Year: 2022

A Special Kitten Becomes a Special Wedding Present

March 23, 2022

By Judy Layne

He was the last kitten left from his litter; all his siblings had been adopted. He was incredibly cute and affectionate. Even his name was adorable – his mom was named Miss Vickie and the kittens were named after different chip flavors, hence his name Herb. Yet this sweet boy waited patiently day after day for the purr-fect family to take him home.

You see, Herb was a kitty with special needs. He has Cerebella Hypoplasia (CH), a neurological condition where the cerebellum of the brain doesn’t develop properly. It ranges in severity from a minor wobble in an animal’s walk to extreme difficulty moving around. Kittens with CH require special families to adopt them that will be patient and understanding of their physical challenges. Enter Samantha (Sam) and Jordan Ross.

Sam shared “Shortly after our wedding, I really wanted to adopt a cat. My husband agreed to visit the SPCA Dartmouth Shelter just to see how the adoption process works. Then we spotted Herb – a tiny grey fluffy kitten asleep in his kennel. I just had to pick him up. Herb immediately began to purr and nuzzled into my shoulder. I fell in love and after all of my oohing and aahing, Jordan realized it was ‘game over.'”

Sam continued “We soon realized that Herb was a bit shaky or wobbly. I had seen a cat named Phin on Instagram (@orangeisthenewblackandtan) that had CH and wobbled like Herb did. The SPCA did a great job of sharing information with us about the disorder and what was involved in caring for a pet with CH. They also encouraged us to do more research and Jordan did so that evening. We wanted to ensure that as first-time pet parents, we could handle this. We were definitely nervous but knew that the joy Herb would bring far outweighed that. So, first thing the next morning, I went to the shelter to adopt him. Herb was the perfect wedding gift we gave ourselves!”

Photo provided by Herb’s adopter, Samantha. Find her on Instagram at @samantha.m.ross

“When Herb arrived at his new home, he was very energetic and wobbly, pouncing around the floor with us,” related Jordan. “He looked very happy and quickly became comfortable. The biggest challenge for him was navigating areas of our flooring that aren’t carpeted. Because he has a hard time balancing, he relies on carpeting to grip onto with his claws. We have added many mats and rugs to our home to help accommodate him in moving from room to room.”

Another fabulous photo by Samantha. Follow her on Instagram at @samantha.m.ross

Cats with CH often rely on walls when they walk to stay up. “Herb has a mild case and is ok moving around our living room without using walls, but he stays close to them when going down the hallway,” explained Sam.  “Because he can’t jump higher than two feet, we built a ramp so he could get up on our sofa and he uses a wicker hamper to climb up on our bed. Herb also has a litterbox with high walls, so he can lean against them to help keep his balance. Because he can’t hold steady when he’s eating, he sometimes gets a face full of food by accident, but we simply wipe his face and he’s good to go.”

“On a lighter note, Herb’s inability to jump has allowed me to become a house-plant mom in addition to a cat-mom, since I don’t have to worry about him chewing on them!” chuckled Sam. “He always greets us at the door when we come home and sleeps on the bed with us. When we wake up, he lets us know he’s ready for his ‘morning pets’ while he kneads into his favourite blanket.”

What CH kitties lack in coordination, they definitely make up for in determination! Jordan shared “Herb loves to be outside on our deck (under supervision) and he even goes to the park occasionally wearing his harness to visit with his cat friends. He also loves playing hide and seek with me before we go to bed each night. And believe it or not, one night he was able to catch a mouse in the house and presented it to us the next morning!”

“We’ve had Herb now for two happy years,” said the couple. “He has been such a delight to our family and has truly made our house a home. Seeing him grow from kitten to cat and being able to do things has been very rewarding. He can be a handful in some instances where most cats aren’t, but he returns the love we give him ten-fold. And it melts our hearts to see him so genuinely happy.”

The couple’s advice to people about adopting a pet with special needs? “Do your research to ensure you can give your pet the home environment, care and attention they need. And continue to stay up-to-date through the years on advances or recommendations to make your pet’s life better. Even if a pet looks or acts a bit different, they’re just as sweet and deserving of love as other pets. We think that Herb’s wobbles make him extra special!”

Please consider being special and adopting a special needs pet. If you can’t adopt, you can still help to give deserving animals like Herb a chance to live their best life.  Please donate today!

Understanding the commitment involved in adopting a special needs pet is crucial to a happy healthy relationship. There are important things to consider before adopting a pet with special needs.

  • Think about any long-term dietary requirements, special medications or treatments your pet will need. Pets with behavioural needs may require special training; those with mobility challenges may need therapy or surgery. Ensure you can fit these costs into your family’s budget. 
  • Your pet may need medications/injections at specific times of day. Ensure you’re available to do this.
  • Talk with your family about the challenges that come with adopting a special needs pet and ensure everyone’s onboard.
  • Your pet may need more frequent vet visits. Pets with an injury or physical disability may need assistance with standing or walking. Some may need you to physically accompany them outside for bathroom breaks, as opposed to simply being let out. 

The Nova Scotia SPCA makes every effort to place special needs pets with their perfect human match. Before deciding to adopt, speak to shelter staff since they’re familiar with the animal and consult with your vet to get a good understanding of the pet’s ongoing requirements. Whatever the pet’s special needs, the SPCA will be there before and after adopting to support you by providing information and advice.

 

Judy Layne

Judy is a dedicated volunteer with the Nova Scotia SPCA and proud adoptive fur-mama to Gracie. She is committed to speaking for animals who cannot speak for themselves.

The Cat Who Acts Like a Dog

March 23, 2022

By Taylor Huestis

When you think about cats, what characteristics come to mind?

Intelligent and independent – check.
Excellent groomers and cuddlers – check.
Adorable toe beans and floofy faces – check.

But have you ever met a cat that acted more like a dog? Now you have! This is Freyja G.

Freyja G was only six weeks old and 2.6 pounds when she was brought to the SPCA. She was semi-feral and extremely shy. Where Freyja G was in that sweet socialization window, she joined the foster program to build up her confidence.

After a few weeks, Freyja G was ready for adoption. Although she made strides in foster care, she needed a special family who would be patient with her. Thankfully, she met her perfect match.

“We lost both our pets under unfortunate circumstances in 2019, including one to kidney disease right before Christmas,” shared Ellen. “My husband and I knew immediately when we saw Freyja G that she was the one.”

Because everything was brand new, Freyja G took some time to settle in. “She was unfamiliar with what a house was,” Ellen remembered. “In fact, she created a burrow out of a couple blankets on the loveseat, and we let her keep that setup. I listened to her. It only took a couple days to establish trust, and we were good from there.”

“What really worked for her was the fact that we had lost a cat the day before she joined us,” added Ellen. “She basically sniffed every place that cat had been. He ‘taught’ her all the good places to hang out. She slept in his bed and refused the new one I bought her. In fact, the G in Freyja G’s name is for Gabriel, our previous cat.”

Just as Freyja G began to make positive progress… a few months later the global pandemic hit.

Ellen began working from home and Freyja G became her shadow. When Ellen shifted office space from the kitchen table to the second bedroom, Freyja G switched spots as well.

“We moved into the second bedroom where we had a dog bed,” Ellen smiled. “She sleeps on that most of the day. She is very good about reminding me to take breaks with a pat on the arm or talking.”

“I’ve learned to follow her and she will show me what she wants,” Ellen continued. “A walk in the hall. A game of fetch. Food. A break to watch bird videos on YouTube. She will tell me. Often at the end of a workday where I may not have given her enough attention because I’ve been in meetings, I will look behind to see all the toys that have gathered there. She’s tried to remind me of breaks and I’ve failed to take them because my ‘schedule’ was not to her liking.”

Yep – you read that right. Fetch. “She plays fetch like a dog,” laughed Ellen. “She started bringing me toys and I was throwing them. I don’t know how long this went on before I realized I was throwing toys to a cat. She fetches and brings them back. But she has favourites, and she will tell you what toy she wants to play with.”

And that’s not all… Freyja G also walks on a leash and harness. “She wears it to go outside even to snooze in the sun,” Ellen explained. “She prefers the harness to a cat carrier, so that’s how she travels in the car to the vet. She heels when we take walks in the apartment hall. She comes when she’s called. She responded to her name within days of us getting her.”

Freyja G’s uniqueness expands even further. “She has an exceptionally long tail – more than 13” – and a heart birth mark on a paw,” Ellen described. “She went from a tiny kitten to a 15+ lb cat. She is truly a blessing. Freyja G has brought a lot of happiness into a period in our lives that was anything but.”

Freyja G taught Ellen and her husband how to love again after experiencing loss.

Ellen is an author so she was inspired to share Freyja G’s tale. “I’ve written a story about her that I plan to publish,” Ellen revealed. “It’s a children’s story to explain what it means to say goodbye to one pet and hello to another.”

Freyja G has lots of dog-like characteristics, but no matter the breed, all pets teach us about unconditional love. As Ellen would put it, “They know how to ‘talk’ if you’re willing to pay attention.”

Taylor Huestis

Taylor is the Communications & Development Officer with the Nova Scotia SPCA and proud adoptive fur-mama to Bonnie and Boy. She is passionate about raising awareness and funds for local animals in need. Connect with Taylor at thuestis@spcans.ca or 902-222-0378 today.

The Kitty That Was Brought to the SPCA 3x

March 23, 2022

By Taylor Huestis

When pets are adopted and leave the shelter, sometimes we never see them again. It can be very bittersweet. Although it may be a goodbye for our shelter staff and volunteers, it is the beautiful beginning of a new chapter for that pet. 

Some families send adorable updates. Others may even drop by to visit. But usually, that’s it – and it totally makes sense. They have shed their past and are looking forward to their future. 

Well, except one. One cat broke that status quo. Not once. Not twice. But three whole times! 

Ollie was a stray kitty struggling to survive outdoors. He earned the nickname “Triple” because he ended up back at the SPCA three times.  

We wondered why Ollie became the cat that came back. Now, we know. He was waiting for Karen. 

When Karen dropped into the shelter, she wasn’t expecting to adopt. Her heart was still recovering after losing her first SPCA kitty, Pierre, to heart disease. “I was just going to give some kitties some love,” Karen shared. “Once I saw Ollie’s face however, I knew I had to take him home. I was able to hold him, and he just melted into me.” 

It was a perfect match. That is… until Liz entered the picture and shook things up. 

“When Karen and I first started dating, Ollie was not a fan of me as I took over his spot on the couch and bed,” giggled Liz, Karen’s wife. “After a year or so of having my things peed on, I won Ollie over with love, cuddles and of course his favourite treats, Temptations Chicken Flavoured Cat treats.” 

They ended up becoming the best of friends. Ollie even became Liz’s reliable study buddy. “Anytime I would take out my laptop and textbooks, Ollie was not far behind,” Liz joked. “He was such a good cheerleader and sometimes a needed distraction.” 

Talkative and food-obsessed Ollie did have an unfortunate accident in 2021. He hurt his tail on the stairs and needed to be rushed to the veterinary hospital. “For a month or so, we went down and had a new bandage put on every three days,” said Karen. “Now whenever we go to the vet clinic, all the staff ask how he is doing. You might say he’s attained rock star status!” 

“Ollie definitely considers himself the leader of our little pack,” Liz added. “He likes to make sure everyone is ok and, especially, that they are not eating his food. Ollie has taught us that when life is busy, it is ok to take a break and get some cuddles.” 

Ollie has also taught Karen and Liz all about unconditional love. “On some of our worst days, that cranky old man would know and either give head butts or cuddles,” explained Karen. “He’d make sure you could hear his purr and be by our sides.” 

“Some of my favourite memories with Oliver include us laying in bed, both of us tucked into the blankets and watching tv, or sitting on the deck at our house sun tanning,” Karen continued. “He also loves galloping throughout our house at nighttime. Between him and his sister Abby (also a rescue from the Dartmouth location), sometimes it sounds like baby elephants running around.” 

“We’re both so grateful that Ollie came into our lives,” Karen exclaimed. “He’s got so much spunk and energy for being a 16-year-old cat. We think he’s going to outlive us all!” 

Thanks to Karen and Liz, Ollie was able to retire his “Triple” nickname. Ollie went from the streets, to the shelter 3x, to now having 3x as much love in his life. 

 

 

Taylor Huestis

Taylor is the Communications & Development Officer with the Nova Scotia SPCA and proud adoptive fur-mama to Bonnie and Boy. She is passionate about raising awareness and funds for local animals in need. Connect with Taylor at thuestis@spcans.ca or 902-222-0378 today.

Senior Pup Gets A Second Chance

February 16, 2022

By Taylor Huestis

Do you believe love at first sight is real? Heather and Andrew do. They’ve been lucky to experience this magical feeling 2x.

Heather has always been a lifelong animal-lover. After working in an animal shelter in her hometown in New Brunswick, she developed a deep passion for rescue and adoption. “This experience was very formative for me and cultivated an empathy for animals that for whatever reason had found themselves without a home,” she reflected.

They had their first love at sight experience with Myrtle. “Our first adoption from the Dartmouth SPCA was Myrtle in 2015,” Heather smiled. “I have a particular affection for pitbull mixes and Myrtle’s enthusiastic, almost desperate affection, melted our hearts.”

So, when Heather spotted Barbara, a small senior pup, on the adoptions website… she knew the feeling.

“I jumped right in my car and drove over there within half an hour of seeing her photo,” Heather remembered. “When they brought her out, she limped excitedly towards me with her hilarious little gremlin face and my heart exploded. I took her outside for a little walk and she rolled on her back in the grass, kicking her little legs in the air. Even though she was old, I could see she was still getting lots of pleasure from life.”

“My partner and I have a special affection for older dogs,” Heather continued. “They just make our hearts explode with love. The idea of a dog of a certain age being left at a shelter and having to start over really pulls at the heartstrings. We want to be there to give that precious animal the golden years they deserve. What animal could deserve love, pampering and devotion more than a senior dog that has found herself all alone?”

Barbara is an extra special senior with a unique heart. It was discovered that Barbara was in congestive heart failure. To help her, and her future family, Barbara joined the SPCA Palliative Care Program. The program was developed to help senior pets with manageable health concerns live their best lives. The SPCA covers the cost of medical care while the new family provides a loving retirement home.

“We are so grateful that the SPCA offers this excellent and important program,” Heather beamed. “Having the extra vet expenses associated with adopting a senior pet or an animal with ongoing health issues can be a deterrent for some potential adopters. This program gives them a second chance and provides the ongoing support they need.”

“I would like to give a special shout out to Liz at the SPCA,” Heather complimented. “She has such a huge heart and has been Barb’s champion every step of the way.”

Myrtle and Barbara did a meet-and-greet at the SPCA and it solidified what Heather and Andrew already knew. It was the perfect match. “Barb, being the older lady, wasn’t afraid to put Myrtle in her place and Myrtle took those cues very well,” Heather giggled. “Myrtle respects her elders!”

Heather and Andrew brought Barbara home on March 25, 2020 and she settled in very quickly. “She wanted to sniff absolutely everything and was so enthusiastic… it was like we were showing her a whole new world,” Heather shared. “Barbara has congestive heart failure but she doesn’t let that reduce her enjoyment of life. She doesn’t dwell in the past or worry about the future… she lives in the moment.”

“Despite her challenges, she is able to enjoy pleasurable moments to the fullest and love her family completely. I am a person that tends to worry and ruminate with anxiety and Barb helps me see that there is another way to live. She helps me see the moments of pleasure and love that life has to offer.”

One of the most special memories happened that first summer together. “We took Barbara and Myrtle to my partner’s family cottage on Parlee Beach in New Brunswick,” Heather reminisced. “Barb had a significant limp in her front left leg but with lots of walking this limp had almost completely disappeared and we were looking forward to walking her on the long beach.”

“When we arrived, the tide was out and there was a huge space to explore. For the first time since we adopted her, I let her off leash. To my amazement, she ran around the beach at full speed, exuding absolute joy, like a dog half her age. We couldn’t believe it. A dog that could hardly make it around the block without having to be carried because of her limp a few months prior was now zipping around the sand flats like she’d been given a new body. I’ll never forget the look of pure joy on her face.”

Heather continued: “There is something truly special about having the opportunity to love a dog near the end of their life. It is a privilege. Barb came along at the perfect time for us, right as the pandemic hit. She was the bright light that we needed during that stressful and uncertain time. We feel lucky to be able to care for Barb and give her all the love we can, and she gives us so much in return. It is really us, the people, who are receiving more than we are giving her. Caring for any pet will enrich your life and for us is one of life’s great pleasures. That pleasure is only multiplied when the dog is particularly in need.”

Do you have your tissues? You may need some.

“Even though it will be very hard when our Barbara passes away, it will have been absolutely worth it to have had the opportunity to love her and be loved by her,” Heather grinned. “People do often ask how we could adopt a senior knowing that they won’t be with us for that long, but I have never really understood that question. To me the question that makes more sense is how could you NOT adopt a senior?”

“We love Barb as if we have had her a lifetime. It will be hard to lose her, but you have to make it about her life and not about your pain. It is worth the pain of losing her in order to know she was loved and cared for in her golden years. When we see her running on the beach, diving headfirst into her dinner or bouncing around the backyard with a zest for life, it is obvious how worthwhile adopting a senior is.”

Love at first sight is most definitely real.

 

Taylor Huestis

Taylor is the Communications & Development Officer with the Nova Scotia SPCA and proud adoptive fur-mama to Bonnie and Boy. She is passionate about raising awareness and funds for local animals in need. Connect with Taylor at thuestis@spcans.ca or 902-222-0378 today.

The Bodj von Grunfeld® Scholarship: Paying Love Forward

February 16, 2022

By Judy Layne

There is nothing like the love of a pet. It calms us when we need comfort. Energizes us when our world seems to have ground to a halt. It warms us during the coldest winters and carries us through the darkest days. It’s an unconditional love built on trust, loyalty, and devotion. It’s this love that makes our life better.

For 12 years, a beautiful German Shepherd named Bodj shared that love with her family. She was a social butterfly and always on duty to care for her loved ones. When Bodj’s owner was diagnosed with ALS, she went above and beyond to comfort him. Her family watched with concern as Bodj aged and became ill. Inevitably, they reached the point of saying good-bye. It was devastating and the pain of losing her cut very deep. She had left huge paw prints on their hearts.

The family could not let Bodj’s life go unacknowledged. They looked for a meaningful way to honour Bodj and her caring spirit yet be of practical use. Inspired by her love and loyalty, they started a scholarship in her memory. Through the Nova Scotia SPCA, the family wanted to help those pursuing higher education who choose to make animal care their work. Each year, a dedicated student will be awarded $500 towards their animal welfare education. They knew that Bodj would approve.

To celebrate the launch of Bodj’s scholarship, the family decided to increase the education fund for 2021 to $1500. After receiving many amazing applications, Kaitlin Coles was selected. Kaitlin is pursuing a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree at the Atlantic Veterinary College, UPEI.

You may recall seeing the picture of Kaitlin with her 12-year-old dog, Sam, in August when she received the scholarship. Kaitlin shared “The scholarship in Bodj’s memory was a story I connect with on a very deep and personal level. This past Christmas, I had to say goodbye to Sam, so I know that feeling of loss and pain all too well. But I also look back and remember the warmth from the unconditional love he gave and the precious memories we made. I truly realize why Bodj’s family wanted her memory and importance to live on. This story touched my heart so immensely and made me emotional, especially because now I can empathize with Bodj’s family.”

Kaitlin followed her heart in pursuing a career as a veterinarian. She related “Ever since I was a young girl, I have always been obsessed with animals. I’ve always been an advocate for their welfare and safety because they don’t have a voice of their own. My passion and deep love for every animal is what inspired me to become a veterinarian – a job where I not only get to spend every day with animals but one where I get to have a direct impact on their health and welfare. I love meeting new people and having deep and important conversations; the relationships and connections you form with animals and their owners is what I need for my heart to be satisfied long-term.”

The DVM program is definitely challenging, but Kaitlin’s studies are going very well. “I love education and learning, and in the program, I get to learn about things I am truly passionate about.  It’s all so interesting,” she said.

Vet school is expensive and Bodj’s scholarship has been very beneficial to Kaitlin in paying for her tuition. She noted “Many people can’t attend university because they’re financially restricted. Bodj’s scholarship is such a big help not only for me, but for people who receive it in the future!”

Inspired by Bodj’s scholarship, Kaitlin is already paying love forward. “I currently work at the PEI Humane Society as a dog trainer and am fostering a sweet little beagle and loving it! I always believe in kindness and Bodj’s scholarship encourages me to pay it forward even more.”

Kaitlin encourages others to pursue a career in animal welfare. “Helping animals fills you with so much love and joy. There’s nothing like feeling the love and appreciation from an animal you’ve helped.”

 

 

To find out more about the Bodj von Grunfeld® Scholarship, click here. Applications are officially open! Stay tuned for May’s e-newsletter when we share some fascinating information about Bodj’s remarkable life.

Interested in a career in the animal welfare world? Check out our new Veterinary Assistant and Veterinary Technician programs at the Nova Scotia SPCA College of Animal Welfare. Click here. 

 

Judy Layne

Judy is a dedicated volunteer with the Nova Scotia SPCA and proud adoptive fur-mama to Gracie. She is committed to speaking for animals who cannot speak for themselves.

Are Pets the Ultimate Influencers?

February 11, 2022

By Taylor Huestis

Webster’s dictionary defines “influencer” as a person who inspires or guides the actions of others. You see them all the time on social media. Maybe it is someone who is trying a new product out and gifting you a special discount code. Other times it is someone promoting a specific lifestyle.

But I think pets may be the ultimate influencers. Hear me out.

Pets get you moving so you build healthy habits. They listen and support you with their adorable, fluffy ears. They help establish routines – sometimes with a tapping paw alarm clock. They also inspire kindness and the importance of living in the moment. The pet effect is real.

Pets must have true influencer superpowers. How else would the love of two pups influence their owner, Kyla Stanick, to donate more than $10,000?

Back in 2011, Kyla followed her heart and pursued a career in real estate. “I always loved interior design and home design and really had a knack for it since I was a child,” Kyla remembered. “I also have always admired real estate in general. When a client finally finds a home or sells theirs, it is the best reaction ever. It literally never gets old.”

Kyla has two pups, Luke and Trace, who bring so much joy to her life. Her dogs are the big influence behind Kyla joining Pawsitive Properties in 2017. With Pawsitive Properties, Kyla donates a portion of her commission on every house sold/bought to help homeless pets in need.

“I had been volunteering at shelters since I was a kid and always loved it,” Kyla shared. “The older and busier I got, it made it harder to invest my extra time so I thought why not financially help in some way to other deserving souls?”

Kyla recently celebrated an amazing donation milestone of $10,000. Over the years, there have been many trips to the Kings SPCA to highlight adoptable animals, drop off cheques, and accept cuddles from thankful shelter pets.

“I really love to see the progress the shelter has made with adoptions each month,” she smiled. “It’s amazing that people devote their whole time ensuring other souls get the life they deserve. When I go in and I find out that each animal I featured online is adopted it brings me so much joy!”

So, what is it exactly about her dogs that inspired Kyla to make a difference?

“Animals are innocent beings that look to us for guidance,” related Kyla. “They should be respected and given kindness. I truly think that giving back to your community is something everyone should do if they are able. It is the most rewarding feeling knowing that you are helping in some way.”

Perhaps the biggest lesson pets share is their unconditional love. I think you’ll agree that is an influencer we can all get on board with.

“If you’re thinking about it… do it,” Kyla continued. “You will never regret making someone’s life better!”

 

Looking to get in touch with the fabulous Kyla Stanick, REALTOR® with EXIT Realty Town & Country? Call 902-844-0987 or 902-765-3505 today. 

 

Taylor Huestis

Taylor is the Communications & Development Officer with the Nova Scotia SPCA and proud adoptive fur-mama to Bonnie and Boy. She is passionate about raising awareness and funds for local animals in need. Connect with Taylor at thuestis@spcans.ca or 902-222-0378 today.