show their stripes and turn a rusty brown color.

Why They Make Great Companions:

The VBSPCA staff also believes that another black cat superpower is being a great companion, and many of us have adopted a house panther into our homes.

“I adopted Frankie three days after I was officially hired on at the VBSPCA,” said staff member Ashley. “I’ve always wanted to rescue a black cat, there seems to be a negative stigma surrounding them when in reality they are the best companions. My husband is active duty military and is gone a lot, so Frankie has saved me by being my antidepressant. Wherever I go, she goes.”

Mabel is another black cat that has made a pawsitive impact in her owner’s life. 

“I feel like sometimes black cats don’t stand out when you’re scanning the shelter, but if their personality matches with your family, they can make amazing pets,” said Jessica. “My black cat, Mabel, always tries to take care of any bottle-fed foster kittens we bring home and is so affectionate.” 

If you would like to get to know some of our adoptable black cats and maybe adopt one into your home, come visit us at the VBSPCA.

Puppy Training Tips

It is a common misconception that there are age limitations to training our canine family members. A dog is never too young or too old to learn a new trick. But, before you get started, here are a few key things to keep in mind: 

  • Nothing is more vital than maintaining a positive relationship with your puppy. Please do not use any method of punishment with your puppy despite any frustrations during the training process. Studies have shown that it can lead to more severe behavior issues. Please refer to the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior’s (AVSAB) stance on punishment to learn more.
  • Keep training sessions short — no more than 10 minutes. Keep in mind, puppies have short attention spans much like a young child. Your puppy may need frequent breaks in order to focus on the task at hand. Every animal is an individual and training session durations may vary. It is important to stop a training session before your puppy gets bored. 
  • Finally, the most important thing to keep in mind is to be patient and have fun!

At Home Puppy Training Tips

  • One of the biggest things to focus on with your puppy is socialization. Exposing your puppy to as many sounds, sights, people, textures, and other sensory experiences is a key component to having a well-mannered/well-rounded adult dog. Pair these new things with a rewarding items such as toys, treats, pets, etc. Your new puppy should soon learn to associate these new things with rewarding items. Keep things as positive as possible and go at your puppy’s pace. Once your puppy is comfortable with something, work on exposing them to those things in different environments.
  • We have all been exposed to those up and coming daggers known as puppy teeth. Mouthing is something that many puppies need to work on. Bite inhibition is the ability to control how hard you bite. It is very important your puppy learn this, as this is how you avoid your puppy drawing blood when mouthing/biting you or when taking treat from your hand. This is a skill that can save your puppy in the future if he/she is ever put into a situation where they are “pushed” to bite. An easy way to work on bite inhibition is to say “ouch” and remove attention away from the puppy for a few seconds. Please keep in mind though we only want to do this if your puppy is biting too hard right now.  Putting things in their mouths is how they explore their world. Continue to play with your puppy, but if he/she continues to bite at you, remove yourself from the room. When he/she has calmed down you may interact with your puppy again. We want puppies to learn that biting too hard is not a rewarding behavior. This will take time and continuous repetition, so be patient and do not give up. You can survive puppy biting.
  • A fun and interactive way to get involved with training is to use a clicker. It’s never too early to begin using a clicker with your pet. To begin you will want to “load” the clicker. This simply means you click and treat in rapid succession until you can see the metaphorical lightbulb pop up above your puppies head going “click=treat.” Once your puppy has that eureka moment, you can begin to use the clicker to capture behaviors such as keeping all four paws on the ground when greeting people, remaining quiet, walking nicely on leash, checking in on walks, and other desirable behaviors. If you do not have a clicker available, you may use a designated word to mark the behaviors you want instead.
  • Puppy pads, potty breaks, and the constant agony of ”where is that smell coming from?” Let’s be honest, puppy house training can be one of the biggest headaches for pet owners. It is important to note that puppies, compared to adult dogs, have a much smaller bladder and will need to go out more frequently. The general rule of thumb for puppies is that they can hold their bladder for 1 hour per month old (ex. 2 month old puppy = 2 hours), but it is important to keep in mind that just like us, all puppies are individuals and may not be able to hold it quite as long. One of the most recommended ways to house train is by using a crate. Dogs naturally seek den-like spaces and do not want to lay or eat where they urinate or defecate. By using a crate, you’re not only giving your puppy a safe place to go when he/she needs a break, but you are also getting a place to put your puppy when you cannot supervise them. Unsupervised puppies are more likely to have accidents or get into things that we do not want them getting into. 

    To start off you will want to pick a crate that is just big enough that your puppy can stand up in and turn around. Next, you will want to make the crate as positive as possible. You can do this by feeding your puppies meals in the crate without closing the door. Once your puppy is comfortable with going into the crate, you can begin closing the door for a few seconds and then rewarding him with an extra tasty treat. Ideally, you will want to continue to increase the duration you leave the door closed. Soon your puppy will learn that crating is a positive experience. It should also be noted that if you are leaving your puppy in the crate, you should provide some form of enrichment for them (i.e. chew toys, puppy Kong, etc.). 

    If you need to crate your puppy for longer periods of time it is recommended that you enlist the help of a dog walker, friend, or family member to give your puppy potty breaks so that accidents can be avoided.

  • While house training, it is important to get into a regular routine. The first thing you should do when you wake up is take your puppy out. This should also be the last thing you do before you go to bed. Puppies should go out after eating, drinking, napping, and play sessions. Always reward your puppy for going to the bathroom in appropriate areas. If your puppy does have an accident in the home, be sure to clean up the mess with an enzymatic remover. If an enzymatic remover is not used, your puppy may go back to the same spot to urinate or defecate again.

Training a new puppy can be time consuming and take a good deal of effort, but with a bit of repetition and patience you can easily set your puppy up for success. Good luck!

Wildlife Dos and Don’ts

If you’ve found injured wildlife, call the VBSPCA Wildlife Referral line at 757-263-4762 for assistance. You may also use the following dos and don’ts to determine if and when you need to intervene.

PRINTABLE WILDLIFE DOS AND DON’TS GRAPHIC

When to help:

  • If you find an orphaned baby animal that is not fully covered with feathers/fur or has pink skin showing through, this animal needs to be rescued. Never leave a sick or injured animal exposed in the yard. Get them inside to safety and get help.
  • If you find an injured or orphaned animal and there are predators or other immediate dangers present, this animal needs help. Predators include cats, dogs, crows, blue jays (or other omnivorous birds), unsupervised children, etc. Examples of immediate danger also include animals near a road or water. Move the animal to safety first, then watch to see if it is okay or in need of rescue.
  • An animal needs to be rescued quickly when there is visible blood or other obvious signs of trauma. Also, the presence of flies or fly eggs means there is blood or infection.
  • Any wildlife that is injured is in need of assistance, please call our referral hotline. Our volunteers will guide you through the next steps and can provide you with resources for seeking care for wildlife if needed.

If it’s been determined that help is needed, adhere to the following stabilization instructions to give wildlife the best environment for temporary care:

  • Place the animal in a small box. Make sure that the box has adequate ventilation by punching small air holes in the top before placing the animal inside. Line the box with a hand towel or clean rag (do not use paper towels), and place the secured box (tape the top if necessary) in a warm, dry, dark, and quiet location away from people and pets.
  • Avoid constantly checking on the animal. Stress can be detrimental to their health and can cause further injury.
  • Please follow common-sense precautions for your own safety, such as washing your hands thoroughly after handling wildlife.
  • Many people are afraid to handle wildlife, even tiny babies. If you are nervous, gently drop a cloth over the baby and gently scoop him up. Take any other precautions as necessary for personal protection.

What Not to Do:

  • NEVER Provide Food or Water. Feeding an injured, cold, or dehydrated animal can cause serious medical complications, including death. Please do not try to give food or water unless you are instructed to do so by a wildlife rehabilitator.
  • Do Not DIY. While it may be tempting to search online, not all information is created equal. Please do not be tempted to “do-it-yourself” with wildlife care and treatment. Wildlife has very special needs and require more than good intentions.
  • Do Not Treat Wildlife as Pets. Never consider keeping wildlife as a pet! Not only is it illegal, it is also cruel. This can cause wildlife to depend on humans and not learn how to fend for themselves, reducing chances of survival in the wild and increasing the likelihood of being harmed by other humans and/or roadways. All local wildlife is protected by the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries, and birds are also protected by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
  • Do Not Delay. Please get the animal to professional help right away. Time is critical, and even a delay of an hour can prevent wildlife from being saved. Follow stabilization information for immediate care and then transport the wildlife as soon as possible.
  • Do Not Handle Wildlife More Than Necessary. Excess handling of wildlife may cause further injury, as well as creating extra stress on them. Creating undue stress also includes repeatedly “checking” on wildlife unnecessarily. This can be more difficult when children are around and want to help. Teaching children to be kind to wildlife is a wonderful thing; however, it is very important to the wellbeing of wildlife to reduce as much stress as possible and keep wildlife in a quiet, dark space. Stress can be fatal in some cases, so reducing human sights and sounds is best.

 

For more information, please visit vbspca.com/wildlife

How to Reduce Leash Pulling

Leash pulling is one of the most common frustrations expressed by pet owners. Dogs that pull can difficult to manage, leaving many pet owners unable to provide their dogs with the exercise, stimulation, and enrichment they need. While leash pulling may seem more like a frustration than a behavior problem, it should be addressed and corrected as soon as possible to prevent more difficult issues from developing.

You will find a number pet products out there that claim to fix the pulling behavior; however nothing will completely solve the problem without actual training. Below are a few tips to help get you started with the training process. If you need further support, we suggest contacting one of our recommended dog trainers.

Pick Your Equipment
The Harness Lead and the Easy Walk Harness are both great choices. The Harness Lead is a leash and a harness all in one, and the Easy Walk offers an easily attachable harness that clips at the dog’s chest, essentially turning them around when they attempt to lunge. For stronger pullers, a head collar may be appropriate. This works similarly to a bridle on a horse, but must be used carefully and acclimated slowly. 

Teaching A Heel Command
Once you’re ready, it’s time to begin teaching your dog that good things happen when they walk at your side. Try walking just one or two steps, stop to reward your dog, and then repeat. It is important that you reward your dog with the hand that is closest to your dog as it helps train and reinforce where he is supposed to walk. For example, if your dog is walking on your right side, offer the treat from your right hand. This will help reinforce your dog to come back to the location of the treat, ultimately walking on the same side and with a loose leash. Continue this reward exercise, slowly fading away the treats as your dog becomes more and more reliable.

How To Address Pulling
Pulling is very simple in nature. All it means is that your dog wants to get to to a destination faster than you are allowing him to. Why does your dog pull? Because it has worked in the past. We fight it, which reinforces the pulling, so we give in, which also reinforces the pulling. You have to retrain a new behavior to override the existing behavior. To do this, you have two choices. First, when the leash begins to gets tense, abruptly change direction and head another way. When your dog joins you at your side, reward him. Your other option is to stop completely and back up until your dog is back at your side again. Reward, and then move forward.

This is not easy training, but it works. For pet parents who train using this technique, it works permanently. Consistent training sessions of no more than 5 – 10 minutes are all it takes to have a dog that walks beautifully on leash.

Derby Brackett, CEO

There’s a saying I seem to remember more than most over the years…’The only constant is change.’ Throughout the years, the VBSPCA has been recognized as a constant in our community despite the multitude of external changes. This past year was a tribute to that saying as the organization worked through an unexpected leadership transition. From the beginning of our organizational shift, Derby Brackett has been another constant.  Derby is a former VBSPCA Board member who initially volunteered to assume the reins of the organization as our Interim CEO. Through this past year, she has gone above and beyond, exceeded the Board’s expectations, and united the staff like never before. While our focus, of course, is the animals in our shelter, the clinic, and the community, without our BOD and staff’s support and efforts, the animals we serve day in and day out wouldn’t be able to receive the treatment, rehabilitation, and attention they deserve. Derby’s influence, guidance, and leadership is to thank for our recent success. It’s my distinct pleasure to announce Mrs. Derby Brackett as our new Chief Executive Officer. This change has brought a constant to our organization and we couldn’t be more excited about our future.  -Scott Taylor, VBSPCA Board Chair

After serving for one year as Interim CEO of the VBSPCA, Derby Brackett has stepped into the position permanently. Brackett is originally from Richmond, Virginia, but she’s been a Virginia Beach resident since 2017. As the Chief Executive Officer of the VBSPCA, she will bring vision and stability to the organization while continuing to further and serve the mission that has guided the VBSPCA for over 50 years. Her most recent professional experience includes 10 years in an executive role at Goodwill of Central and Coastal Virginia. Prior to that, Derby worked with Ukrop’s Supermarkets, a family owned, values based grocery leader in Richmond. Her experience is based in project management, communications and advocacy, and servant leadership, with a firm focus on strategic visioning, solutions grounded business, and community impact. She also serves as a member of the board of the LIFT Fitness Foundation and is an active member of 757 Angels.

While in her 12 month stint as Interim CEO, Derby established clear values for the organization, and her groundwork will be a guiding force in all that lies ahead for the animals and people of the VBSPCA. The Virginia Beach community can look forward to an animal shelter driven by empathy, compassion, dedication, collaboration, innovation, and joy, all pillars of an organization that seeks to serve.  

Derby enjoys all outdoor activities including running, biking, skiing, walking the dog, and, lately, has tried paddle boarding. But most of all, loves spending time with her husband, Doug, and extended family including her black lab, Rainey Storm.

“I feel that I have come full circle in my career- making the transition from human services to animal welfare provides me with great opportunity to provide leadership and create impact in an arena in which I have been most passionate since childhood. I can put my BS in Zoology as well as my long-time values-based leadership skills to work together! I am humbled and honored to serve the skilled staff, engaged Board of Directors, and most of all, the animals in our care.”  -Derby Brackett

To contact Derby Brackett, send an email to ceo@vbspca.com.

Lethal Lilies

Did you know certain flowers are lethal to your pets? Before you bring those beautiful blooms inside, be sure your four-legged family members are safe! One of the most popular flowers this time of year is also the most toxic: Easter lilies. Here’s what you need to know about these lethal lilies.

Lilies
Toxic to: Cats
Level of toxicity: Moderate to severe
The most dangerous lilies for cats are “true lilies” from the Lilium and Hemerocallis species. Benign lilies, like Peace, Peruvian, and Calla lilies, are still moderately toxic to your cat but not as dangerous. Examples of lethal lilies include:

  • Easter lilies
  • Asiatic hybrid lilies
  • Japanese show lilies
  • Rubrum lilies
  • Stargazer lilies
  • Red lilies
  • Tiger lilies
  • Western lilies
  • Wood lilies (Lilium species)
  • Daylilies (Hemerocallis species)
  • Even small ingestions – including pollen or water from the vase – may result in severe, acute kidney failure.

Common signs to watch for:

  • Low or no appetite
  • Lethargy and/or hiding
  • Vomiting
  • Drooling
  • Increased or decreased thirst or urination
  • Diarrhea
  • Painful abdomen
  • Difficulty breathing

If you suspect your cat may have ingested any part of a lily, or any other potentially toxic substance, immediately take them (and the plant) to your veterinarian or local emergency vet as soon as possible for treatment.

24/7 Hotlines are also available:

  • Animal Poison Control Center (APCC): 888-426-4435 ($65 consultation fee may apply)
  • Pet Poison Helpline: 855-764-7661 ($59 per incident fee applies)