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. In May 2021, Midge was transferred to the VBSPCA by another animal shelter as a tiny kitten. She was placed in a foster home until she was healthy and strong enough for the adoption process. It was right around that time that Jon and Diana decided to visit the shelter. We recently caught up with Diana to get Midge’s full adoption story.

When did you adopt Midge?

July 22, 2021

How did you find Midge?

Jon wanted a kitten and searched and searched. He would find one but POOF! it would get snapped up very quickly (as so many kittens do.) So he decided to just pop in to the VBSPCA for a visit and check things out in person. And there was Midge.

How is Midge doing in the home?

Wonderfully!!!! She made herself right at home immediately (despite the fact that there were already 2 adult, female cats in our home) and she’s ruled the roost ever since.

What sort of activities do you and Midge do together?

Everything! She loves to “supervise” our cooking and cleaning and doing the laundry. She helps Jon feed our birds every morning. And she always helps scoop poop.

How has Midge enriched your lives so far?

Jon was diagnosed with cancer in March 2021 and Midge helped keep his spirits up through chemotherapy. [A happy update: Jon is now cancer free!] She’s funny and sweet and fearless and fun and makes us laugh throughout each and every day. Midge has even managed to bring our other two cats out of their shells – we’ve seen a dramatic change in their activity levels. They actually play now! Midge makes friends with everyone who walks through our door and we’ve even taken her on play dates with friends’ and family’s cats!

Does Midge have any funny quirks?

Known as “Midge The Mighty Kibble Hunter”, Midge “hunts” her kibble. She won’t just stand at the bowl and eat it straight from it. Nope…she stalks the bowl and digs out one piece at a time sending it skittering across the kitchen floor. Then she chases it down and pounces on it. Sometimes she sends it under the rug and then stalks it and chases it. As soon as she eats her “kill” she starts the hunting process all over again with another, single piece of kibble.

She also hunts bugs like no other – no matter how small or fast, if there’s a bug of any sort within a mile of Midge it’s a goner.

And any bag, no matter the size or shape – and this includes ladies’ purses – will get investigated by her. During Jon’s treatment, nurses would come to the house for post-surgery visits, and Midge would crawl in their purses and backpacks.

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

By taking home your new pet, you also make room at the shelter for another animal with nowhere else to go.

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. Arlo arrived at the VBSPCA in December 2021 when his previous owners moved and could not take him with them. Just a few days later, Ali and her husband, Steve, stopped by the shelter in hopes of adopting a dog. When they saw the two year old Basset Hound heading out for a walk, they knew they had to meet him. As Ali says, “Bassets in general are hard to resist!” We recently caught up with Ali, who filled us in on how things are going from Arlo’s perspective as well!

How is Arlo doing in the home?

Arlo is fantastic at home! His first few nights were a bit bumpy as he needed reassurance that we were still there when he would wake up at 2am or so, but he had only one accident and settled into a routine very quickly. We are lucky to have a fenced-in backyard, and he spends lots of time roaming and following the smells of squirrels that run all over our yard.

What sort of activities do you and Arlo do together?

Arlo loves other dogs and is amazing at matching energy levels of all kinds and ages. This means we try and take him everywhere. We especially love the farmers market, where he always grabs attention and pets from every being willing to say hi.

Does Arlo have any funny quirks?

One of Arlo’s silliest traits is looking up at you over his back. He doesn’t turn his head, he just lifts his chin until he’s looking at you upside down. All his Basset wrinkles fall the other direction and it must feel good or funny to him – he does it so often. He is also very true to his breed: when he catches a scent, he barks at the ground to alert us. He doesn’t bark when we get home or for much else, but we know when he’s got a smell trail to follow.

How has Arlo enriched your lives so far?

It’s truly like Arlo has been with us his whole life. He just fit right into our routines and loves to be right next to us wherever we go. He is a great pick-me-up on a stressful day and makes me get up from my desk and go outside, even if it’s just for a minute. Dear friends of ours recently lost their 14 year old Pitbull and we were hit pretty hard by it. But Arlo helped their dog play a bit more in her last few months and enjoy her toys again. He has provided us all unconditional love to heal from the recently stressful times and keeps us social, even if we don’t really want to be.

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

Arlo isn’t our first rescue and every pet comes with their own personality and traits to adjust to, but each time it feels like they know you rescued them. They are grateful and know that you just want to love them. There is a pet for every lifestyle – talk to the staff about personalities, know what traits you don’t think you can handle, but most of all stay open to considering the unexpected. Treat the pet well and you will receive more than you expected in return.

A note from Arlo:

My parents really needed me. They needed someone to get them outside, to play more, and to bring more joy to every day! When my new friend (the 14 year old Pitbull mentioned above) passed away, I cuddled everyone as much as I possibly could. They needed all the hugs I could give. Also, who was going to protect the backyard?!

Shelter pets are the coolest – you choose us and we choose you back! We may take time to warm up to you, but once we know we’re there to stay, we’ll love you forever!

While our pets cannot talk, they can communicate a lot through their body language. A dog or cat’s tail is an especially important tool to convey how they are feeling. By paying attention to your furry friend’s tail, you can easily tell whether they’re up for playing and meeting new people or instead need some space or reassurance. Read more below and click here for a printable version of our infographic.

Cat Tail Language

• Upright Tail: Your cat is feeling confident, alert, and friendly. If the tip of their tail twitches when it is straight up in the air, your feline is feeling particularly happy.
• Swishing Slowly: If your cat is moving their tail slowly from side to side, it means he is focused on an object such as a toy. They’ll likely pounce on that item!
• Whipping Tail: A cat that is whipping their tail back and forth is agitated. You should consider this a warning to stay away.
• Puffy Tail: Cats puff up their tails when they are afraid. By raising their fur, they are making themselves look bigger to scare off whatever is making them fearful.
• Pulled Close: Another indicator of fear is when a cat pulls their tail closely into their body or wraps it around their feet.

Dog Tail Language

• Wagging Loosely: When a dog is wagging their tail loosely from side to side or in a circular motion, they are relaxed, friendly, and happy. The tail is typically held in a neutral position.
• Straight Out: If a dog is holding their tail horizontally behind them, they are attentive and curious. Hunting breeds also hold their tails this way when they are pointing out an animal or object.
• Vertical Wag: If your dog’s tail is straight up with quick, small wags, your dog is alert and may be feeling aggressive or threatened. Give them space, especially if this type of wagging is paired with raised fur on their back and/or tail, staring, growling, lunging, or barking.
• Tucked Tail: Your dog is afraid. Tucking the tail is one of the ways dogs try to make themselves smaller when they feel threatened.

It is extremely important not to ignore what your pet is trying to tell you through his tail or other body language. Never punish your pet for giving warning signs that they are agitated or afraid. Paying close attention to their communication methods like tail language and growling is essential to preventing animal bites!

Keeping your pet’s food and water bowls clean is just as important as providing your furry friend with fresh food and water each day. You wouldn’t eat off the same plate or drink out of the same glass without washing it day after day, and neither should your pet. Yet a recent study found that most pet parents don’t follow recommendations from the Food and Drug Administration that are designed to keep pets, and their people, healthy.

What’s Lurking in the Bowls
Have you ever noticed a layer of slime in your pet’s water bowl? That’s not drool, that’s a bunch of bacteria that has bound together. The bacteria from an animal’s mouth can be transferred to the bowls while eating or drinking, and the bowls are a good environment for the bacteria to multiply. The bacteria left in a pet’s water or food bowl can not only make them sick, it could also cause illness in the human who handles their bowls.

Preventing Illness
It only takes a few extra minutes to prevent illness in your pet, and you! Here are some tips from the FDA to keep those food and water bowls clean.

• Wash Daily
  Wash food and water bowls daily in warm, soapy water. At least once a week, put them in the dishwasher to fully sterilize them. Be sure to have a designated washcloth or sponge that you use on your pet’s dishes that is separate from the one you use for human dishes.
• Have a Separate Scoop
  Never use your pet’s food bowl to scoop out their food. Instead, use a cup, scoop, or spoon so that you’re not contaminating their food with any bacteria from their bowl.
• Keep Hands Clean
  Wash your hands before and after you handle your pet’s food or bowls.

When it comes to picking out your pet’s bowls, experts recommend stainless steel. Plastic food and water bowls are more likely to get scratched, which can make it easier for bacteria to develop. Glass and ceramic bowls can also be good options, but make sure you double check for cracks or chips and that the glaze used on the bowl is certified for food use.

Food Storage Safety
Storing your pet’s food properly is also important for preventing sickness. All food should be stored in a closed container, and wet food should be stored in the refrigerator once it has been opened. While plastic storage bins are the most popular choice for dry food, be sure your container is BPA-free. Stainless steel is also a great option for storage bins since they are durable and easy to clean. It is recommended that you wash and dry storage containers before refilling them with any new food. 

By keeping bowls clean and storing food safely, your pet will be much less likely to get sick!

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. In September 2021, a female cat and her seven kittens arrived at our shelter. The feline family members spent a couple of months in a foster home until they were ready to be adopted. Once they returned in December, Christy and her family fell in love with kitten in particular: CoCo. We recently caught up with Christy for an update on CoCo.

When did you adopt CoCo?

CoCo was officially adopted on December 30, 2021.

How did you find CoCo?

My sister adopted from the VBSPCA several years earlier. She had a great experience there and we thought ‘why not go there’. We were open to adoption, kitten or adult. We were the first that day to view the kittens and the whole family went. We settled on CoCo because she was curious and friendly. This is important because our daughter is active and CoCo would need to acclimate well with her.

How is CoCo doing in the home?

CoCo knows tricks, likes to sit and roll (for a belly rub). My kids say she is super sweet to all she meets. She loves to play with her tunnels and catnip filled fish. She is one of the best things to happen to our family. We love her!!!

Does CoCo have any funny quirks?

We bought all the necessities for a kitten, but the cat palace [cat tree] gifted by my sister is her favorite thing. Coco loves being above all of us. We also call it the lair. She will periodically take items back to her lair: pens, pencils, lip balm, hair scrunchies, receipts, anything she can carry or push/pull with her paws. She is a collector. Once we clean it out, she will go around and collect other items.

She is also a box hopper. Any empty box she hops in – she hops from one to another. I grew up with all kinds of animals. Having a cat was a new experience for my own family who only knew dogs. My family adores CoCo. She has brought us together in so many ways. My teenage son always says “she’s just so cute.”

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

All animals need love, respect, and a home. Adopting an animal is important because you are making a conscious choice to open your heart, mind, and home to a wonderful experience.

Who can resist a dog with large eyes and an adorable smooshed-in face? These types of dogs, known as brachycephalic breeds, require special care. By learning more about their unique needs, you can keep your pet safe, happy, and healthy.

Breathing Challenged Breeds
The word brachycephalic simply means “short headed”, which is a perfect description for their stout noses and flat faces. Common brachycephalic breeds include:

• Pugs
• Bulldogs
• French Bulldogs
• Boxers
• Shih Tzus
• Pekingese
• Boston Terriers

Because of their short snouts, flat-faced breeds can have a hard time breathing. They are also more susceptible to heat stroke and overheating.

Know Your Dog’s Limits
While many flat-faced dogs enjoy long, happy lives, there are things you can do to head off potential issues for your pet.

• Keep your pet cool.
  Warm, humid weather can make breathing especially difficult for your pet. Be sure to keep them cool, especially during the summer. If you are outside with your dog, keep them in the shade and provide plenty of water.
• Don’t overdo it with exercise.
  Regular exercise, such as going for a walk and playing, is important for any dog. However, you should always pay attention to how heavily your dog is breathing. If your pet seems to be having a hard time catching their breath, stop for a rest on your walk or take a break from playing.
• Be careful around water.
  Brachycephalic breeds are also not suited for swimming. Their large chests can make them more likely to tire easily and put them at an increased risk of sinking. Keep a close eye on them and consider using a dog life jacket.
• Keep your dog at a healthy weight.
  Extra pounds can make it even harder for flat-faced breeds to breathe. Monitor your dog’s weight and consult with your veterinarian about any changes you may need to make to your dog’s diet.

It is also important to pay attention to any changes in your dog’s breathing patterns. If your pet is abnormally wheezing, coughing, or snorting, make an appointment with your veterinarian.

Though your pet is predisposed to unique health issues, flat-faced dogs are undoubtedly cute companions. With careful attention and regular vet visits, both you and your pup will breathe easier knowing they are protected from potential problems.

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. Dragon was one of 33 dogs taken in by the VBSPCA from a hoarding situation on the Eastern Shore in October 2021. The dogs were frightened, filthy, and covered in fleas. Dragon had never been outside or been introduced to new people, and he was used to living with dozens of other canine companions. Because of his background, he was extremely shy and would need time and patience to adjust to a new environment.

A woman named Renee happened to come across Dragon’s picture and knew she had to meet him. On December 17, 2021, Dragon got his second chance. We recently caught up with Renee for the full story and an update on Dragon.

How did you find Dragon?

I’m the general manager at My Vegan Sweet Tooth (a long-time supporter of the VBSPCA). Every Christmas, we do an SPCA angel tree and his photo was hanging on the tree. I saw that little face and immediately knew.

How is Dragon doing in the home?

He’s acclimated well! He’s still very scared of new people, but we’ve formed an inseparable bond. He loves to snuggle and play with [my dog] Muffin. He loves running around in the backyard.

What sort of activities do you and Dragon do together?

We play in the yard, snuggle and watch movies, lots of petting time. We’re working our way up to walks outside the comfort of the house still, but every day he’s better and better.

Does Dragon have any funny quirks?

He’s so clumsy and when he runs in the backyard, it’s more like a new pony trying to gallop for the first time. He does this cute little thing with his tongue whenever I’m petting him and hit the right spot.

How has Dragon enriched your life so far?

This dog is so loving and kind and mellow. He reminds me every day that nothing is a lost cause. His friendship with Muffin has allowed her to be more open with new dogs.

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

Seeing Dragon’s transformation from a scared, shaking, peeing mess in the shelter to a happy-go-lucky goofball will hopefully inspire everyone to give shelter pets a chance. You’re not just saving a life but bringing joy into your own life. You’ll never know the same kind of love you receive from a rescued animal.

We still have lots of work ahead of us, but Dragon is already a completely different dog than the day I brought him home. I’m so lucky to have found him and so grateful for everything the SPCA does.

While there are many pleasant parts of being a pet parent, cleaning up after them isn’t exactly one of them. However, picking up after your dog is extremely important! It doesn’t matter if your pup relieves themself in your backyard or while on a walk: you should always pick up the poop.

It’s a Pollutant
The Environment Protection Agency classifies dog waste as a pollutant. When pet waste gets into our waterways, it breaks down and causes excessive algae and weed growth. That can make waterways unsuitable for swimming, fishing, and other recreational uses.

Because pet waste can be so damaging to the environment, it is important never to let your pet go to the bathroom in or close to a waterway.

It’s Neighborly
A common grievance on community apps is that people are not picking up after their pets. This un-neighborly behavior is disrespectful to the community and to the environment, so please be mindful of the shared spaces and leave them how you found them… absent of your pup’s poop.

It’s the Law
If those other reasons weren’t enough, leaving dog waste on the ground is illegal. You are required by law to pick up after your pet in public places in Virginia (as well as many other states and localities).

It Transmits Disease
Dog excrement can transmit disease to both humans and other animals. Parasites, bacteria, and viruses can all be transmitted from dog waste to the soil, which can then be passed on to people and other pets. This is especially troublesome for children playing outside or adults who like to garden. Common issues include:

Problematic Parasites:
WORMS*
COCCIDIA*
GIARDIA*

Bad Bacteria:
SALMONELLA*
E.COLI*
CAMPYLOBACTERIOSIS*

Serious Sicknesses:
PARVOVIRUS
CANINE CORONAVIRUS

* Conditions that can be transferred from canines to humans. Children, seniors, babies, and pregnant women are at higher risk.

Additionally, dog waste is not a fertilizer as some might think. The high nitrogen levels found in your pet’s poop are actually toxic for your lawn.

The bottom line: be sure to bring along a bag so you can clean up on your walk and set aside time to scoop the poop from your backyard!

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. Bruce was surrendered to the VBSPCA by his previous owner in October 2021. With his sweet personality and long locks, it didn’t take long for him to get his second chance with a woman named Melissa, her husband, and their three resident cats. We recently caught up with Melissa to get an update on Bruce.

When did you adopt Bruce? 

November 9, 2021.

How did you find Bruce? 

My husband and I went to the SPCA to look around, and Bruce caught my attention right away. He was rubbing against the cage and just didn’t want me to leave. We looked around a little more but I kept going back to him. He was so sweet and friendly, and so fluffy! 

How is Bruce doing in the home?

He’s adapted really well. He was shy around the other cats for a while and didn’t like to venture around the house too much. But now he hangs out all over and loves being around his adopted siblings. 

What sort of activities do you and Bruce do together? 

Bruce is a very chill and relaxed cat. He doesn’t play very often with his people. But he LOVES attention. His favorite hobby is sitting on my lap, following me around the house, or joining me on zoom meetings – he’s definitely not camera shy. 

Does Bruce have any funny quirks?

When Bruce wants attention and he feels he’s not getting what he wants, he will tap us on the face, or grab our face or arm in his paws to let you know he’s there and ready for pats. He also has the tiniest kitten meow but the loudest purrs. 

How has Bruce enriched your lives so far? 

He is one of the sweetest and friendliest cats I’ve ever been around. He helps me to relax by being so calm all the time. I love his warm cuddles. He’s very attached to me and I work from home, so I see him all the time. 

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

All four of my current cats were shelter pets, and while I know everybody at the shelter does the best they can for animals, it’s no place for any animal to be long term. They deserve to be in a loving home with a family they can love back. Pets bring so much joy to our lives, and we should be bringing joy to their lives too.

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. In July 2021, Tater Tot was transferred to the VBSPCA in need of critical care. His right hind leg had been broken and never healed properly, and he was unable to put any weight on it. Tater Tot’s leg was amputated at the VBSPCA Clinic, and Tater Tot was able to recover from the surgery in a foster home. That’s where he ended up meeting the woman who would later adopt him: Amber. We recently caught up with Amber to learn more about Tater Tot’s adoption story and hear how he is doing now.

How did you find Tater Tot?

My stepmom, Alexis, was the volunteer to medically foster Tater Tot after his leg was amputated. I was in the process of moving back into the house and wasn’t aware she was about to be fostering a dog. As I was unpacking, she walked in with this block-headed, stubborn, drowsy, golden-eyed baby, and for me it was love at first sight. That evening I started asking her questions on what the process to adopt a dog was. It still took about 3 weeks for me to fully commit – I wanted to be sure I was in the right emotional/financial state to ensure Tater got what he really needed.

How is Tater Tot doing in the home?

Tater Tot is doing fantastic! He’s finally figured out how to get himself up on the couch, where he will stare out the window for hours, and he has a mountain of toys that he will cycle through each week.

What sort of activities do you and Tater Tot do together?

Tater Tot is always excited for his three daily walks, and when I come home we have a game of zoomies around the house. We also have a routine of going to get a puppuccino from Starbucks every weekend.

Does Tater Tot have any funny quirks?

He’s adjusted so well without his back leg, but sometimes he will go to scratch his neck and his little nub just wiggles, so I always save the day and offer neck scratches. He’s recently figured out how to kick the dirt and grass behind him on a walk which he is very, very proud of.

One of his current favorite toys is a hard plastic egg that smells like cheese, which he will constantly grab and “bury” in the couch cushions or a fluffed up blanket and if you watch him, he will pout and move it somewhere else. He also has a game that I call corn cobbing, where we will both be relaxing and out of nowhere he grumbles and will proceed to nibble up and down my leg or arm as if he was eating corn on the cob.

How has Tater Tot enriched your life so far?

Tater has made my life so much more enjoyable. Who would have thought hearing a dog snore right next to your ear while he tries to steal your pillow would be as comforting as it is? I am always so happy to come home and see his tail just going a mile a minute while also trying to balance on his one back leg.

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

People should adopt a dog with special needs because as much as you teach them new tricks or commands, they teach you how to work around their differences. Whenever I tell my coworkers about Tater Tot’s disability, they look at me so heartbroken and ask “are you going to get him wheels or something?” If only they knew how lively he is and how little his disability affects him!