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

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!

Community is one of our core values, which includes being an integral and critical partner in animal welfare throughout the region of Hampton Roads. The importance of community was so very evident in our mission, operations, staff, and public throughout 2022. This value resonates loudly today as we recognize the challenges that we are all facing with the growing animal homeless population in our region. 

All of our shelters and animal control operations are dealing with overcrowding and decreasing adoption rates – as is the national trend. We work hard to protect the health of the animals and find them their deserving second chances. The work has been overwhelming the past few months but our animal welfare network has collaborated to find solutions whenever we can. Requests for help come in daily, and we each try our best to answer the call. The community of those committed to providing the best care for our animals is vast and strong; the collaboration is critical. This focus will carry us into 2023 as we continue to share information, best practices, and resources with our shelter partners.

Community is also found within our own shelter. Our community of associates working together for the animals has never been stronger. Collectively, we pool resources and knowledge for the sustainable care of the animals from intake to adoption and beyond. Our staff has seen over 23,000 visitors and completed over 2000 adoptions… and that doesn’t include the multiple steps taken in between. It takes efficient communication, supportive attitudes, strong work ethics, trust, and collaboration for our internal community to deliver our mission daily.

Our public clinic has returned to our philosophy of providing services to those that need us most by re-implementing our income cap of $65,000 for clients. We are a critical service provider for the health of our community with quality veterinary care that is accessible and affordable. Our talented staff not only strives to heal the animals that are ill, but also educates pet parents on the need for wellness care of all of our animals. Our doors are open to provide resources to our community, our partners, and our shelter.

With the support of our donors, guided by our development and marketing teams, we resurfaced for our community events. Such great joy – and a good deal of fun – was evident at our Wags and Whiskers Gala, Puttin’ for Paws Charity Golf Tournament, and Howl-O-Ween Pub Crawl this year. The community came together in celebration of the animals and was reminded of the importance of our mission for the humans who love them. These events are significant to our funding and the community recognition of our need is critical. Longtime supporters and new friends joined together to bring hope and compassion to light.

Hope and dedication brings us to the close of the current year and the beginning of the new. The business planning for 2023 as well as strategic visioning for 2023-2026 are surrounded, driven, and supported by our communities – internal and external. Our operational goals will be aggressive in order to fill the needs and, in return, our ask of support from our community will be strong. Regardless of your role in our community, we need you. Your commitment to us allows us the privilege to stay committed to the animals. Together, we can build each other up and do more.

We are grateful and proud to be a part of your community as we move forward to 2023.

Derby