Author: Taylor Huestis

Shamica’s a Shining Star

September 17, 2024

By Judy Layne

She’s only 17 years old, but Shamica Cottreau has shown more kindness, selflessness and dedication than many of us can claim for a lifetime. She’s choosing to use her time to learn, to invest in herself and to help make a difference in the lives of homeless animals.

Growing up, Shamica was surrounded by pets. She said “Animals have always been a big part of my family life. At one point, I had three dogs, 2 cats, a few fish and a turtle all at the same time! They definitely inspired my love of animals.”

This spring, Shamica decided to put her passion for animals to good use. She completed an unpaid 80-hour Cooperative Education Work Placement at the SPCA’s Yarmouth Shelter through her high school, Yarmouth Consolidated Memorial. Perhaps it was fate that brought Shamica to the SPCA’s doorstep. She explained “I consulted with my Co-op teacher who suggested I do a placement at a daycare or with the SPCA. Given that I had previous experience working with children, I decided to try something new and chose the SPCA placement.”

The decision turned out to be a great one. Shamica related “I thoroughly enjoyed my time at the SPCA, where I had the opportunity to learn a lot about animal care. This experience not only allowed me to fulfill my graduation requirements but also opened my eyes to the possibility of pursuing a career involving animals in the future.” During her placement, Shamica was responsible for a variety of duties including assisting with the intake process for animals, ensuring that each new arrival was properly documented and settled into the shelter. She also played a crucial role in daily care routines, including scheduled feedings for both cats and dogs.

“In addition to basic care, I contributed to enrichment of the dogs by engaging them in activities such as walks, playing fetch and other exercises designed to keep them physically active and mentally stimulated,” said Shamica. “This was an important aspect of their care, as it helped to reduce stress and improve their overall well-being while at the shelter.”

Equally as important, Shamica helped maintain a sanitary environment by cleaning cages, kennels, litter boxes, and cat carriers. This is essential to prevent the spread of disease and to ensure that the animals live in a comfortable and hygienic space.  Shamica summed up her work placement – “My time at the SPCA not only strengthened my understanding of animal care but also deepened my compassion for animals in need.”

Shamica was so inspired and enjoyed her experience so much that she decided to enroll in the new Veterinary Assistant Program that started this September at the Nova Scotia SPCA College of Animal Welfare. Remarkably, even though Shamica’s work placement was completed, she decided to volunteer at the Yarmouth Shelter during the summer to deepen her knowledge and skills in animal care before her program of studies started. She shared “Being a volunteer at the SPCA offered me a chance to expand on what I had previously learned, allowing me to continue working with animals in a more in-depth and practical way. This experience was not only fulfilling but also aligned with my growing interest in pursuing a future career in the field.” Shamica ended up volunteering at the Yarmouth Shelter anywhere from 3-5 days every single week!

Amazingly, Shamica’s dedication to becoming her best self doesn’t stop with helping animals. In summer 2023, she worked at the Cadet Training Centre in New Brunswick. She explained “As an army cadet leader and instructor, you learn invaluable skills such as leadership, teamwork, discipline, and responsibility. You develop the ability to guide and mentor others, fostering a sense of community and respect among your peers. The experience teaches you the importance of leading by example and the value of perseverance and commitment.”

In 2022, Shamica participated in Camp Courage, designed to offer young female leaders a unique experience that empowers them through hands-on training in emergency services like firefighting, policing, and paramedicine. She shared “The camp teaches confidence, resilience, and the importance of pursuing one’s passions fearlessly. Through the camp, young women learn to overcome challenges, work collaboratively, and emerge as strong, capable leaders ready to make a difference in their communities. This is especially important to me as a young Assembly of First Nations (AFN) and Mi’kmaq youth.”

I asked Shamica what advice she’d give to other young people who care about animals. “Volunteering at the SPCA is an amazing way for teens to make a real difference in the lives of animals. It’s a chance to learn valuable skills, gain hands-on experience, and discover the joy of caring for animals in need. Not only will you be helping cats, dogs, and other pets find loving homes, but you’ll also be part of a community that shares your passion for making the world a better place for animals. Plus, the experience can open doors to future opportunities and careers in animal care. Take the first step—your time and effort can make a huge impact!”

Given Shamica’s passion for animals, her caring nature, team spirit and strong work ethic, we know that she will excel in the SPCA College of Animal Welfare’s new Veterinary Assistant Program. Please join me in giving a round of ‘a-paws’ to this outstanding young woman.

Judy Layne

Judy is a dedicated volunteer with the Nova Scotia SPCA. She is committed to speaking for animals who cannot speak for themselves.

Hope in the Hurricane

September 17, 2024

By Taylor Huestis

This September will mark one year since Hurricane Lee struck Nova Scotia. The hurricane’s relentless winds and heavy rain caused flooding, power outages, and displaced pets and people.

For strays and abandoned animals, during the storm and in the aftermath, it was devastating.

On the Sunday after Hurricane Lee hit, a woman was walking around her yard scanning for storm damage when she heard faint meowing. She was shocked to find four newborn kittens, barely clinging to life, hiding behind a tree.

They were soaked, covered in mud, and dehydrated.

Kittens this young cannot regulate their own body temperature. They were cold and pale, so they were rushed to the Colchester SPCA. Shelter staff and volunteers acted quickly and provided critical care.

They dried the kitties off, gave them cozy blankets and heating pads, and tried to nurse them back to health… but they braced themselves that the kittens might not make it through the night.

Inspired by The Little Mermaid, and how you do not need to be able to speak the same language to connect and help each other, the kittens were named Ariel, Ursula, Chaz, and J-Slice.

Tragically, despite best efforts, Ariel didn’t make it – a loss that deeply affected everyone. But they tried to focus on the fact that the other kittens began to bounce back. The kitties showed remarkable resilience. With around-the-clock care and love from dedicated foster families, the kittens grew strength and confidence.

But that’s not all they gained… they also found amazing adoptive families!

Now, a year later, their families shared an update on their progress:

Chaz

“Chaz (now known as Oliver) is playful, goofy and a social butterfly. After his rough start outdoors, he is an indoor only kitty. If he’s not protecting our home in his throne, you’ll find him cuddled up and snuggling his humans after enjoying some playtime. Our favourite memories of Oliver so far is how he has never failed to greet us in the morning for love and cuddles by laying on our chest. Thank you SPCA for everything you do and for bringing Oliver into our lives!” – Jensen

J-Slice

“Let me tell you about how I came to own Patrick formerly known as J-Slice. I work with the province and was coming back from Amherst and I had recently lost my 16-year-old cat named Prada who was an orange and white cat. I was not looking for another orange and white cat but I stopped in at your shelter in Truro on the way home from Amherst. Honestly, I was looking for a grey and white kitten but I went into your kitten room and there was a cute little orange fluffy one who is happy to be held, and then there was Patrick, he just wanted love so of course I had to hold him. I didn’t want to take him because he honestly looked identical to my 16-year-old that just passed away in October. But I put him back and I went to put into it an application for the other cat and I could just hear him screaming, so I went back and saw him and he had his paws out yelling and I knew at that moment he was coming home with me. He is honestly almost identical to my 16-year-old that passed away but with a little bit more attitude and I couldn’t be more grateful that he didn’t give me a choice and made me choose him.” – Meghan

Ursula

“Ursula is now named Truffle. She was my one and only foster failure during my time at the SPCA. She is leash trained like all my others and gets supervised outside time. 🙂 Truffle has always been obsessed with people; I think that comes from my hand-raising her from three weeks of age. So, I think my favorite memories with her might be any time we take her to the pet store or a drive-through. We get to see her light up and make her “activation noises,” as we call them, whenever someone gives her attention and tells her she is pretty. She just loves it so much, and we love to see how happy she gets with these interactions.” – Staci-Ann

Right now, around 17 pets – just like these kitties – are brought to safety at the Nova Scotia SPCA every single day. And with storms and hurricanes on the horizon, it will get even busier.

As we face another hurricane season, it’s important to reflect and remember lessons we’ve learned. And one big takeaway from Hurricane Lee and the storm kitties, is that even in natural disasters, there is power in connection.

When we work together, there is always hope.

Taylor Huestis

Taylor is the Communications & Development Officer with the Nova Scotia SPCA and proud adoptive fur-parent to two cats named Bonnie and Boy (yep - that is his real name) and a palliative pup named Hazel.

PUPdate with the NWT Puppies

September 17, 2024

By Sarah Lyon

It had been a long day. Up early as the sun started to rise in Alberta, loaded onto a plane and then flown across the country. and now, dark again when landing on the tarmac at Halifax International Airport. On board, 16 dogs of from the Northwest Territories who had already been through a lot in their young lives.

It was September 2023 when the Nova Scotia SPCA was approached by Veterinarians Without Borders to help with dogs evacuated from the Hay River, NWT Animal Shelter. First relocated to Alberta, they now needed to find a new place for shelter and adoption. Of the 16 animals transported by Wings of Rescue, 11 were unnamed puppies.

Foster families, media, and volunteers came out to meet, help, and talk about the puppies. Now, a year later, we catch up with some of the pups and their families to hear about their first year in Nova Scotia.


“Delta is doing awesome! She loves the pool jumping in and out. She loves chasing anything and eating everything! She loves to cuddle and goes bonkers trying to get attention from the cats. She has the cutest puppy eyes that are hard to say no to. We absolutely love her and are very happy we adopted her, she has become a huge part of our family!” – Leah B., adopter

“Nahanni has settled into her loving home. She enjoys spending time with her older cat brother Alfie, rolling around in her dog pool, and playing catch with her ball in the backyard. We love watching her sniff flowers on our walks, and swimming in any body of water she can find – no matter how small! We feel extremely lucky to have been able to adopt Nahanni, as she brings such joy to us, and she gives the best hugs. We are eternally grateful for the volunteers from the Hay River area who saved Nahanni and her friends during the evacuation, as well as all the organizations that worked so hard to give these 16 dogs a second chance.” – Hannah C., adopter

“Louise was originally a foster with us, but she was so sweet with our 2-year-old we decided to keep her with our family. She has made herself at home ever since! We kept her name, though she also goes by “Lou” and “Louie”. Our little one is obsessed with her, and they are best pals. Louise is just as sweet as always and sometimes needs a reminder that she is a big girl and not a lap dog, as she loves nothing more than cozying up for cuddles.” – Rachel W., adopter

“Char loves playing outside in the backyard and recently in her puppy pool. She loves all four of her human brothers but is exceptionally close to the youngest Logan, who is six. She’s a happy girl who loves to be with her family and always has a look on her face that you can’t help but smile when she’s around. We absolutely couldn’t have found a more perfect addition to our family than Char.” – Kelsey S., adopter

“Moose is now named Axel. He’s a wicked smart boy, learning so quickly. He already loves to go off-leash at the dog park and play with others. He’s learning all his commands in German. We love him so much; he’s come so far since we brought him home thanksgiving weekend. He’s our little goofball. He loves to dance, and greatly enjoys pestering his big sister, but she manages to love him anyways.” – Jordan T., adopter

“Friends of ours had been up in Hay River filming a nature documentary when the first broke out and forced them to evacuate. We asked for their advice on a new name for MacKenzie with relevance to the area. The suggestion they had was to name her after Winnie’s Cafe which was a renowned arts spot and cafe outside Hay River they really enjoyed and was a staple of the community. The Rose part comes from wild rose prominent in Alberta and southern NWT. We live on the Commons and she has a wonderful group of dog buds to play with. She just turned 1 year old last month and is growing fast at about 60+ lbs.” – Geordie M., adopter

Tundra’s journey took an unexpected and heartwarming turn when a former Yellowknife, NWT resident, attended a wedding and learned about Tundra from his cousin, who was fostering her. Deeply moved by her story, he felt an immediate connection and decided to meet her. “Earning Jack’s trust was a challenging but enriching process. With consistent training, unwavering attention, and boundless love, Jack blossomed from a cautious, timid dog into a confident, sociable companion. Her Dad guided her every step, transforming her fear into courage. Today, Jack’s life is a whirlwind of joy and social engagements. She attends doggy day camp weekly, where she plays with her friends. She enjoys regular playdates with her “auntie” Indie, the cousin’s dog who initially fostered her. Jack revels in off-leash hikes and games of fetch, her vibrant spirit shining through her love for puddles, which she gleefully submerges herself in at every opportunity.” – Curtis H., adopter

“We adopted Aurora, but we changed her name to Ginko (keeping Aurora as her middle name). She is such a unique dog, so a bit of an adjustment having had nothing but Siberian Huskies for over 20 years. However, she fits in beautifully with our family, and her two Siberian Husky brothers adore her. She is incredibly sweet, intelligent, and observant. Her hobbies include shredding plush toys, chewing on baseboards, and roughhousing with her brothers. She hasn’t met a cheese that she doesn’t like. She is an enthusiastic tailwagger. When she beats the couch with her tail, I mimic her with my hand, and she goes crazy, she loves it. She is the most affectionate dog I’ve ever had.” – Dana M., adopter

Sarah Lyon

Sarah is the Chief Communications & Marketing Officer with the Nova Scotia SPCA. At home, she parents rescue dog Mz. Roxy Roller and son Lochlan. Telling the stories of adopters, donors, and volunteers is what makes her tail wag. Connect with Sarah at slyon@spcans.ca or 902-229-8620 today.

It’s About Family for Marsha

September 17, 2024

By Sarah Lyon

Sitting in the kitchen of the Centre for Music on Summit, Marsha Sobey admits that she has many passions, two of which are music and animals.

Marsha’s mother Norma was an animal lover and the Nova Scotia SPCA Pictou shelter was one of her charities of choice. She instilled in her children that love of animals and supporting the community.

As a child growing up off Mountain Road in New Glasgow, Marsha learned to play the piano. And at her feet, there were always dogs. “I had a chocolate poodle named Coco Joe,” she says. “Then in university, my friend and I got an apartment and thought ‘we should get a dog’ so we welcomed a black lab puppy and named her Fundy,” she says. Next came a German pointer named Max, then two labs, one yellow and one black. “They were named Kobe and Carter because the kids were huge basketball fans and wanted them named after their favourite players at the time, Kobe Byrant and Vince Carter.”

Today, Marsha and her husband Paul have their best buddy black lab Jake at home. “We pretty much take him everywhere,” she says. They always welcome their six grand dogs to join family festivities. In 2022 Jake donned a construction vest and went to work as “lead digger.” when he officially turned over the first bit of dirt to start the construction of the new SPCA for Northern Nova Scotia.

Becoming the co-chair of the fundraising committee for the North Nova SPCA was not on Marsha’s list of things to do. She dropped in sometimes to the Granton Road facility to donate supplies with her mom when the shelter posted things they needed, and she noticed that the building was not in the greatest shape. “I have such respect for the employees at that shelter,” she says. “They are doing so much with so little. There has been a definite need for an update for the safety of staff and animals, but also a new location, one that isn’t out of sight.”

Her friend Steve Smith, with whom she worked together on other fundraising campaigns, called her one day to tell her that he was going to be a part of creating a new facility for the animals of the region, but a fundraising chair was needed, and would she take on that role?

“I’ll do it I said. I didn’t even take a moment to think about it! But I did say to him, only if you will be my co-chair.” Marsha went home and told Paul about her latest project, and he said to her, “all right, what are we going to give.” This immediate generosity from her husband is reflected in the community when Marsha talks about the new facility.

“The support from family and friends, small and big business, foundations, organizations and clubs, towns and municipalities, and indeed our local contractors, has been very generous,” she states. “And when Steve told me about the contribution Sharon and Elmer MacKay made, it was inspirational. Their dedication to seeing a new SPCA for this area is extremely generous.”

To see the complex – the first of its kind in the province to have a shelter, veterinary hospital, and thrift store – come to fruition, Marsha assembled a committee, including daughter Emma, strategically made up of animal lovers in the area. Together with the building committee, they have worked hard to fundraise and create a space for modern animal welfare.

“And it is in a great spot,” she says. “Compliments to the Town of Stellarton for the foresight and land donation. This new location is central to serve Guysborough, Antigonish, and Pictou County.”

Marsha has talked to a lot of people since agreeing to be the Fundraising Co-Chair, and she keeps hearing the same things over and over. “Most people I run into are passionate about animals and everyone agrees that Northern Nova Scotia really needs this new building. Add in a veterinary hospital and a thrift store which will raise money to care for the animals, and everyone has been very supportive.”

When asked about how she will feel on the day the doors of the North Nova SPCA open, Marsha says she will be super excited and pretty proud of what the community has done. “I will be happy that there is a place for people to go with their pets if they need helps, and that I helped in some way to make that happen.”

Fundraising for the new SPCA is ending the way it started for Marsha: with family. Two of her children live in the area, and to whom she has passed down a commitment of supporting the community, have quietly been raising money through creating and hosting events and reaching out to others to donate. “Even my grandchildren have been a part of the process,” Marsha proudly says. “They have generously donated birthday money and helped their parents at fundraising events.”

As the fundraising committee winds down on a campaign that raised millions, we all have Marsha Sobey’s leadership to thank.

Another summit climbed, for the women who plays music on Summit.

Sarah Lyon

Sarah is the Chief Communications & Marketing Officer with the Nova Scotia SPCA. At home, she parents rescue dog Mz. Roxy Roller and son Lochlan. Telling the stories of adopters, donors, and volunteers is what makes her tail wag. Connect with Sarah at slyon@spcans.ca or 902-229-8620 today.

Louise and Sassafrat: Finding Love Through the Grief

July 16, 2024

By Kirsten Millar

In the midst of grief and loss, a special new companionship emerged between Louise Emin and a cat named Sassafrat.

In May of this year, Louise faced the devastating loss of her husband, Lloyd. Just three months earlier, Louise and her husband had experienced the passing of their cat. Louise had wanted to adopt another cat, but her husband didn’t share this wish.

On the morning of Lloyd’s passing, while gathered with two of her children, a conversation about cats led them to the Yarmouth SPCA. It was there that Louise met Sassafrat, a 9-year-old cat who would soon become her closest companion.

Louise was looking for an older cat, and Sassafrat stood out to her the second she laid eyes on her. “She took to me almost immediately at the shelter, and I knew I wasn’t leaving without her,” she says.

Sassafrat had wound up at the SPCA a month earlier when her owner passed away, and Louise feels like they were meant to find each other that day. “It’s like she was made for me,” she says.

Sassafrat was adopted and went home the same day, and she had no trouble adjusting to her new life with Louise. “When we first brought her home, we opened the door to her carrier and she walked out and acted like she had always been here. She wasn’t nervous at all,” says Louise.

Since her adoption, Sassafrat has been filling Louise’s home with love and they have become the best of friends.

“She loves to snuggle. She sits on my lap which is what I had hoped for – a lap cat – and she sleeps with me at night at the foot of the bed. She lays down when I do and gets up when I get up. She follows me everywhere I go and she just loves attention,” says Louise. “When I leave the house and come back, she’ll walk circles around me and meow at me to welcome me back.”

Sassafrat is just as friendly with everyone else she meets too. When someone comes through the door of the house, she always jumps up to go greet them and she loves to be around people. She has even gotten into some mischief in her new home.

“She loves to look out the window and she keeps thinking she should be allowed to go outdoors, but we won’t let her! Sometimes she’ll try to make a run for it,” Louise laughs. “And when you pet her back, her butt goes in the air and we call her “elevator butt.”

Having Sassafrat around has helped Louise get through an extremely difficult time after the loss of her husband and has helped to fill the void in her heart and home. “She’s the greatest company and she has made my house all the better. It would be pretty quiet and dull without her. She’s the most special little cat,” she says.

This pair found each other at the right time, and it was exactly what they both needed. They helped each other heal from loss. Sometimes a sweet little shelter animal can become the best friend of all.

Kirsten Millar

Kirsten is an animal lover and proud “dog aunt” who recently lost her two cats that she adopted from the SPCA in 2007. She volunteers at the SPCA to honour their memory and help other animals like them.

Looking (Out the Window) for Love:  T-Belle’s Story

July 16, 2024

By Judy Layne

The little face in the window said it all. T-Belle had been waiting for such a long time. When would it be her turn to find a loving home? When would that special someone come by who would look into her eyes and see the sweet soul inside? T-Belle had so much love to give; she just needed someone to love her back…….

T-Belle’s unique journey with the SPCA began when she was surrendered to the La Baie SPCA in 2016 and adopted in 2017. She had a loving home for 6 years but in April 2023 she was surrendered again when her family was moving overseas and was not able to take her with them. La Baie is foster-based so T-Belle was placed in the care of one of the amazing SPCA foster parents who have opened their hearts and homes to animals in need.

Approximately 10 years old at the time, T-Belle never let the challenges life threw at her get in her way. She looked a bit different than other cats, as she is missing part of her tongue and had all her teeth removed. But this never hindered T-Belle’s ability to eat; she could eat softened kibbles and wet food with ease. She was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism but always took her meds like a champ. A treatment plan was developed to set up T-Belle and her future adoptive family for success. Her fur should be white, but it had a golden hue from a unique chemical in her saliva. Despite her condition, T-Belle had always taken pride in grooming herself. Everyone who met T-Belle agreed that she is a sweet friendly feline whose heart is as golden as her fur!

T-Belle was put up for adoption in July 2023 and over the next 7 months, waited patiently for a forever home while in the loving care of her foster mom Su. In March 2024, T-Belle journeyed up to the Kings SPCA where more people could see how sweet she was and her chances of being adopted would increase.

The SPCA makes every effort to place special needs pets with their perfect human match. As it turns out, T-Belle had caught the eye of her perfect match Paulette back in the fall of 2023.  Paulette’s beloved cat Major had recently passed away and it was too soon for her to think about adopting a new cat. Paulette noticed T-Belle was still up for adoption in February 2024 and again in April. It tugged at Paulette’s heartstrings to see that T-Belle hadn’t found a loving home yet.

Paulette said “It just so happened that I was going to be in the Kentville area for an appointment one day in April, so I went to the Kings shelter to see T-Belle. When I arrived in the parking lot, I saw a white puff in the window. I was quite sure it was T-Belle and it was!”

“When I met T-Belle, she was very friendly and sweet,” recalled Paulette. “She jumped up on my lap immediately and purred continuously. I visited her on another occasion and she did exactly the same thing. What drew me to her was the fact that she was so sweet and had still not been adopted. I knew that having some special needs might make T-Belle less likely to get adopted. The SPCA did a great job of explaining what would be entailed in T-Belle’s care and I knew I would be able to do it. She had found her forever home.”

T-Belle is definitely living her best life. Paulette explained “She seems very happy and purrs a lot.  She’s blossomed into a chatter-box and makes cute little meows as well as chirps and trills. Her favorite thing to do is to lie on the loveseat, sunbathe and watch the birds. She’s also a great snuggle-bug! Toy-wise, she loves to play with toys that move. Occasionally, she’ll get the ‘zoomies’ in the middle of the night and broad-jump over me.”

In terms of caring for T-Belle, Paulette said “I only need to do little things for her here and there. She eats a special diet for food sensitivity. I mash up her soft food and add water to her kibble and soak it for some time due to her having no teeth. She is very good at taking her thyroid pill with food twice a day. She enjoys grooming herself and loves being brushed. She needs a little extra attention with kitty wipes and occasional baths to keep her coat fresh and clean due to staining. She’s not crazy about being bathed but seems to mind it less over time. She definitely loooooooves being wrapped up in a towel after her bath – she purrs and purrs!”

Paulette said she is grateful to everyone at the SPCA for giving T-Belle a second chance at happiness. She also wanted to give special thanks to Su, T-Belle’s fabulous foster mom. “Su was always so helpful; she answered the many questions I had about T-Belle, her history and care,” related Paulette.

Adopting T-Belle has definitely enriched Paulette’s life. She explained “T-Belle has brought much enjoyment with her sweet personality and she is a wonderful companion” Paulette encourages everyone to consider adopting a special needs pet. “You need to be sure it’s right for you and it could be challenging if it’s your first-ever cat. I had had several cats before so felt comfortable adopting T-Belle. These pets may need some extra time and patience, but they deserve a chance to show you how amazing they are. It’s one of the most rewarding things you can do.”

 

Understanding the commitment involved in adopting a special needs pet is crucial to a happy and 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 behavioral needs may need 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 or volunteer 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. She is committed to speaking for animals who cannot speak for themselves.