Author: Taylor Huestis

Little Girl, Big Heart

September 21, 2021

By Judy Layne

Some of the smallest people have the biggest hearts when it comes to homeless animals. Take Jersey Matheson for example. Jersey is only 7 years old, but in her short life she has shown more kindness, selflessness and generosity than many of us can claim for a lifetime. We wanted to celebrate this pint-sized super-hero’s recent hard work that has made a big difference in the lives of Nova Scotia SPCA animals.

Jersey’s proud mom Danielle said “Jersey’s love for animals was apparent from a very early age. When she began crawling, she would wriggle her way over to our dog Harley and sleep with him in his bed. Harley is still Jersey’s best buddy and loyal sidekick.”  Danielle continued “Jersey has a big heart and always wants to make people smile. This spring, she decided that she wanted to raise funds in memory of Leigh-Anne Cox as part of Leigh-Anne’s Legacy.  She brain-stormed different ideas and said she was determined to run a lemonade stand this summer.”

Jersey asked her parents about the things that Leigh-Anne loved. “We told her that Leigh-Anne was a dedicated volunteer at the Cape Breton SPCA, where she showed unconditional love and kindness to animals,” relates Danielle.  “And that’s where Jersey decided that the money she raised would go.”

As fate would have it, someone was selling a lemonade stand on Facebook. Incredibly, Jersey went and bought it with her own birthday money. What an amazing young lady! People heard about her initiative and donated cups, lids, ice and lemonade to help her out. Support from the community was amazing and when the heatwave struck in late July, Jersey was ready to go!

On July 25, big sister Taylor helped Jersey set up and operate the lemonade stand. Tons of people stopped by to offer praise and encouragement and to make a donation. It warmed Jersey’s heart that Leigh-Anne’s mom and friends were also there with support and gratitude. In August, Jersey stopped by the Cape Breton SPCA and made Thankful Thursday extra special when she proudly presented a $2,000 cheque for her furry friends!

While this was the first time Jersey raised money for the SPCA, she’s a fundraising pro, and was previously involved with Jayitforward and the Christmas Crew. Her thoughtfulness extends to everyday things as well, for example, bringing extra gloves for her classroom on a cold day in case anyone forgot theirs. She’s looking forward to the time when she can volunteer at the SPCA shelter.

Teaching kids to be kind to animals is one of the most important life-lessons parents can pass along to them. Danielle emphasized “As parents, we need to teach kids at a young age to be kind in every way they can, both to animals and to people. We also need to encourage and support them in their efforts – whether it be doing a little fundraiser, donating things or giving their time.”

And Jersey’s final thoughts????? “Doing things that make other people happy makes me happy. It can make you happy too.”

Let’s give a huge round of ‘a-paws’ to kids like Jersey who are doing amazing things to help homeless animals.  Let’s encourage other kids to become heroes for homeless animals too.

 

We hope that Jersey’s story inspired you. There are lots of great ways for kids to help homeless animals. Here are some favourites.  

Ask for birthday donations. Kids can ask family and friends to bring donations for homeless animals instead of birthday presents.

Organize a fun fundraiser. Kids can host fund-raisers like lemonade stands, bake sales and car washes in their neighborhood or at church or school to raise money for homeless animals.  They can also collect recyclable cans, take them to the local recycling center and donate the proceeds to a shelter or rescue.

Conduct a ‘Wish List’ drive. Kids can ask their teachers if they can lead a donation drive at their school to collect items that shelter animals need, like food, toys, beds, towels and blankets.  Or they can get creative by hosting a movie night or ice cream party for friends, with a Wish List item as admission.  The SPCA’s Wish List for animals can be found here.

Have a friendly competition at school. Kids can hold a pop can or coin drive with a catchy name such as ‘Pop Cans for Pets’, ‘Cans for Cats’ or ‘Dimes for Dogs’ and make it a competition between classes, grades or the entire school.  Winners can receive awards such as ‘Top Crusaders for Cats’ or ‘Dogs’ Best Friends.’

Educate friends and family. Kids can play an important role in helping people understand that spaying/neutering their pets can help reduce the number of homeless animals. They can make bookmarks, posters or write a report for class about the importance of spaying/neutering your pet.

Adopt pets from the SPCA or a registered rescue. Kids can lead by example by adopting a homeless pet from a recognized rescue.

Foster an animal. Kids can ask their parents to help them foster a homeless animal. They’ll be helping two animals – the one they foster and another one who will get a place in the shelter.

Lead by example. Along with their parents, kids can make sure their family’s pets are spayed/neutered, have up-to-date vaccinations, ID tags and a microchip in case they get lost.

 

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.

Rescued Blind Kitten Becomes Famous

August 18, 2021

By Taylor Mundy

Just a few weeks old, this stray kitten was struggling to survive on her own. Thankfully, she was scooped up and brought to safety at the SPCA. Here at the shelter, she was given her very own name… Pringles.

But little did anyone know that name would become famous very, very soon.

Pringles was blind, covered in flea dirt, and was so young her baby teeth were still coming in. Her eyes were causing her pain so Pringles received medical surgery before things got worse. Pringles quickly bounced back and recovered.

The Nova Scotia SPCA has an amazing partnership with Jack 92.9.  Sponsored by Bedford Neighbourhood Pub, they highlight an adorable adoptable animal every week for Wet Nose Wednesday.

Pringles was featured and her video went viral!

To date, there are more than 6.1 million views, 91,000 shares and 24,000 comments. You can check out the original video here!

Hundreds of adoption applications came flooding in from loving families. Pringles went from being homeless and alone to truly having her pick of the litter. Who would she pick?!

“She decided for us,” Pringles’ fur-mama shared. “She curled up in my partner’s neck and stayed there. We knew right then she would be coming home. We filled out the application and came back the next day to pick her up – which was my birthday!”

It didn’t take long for Pringles to settle in with her new life and family. She is constantly keeping them entertained with her wild antics. “Everything about her is memorable” laughed her fur-mama. “She LOVES climbing curtains and guaranteed whenever I work out she’ll plonk herself right down on my mat.”

So… has the fame gone to Pringles’ head?

“She is very vocal,” giggled her fur-mama. “We have her leash-trained and she demands outdoor time. She loves getting head scratches but only as much as she will allow. She also knows her supper time… god forbid you’re late or take too long and she will make her disappointment known.” I think all cat owners can 100% relate to that!

Even with the fame, Pringles doesn’t have a diva-like personality. She is affectionate, sweet, and seems to have a knack for knowing when her family needs some extra loving. Her fur-mama explained “During the pandemic, two of our bunnies passed away at 13 years old. Pringles knew somehow and stayed by their cages for days after. She’ll curl up in my partner’s arms and sometimes on the bed. It is always a good feeling.”

We think you’ll agree that although Pringles is missing both her eyes, she gives and deserves 2x the amount of love.

 

 

Taylor Mundy

Taylor is the Communications & Development Officer with the Nova Scotia SPCA and proud adoptive fur-mama to Bonnie and Clyde. She is passionate about raising awareness and funds for local animals in need.

I Didn’t Choose to be a Stray

August 18, 2021

A few years ago, one special poem touched the hearts of thousands of animal-lovers. Our very own Judy Layne, who generously volunteers her time and talent for the Paw Print, became well-known throughout the world for her writing. A cat rescue organization miles and miles away in Wisconsin even shared the poem reaching 75,000 people! Altogether, the poem has reached more than 175,000 people and shared more than 3,500 times. Wow!!

Grab your tissues and prepare yourselves for her beautiful poem below. After that, please join us in giving a round of a-paws for the talented and dedicated Judy Layne.

 

I didn’t choose to be a stray
I was born into this life
Of loneliness and sadness
Of hardship and of strife.

 

With heavy heart and tired paws
I walk the streets on end
No family to call my own
No one to call my friend.

 

I’ve never had a loving home
No door has opened wide
No friendly voice has called to me
“Poor kitty, come inside.”

 

I’ve never had a windowsill
To lie on in the sun
No cozy bed to snuggle in
When the day is done.

 

I have no one to comfort me
When I am hurt or sick
Instead I’m chased away with brooms
Or hit with stones and sticks.

 

I have feelings, thoughts and dreams
And so much love to give
But I have no one to love me back
So I simply try to live.

 

My hunger and my thirst are great
My legs are growing weak
I hope that someone rescues me
Some kindness do I seek.

 

But no one stops to offer help
They look and walk away
They do not hear my plaintive cries
I’m just a scruffy stray.

 

My head I can no longer lift
No rescuer I see
I close my eyes but I’m afraid
What will become of me?

 

I dreamed I met a man of light
Who looked at me and smiled
“I see your pain and loneliness
Let me comfort you my child.”

 

He said “While people see a stray
So matted, frail and thin
I see the goodness of your heart
Your loving soul within.”

 

He cradled me in gentle arms
And whispered in my ear
“Come with me, you’ll have a home
Where all will hold you dear.”

 

“You’ll hurt no more, nor be afraid
And you’ll see wondrous things
Some angels have fur and paws
Before they get their wings.”

-Judy Layne

 

Bilbo Waggins’ Incredible Journey

August 18, 2021

By Judy Layne

On June 25, 2020 SPCA Enforcement Officers responded to a dog running loose. He was starving; nothing more than skin and bones.  His ribs were poking out and he was covered in sores.  A male Boxer typically weighs 70 pounds, but the dog barely weighed 30 pounds.  When dogs are this emaciated, their organs begin to shut down.

As a direct result of the dog’s poor physical condition and investigation, he was seized and rushed in for emergency veterinary care. The caregivers were given a seizure notice and appeal documents. However, no appeal was filed with the Animal Welfare Appeal Board.

The SPCA medical team wasn’t sure he would survive the weekend.

Since he was sadly half the size of a healthy dog, had hairy feet and a long journey to recovery ahead of him, shelter staff took inspiration from Lord of the Rings and named him Bilbo Waggins.

As a proud no-kill organization, the Nova Scotia SPCA was determined to do everything possible to help Bilbo.  But they couldn’t do it alone.  They put out a call for help and the response was overwhelming.  Compassionate animal-lovers from across Canada generously donated to help cover the cost of Bilbo’s intensive medical care on his journey to recovery.  Thanks to your donations, Bilbo was given a second chance for a safe, happy and healthy life.  He definitely felt your love and support!

Bilbo was under round-the-clock care and monitoring and started a new feeding schedule of small frequent meals.  He slowly gained weight and strength.  By the end of July, he was feeling much better.  In early August, Bilbo was medically cleared and posted for adoption on the SPCA website.  Applications came flooding in!  The SPCA began booking meet-and-greets to find the perfect match for Bilbo.  After receiving interest from some amazing homes, Bilbo was adopted on August 17th by his fur-ever family!

I caught up with Bilbo’s fur-dad Andrew. “Bilbo looks identical to my older dog Rika’ shares Andrew.  “‘When his story first came out, a number of my friends saw his photo and sent it to me wondering if he was related to Rika.  He was from the same area and had a similar sad story.” Andrew continues “I was drawn to him immediately after seeing the heartbreaking picture of him on the day he was rescued.  That picture grabbed my heart and squeezed.  His eyes were so sad.  He was a skeleton with some skin.  He looked as if he had given up on life.  I knew he was destined to be in my life.”

Bilbo was a little unsure about his new surroundings at first.  “He was understandably food-obsessed for the first 4 months, but he began to trust that he would be fed several times a day,” relates Andrew.  “We knew he was going to be fine after he ate his first dinner.  He rolled on his back and made all kinds of happy sounds. Then we gave him his first toy and he spent 20 minutes running back and forth in the house parading it around.  He still does that every day!  He just loves his toys.”

Bilbo had every reason to be mistrustful of people.  But Andrew states that he’s the exact opposite.  “He’s incredibly trusting and loves people.   Bilbo adores children and takes it upon himself to keep them safe, making sure that they don’t get too close to the shore or stairs.”

Andrew shares that Bilbo is amazingly tuned-in to people and their emotions.  “He looks at your eyes and gets a read on how you’re feeling.  If you crack a smile, he smiles back and does a little dance.”  But Bilbo’s heart is also attuned to sadness.  “One day I was at a friend’s house,” shares Andrew.  “She was having a terrible time dealing with a divorce.   She broke down, cried and sat on the kitchen floor.  Bilbo went and grabbed his toy, brought it over to her and placed it in her lap almost to say, ‘I see you’re sad.  Here is my toy.  You can have it because it makes me happy and it should make you happy too.’”

Bilbo is definitely living his best life, filled with adventures and beach days.  Among his favorite things to do – walks, walks and more walks’ chuckles Andrew.  “He also loves taking every opportunity to find a good vantage point for a scenic view where he will sit for hours just taking it all in.   It’s remarkable to watch him appreciate the little moments. He reminds me that I should do the same thing.”

I asked Andrew what Bilbo has brought to his life.  “Like Rika, Bilbo keeps me balanced.  I used to work 15-hour days 6 days a week.  When they came into my life, that changed overnight.  Bilbo comes with me everywhere.  I never ask if it’s ok if I bring a dog over to a friend’s house.  He and I are a package deal.  If I go, he goes!” laughs Andrew.

In August last year, Andrew decided to create an Instagram account for Bilbo, so animal lovers could follow along with his latest adventures. Today, Bilbo has over 700 followers!  Andrew states “I think if Bilbo could talk, he would say “ADOPT, DON’T SHOP”.  That’s why it’s always the first Hashtag we put on his Instagram posts.   People sometimes want a purebred dog or a puppy.   That’s a shame since there are so many deserving mixed-breed dogs and older dogs who just need a chance…..all they want is for someone to love them.  Bilbo was a very sick older dog who will need medicine and a special diet for the rest of his life.  Dogs like him tend to get overlooked, but for me, he is absolutely perfect.”

August 17th is the one-year anniversary of Bilbo’s ‘Gotcha’ Day.’  I asked Andrew to reflect back on their first year together and the journey that Bilbo has taken.  “I’m so proud of Bilbo” relates Andrew.   “Every day, people say ‘That is one well behaved dog’ or ‘Your dog is super-cool.’ I love watching him enjoy himself. I’m just amazed that it’s been a year already! On his special day, I think we’ll go for a sail and I’ll share some imported Havarti cheese with him,” laughs Andrew.

Andrew’s final thoughts? “I run through that fateful day in my head. I can imagine the glimmer of hope he would have had in his heart and his feeling of liberation as he charged forward as fast as his weary feet could carry him.  And then, in that most perfect moment, the SPCA were driving by and saw him running across a field. I’m so glad they found him. I’m so grateful he came into my life.”

 

Click here for Bilbo’s Instagram account. Check out some of his awesome pictures and his wonderful adventures!

 Thanks to you, Bilbo is living his happily-ever after. Please help other animals like Bilbo by donating today.

The SPCA Enforcement team conducted a thorough and careful investigation. As a result, charges were laid under the Animal Protection Act of Nova Scotia against Bilbo’s previous owners. Further details cannot be released or discussed while the court process is proceeding.

 

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 Christmas Cat Who Brings Joy to the World All Year Long

August 18, 2021

By Judy Layne

Sometimes, 13 can be a lucky number.  The tiny kitten was the 13th animal that this dedicated foster family took into their hearts and home for the Nova Scotia SPCA.  She’s not only a star in the family’s life now, but a social media celebrity as well.  Here’s her story.

On November 26, 2020, two kittens were brought to the Dartmouth SPCA. They were covered in fleas and had anemia. Shelter staff named them John and Yoko. Sadly, even though he received emergency care, little John didn’t survive. Yoko continued to be monitored and cared for and when her health improved, the call went out for a foster home where she could be socialized before being put up for adoption.

Angela and her family had been selflessly fostering kittens for several years. Because of their dedicated efforts, an amazing 12 foster kittens had already received a head-start in life and a chance for the happiness that they deserve. The family stepped up once again to answer the call about Yoko, who would be their 13th foster fur-baby.

I asked Angela what made her decide to become a foster parent. “Our 3 kids – Aliana, Dorian and Anneka – were interested in getting a pet, but we weren’t sure we were ready for a life-long commitment despite of our love of animals. After seeing photos of foster kittens that some of our friends were caring for, our kids lobbied us to foster. We decided that fostering would be a great way to let them learn about caring for animals, empathy and responsibility.” She continues “The kids are directly involved in fostering – feeding, cleaning litter boxes and especially, socialization. They hold and play with the kittens non-stop.  All the kittens that have left our home are 100% guaranteed to be ready for cuddles by any age child.”

Yoko first joined the Siegels when she was four weeks old. It didn’t take long before this fluffy little cutie made herself right at home. Angela shares “All of the kittens that we fostered were so adorable and lovable (after a bit of socializing at least – a few were a bit hissy when they first arrived!). However, before Yoko, the others all came in batches of 3 or 4. It’s much easier to say no to keeping 4 kittens than it is to keeping one (especially when each child is lobbying to keep a different kitten!). She laughs “Honestly, we didn’t expect to keep any! That being said, I often took adoption papers home as I fell in love with each batch!”

“When we got the call from the SPCA about Yoko and learned that her litter-mate John had passed away, I was concerned that this tiny kitten might not make it,” relates Angela. “However, on the way home she proved to be quite the feisty one! On our daughter’s lap in her cat carrier, she chased shadows back and forth in her little cage. She was hilarious and had loads of personality. She was snuggly and sweet from day one.”

It didn’t take long for Yoko to win everyone’s heart in the family. Angela chuckles “I also don’t think it took too long for me to realize that I’d likely become a ‘Foster Failure.’” Just before Christmas, the Siegels chose to adopt her and aptly named her Noelle.

Noelle has definitely brought joy and laughter to the family’s life. “She’s a perfect blend of buff-colored cuteness, but her background isn’t known,” Angela shares “While we’re sure she’s not a whale shark, she does have stripes and spots! She’s super-cuddly AND super-playful. She loves to be wherever her people are and will follow them around throughout the day and sleep with them at night. One of her special tricks? “She can fall asleep within seconds of playing at full speed!”

Noelle never ceases to amaze the family. “Cats aren’t known for loving water, but I think Noelle might not know this!” Angela explains. “She takes weekly baths with our youngest daughter and even likes her kitten shampoo and bath time. If anyone is ever in the washroom, she jumps up onto the sink in the hopes that they will turn on the tap. If they do, she will step in and drink straight from the faucet. She has sometimes even slept in the sink while it was dripping slowly onto her. We are slightly concerned that she has learned how to turn on the faucet!”

And Hollywood stars are not the only ones to see their name in lights. Noelle has been featured in Dalhousie University’s Pets of Dalhousie’ publication. With over 100 followers, she’s also featured on an Instagram the Siegels set up to show the antics and adventures that come with fostering kittens.

I asked Angela if she thinks that fame has gone to Noelle’s head. “I’m fairly certain we’re safe there! Noelle is pretty well grounded. She’s also great at inspiring others to learn more about the Nova Scotia SPCA and about fostering. She has been on many outings to our kids’ schools and has had lots of visitors. She’s a very effective SPCA Ambassador!”

 

Prepare for cuteness. Click here for Noelle’s Instagram account. Check out some of the awesome photos of Noelle and other kittens that the Siegel family has fostered.

To find out more about fostering and how you can help, 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.

Puuurrmanent Mental Health Hero

July 22, 2021

By Taylor Mundy

This past year has been extremely difficult on everyone. COVID-19 put a serious emotional strain on all of us. We often hear people share what helped them get through these challenging times.

Was it ZOOM dates? Or learning how to make sourdough? Nope. It was pets.

For many, our animals became our mental health heroes. The bond we share with our pets is so powerful. They bring us comfort, companionship and motivation.

That is exactly what happened with Kailyn and her sweet kitty, Rumble. But before they could meet, Rumble had his own wellness journey to conquer.

Weighing just one pound, Rumble and his siblings were brought to safety at the SPCA. They were only four weeks old so they all needed around-the-clock foster care. The kitties were treated for their lice and they all started to make great improvements.

Except for Rumble.

His poor little eyes were filled with green gunk. He was struggling to find and use the litterbox and was suffering from an upset belly. With some special food and medication, slowly but surely Rumble’s health began to come around.

Finally, Rumble was medically cleared and ready for his forever family. He patiently watched as his sisters and brothers were scooped up and adopted. But when would Rumble meet his match?

Well, it turns out, it happened by complete accident… or maybe fate. “I was able to meet him by absolute luck,” shared Kailyn, Rumble’s fur-parent. “I remember the employee at the Lily Pat Cat Lounge (one of the awesome adoption partners of the SPCA) was worried he’d be the last one to be adopted as he had some health concerns, so naturally I was drawn to him, the odd one out always has the biggest place in my heart. Boy, did I ever get lucky!”

“This past year has been one of the toughest for me and my mental health,” Kailyn continued. “Rumble has been by my side through it all. I noticed after we brought him home he was very unique. He has a perfect heart shaped spot on his back and this has always symbolized the love and joy he’s brought into my life since day one.”

Rumble is a constant companion and makes Kailyn laugh every day. “He is the funniest, ditsiest cat I’ve ever met. He taught me that not all cats land on their feet but somehow are smart enough to learn to give ‘high five.’ He also taught me that snuggles are only acceptable if mom is the big spoon. It’s never a dull moment with him around. He is a fan favourite to anyone who comes to visit.”

Because Rumble has made such an impact on Kailyn’s life with his unconditional love, she decided to make hers unconditional as well. “I even got a portrait of his precious face tattooed on me,” Kailyn smiled. “Thank you for giving me the opportunity to love him forever.”

Feeling inspired? Learn more about how to get involved and help by clicking here.

Taylor Mundy

Taylor is the Communications & Development Officer with the Nova Scotia SPCA and proud adoptive fur-mama to Bonnie and Clyde. She is passionate about raising awareness and funds for local animals in need.