Author: Taylor Huestis

Foster Turned Forever

May 19, 2021

By Taylor Mundy

Some pets need a little extra TLC or are too young for adoption. To help them grow big, strong and healthy, many pets join the SPCA foster program. The SPCA provides all the supplies and fosters open their hearts and homes until the pet is ready for their forever family.

But sometimes things don’t go as planned.

This, my friends, is affectionally called a foster failure.

While it is technically a failure because foster placements are meant to be temporary, this is also a big success. It usually means you fell hopelessly in love and the pet has found their perfect match.

And this is exactly what happened with Rufus and Rick.

Rufus was an adorable black Shepherd Labrador mix. He was experiencing separation anxiety which would cause him to sometimes pee in the house. To help with his socialization, he joined the SPCA foster program and was matched up with Rick. “The first time I met Rufus was while I was volunteering at the SPCA walking dogs,” Rick remembered. “Cocoa, our family dog, inspired us to go to the SPCA and help less fortunate dogs. I wanted to get into fostering so I agreed to foster Rufus.”

“When we first brought Rufus home he was nervous,” Rick recalled. “He peed a little in the house. The poor guy had been returned a few times because of those issues. With daily exercise, love, and understanding that we weren’t going to just up and leave him, all those issued were fixed.”

When it came time for Rufus to go up for adoption, Rick and his family couldn’t stop thinking about what a great dog he was. “I knew deep down Rufus wasn’t going anywhere,” Rick smiled. Rufus had already found his forever family so they made it official.

“Rufus taught me and my son the joy and unconditional love a dog brings to your life,” Rick exclaimed. “The loving you just for you, no matter what you have or don’t have. Rufus taught us how much we love and need dogs in our lives.”

That’s not all. Rufus also taught his forever family how to live in the moment.

“We used to go to White Point every summer,” shared Rick. “The first time Rufus came with us was not long after we first adopted him. I’ll never forget that one night while we we’re sitting on the beach I look over at Rufus and he was sitting up looking over the water as the fresh ocean breeze washed over his face. You could literally see the appreciation he had to be experiencing the freedom of sitting on a beach and taking in all the smells. It wouldn’t be the only time throughout his life I’d catch him truly living in the moment, but it was the first time I witnessed it and it’s a special memory.”

Rufus and his fur-sister Cocoa were inseparable. Whether it was trying to jump through the window at Tim Hortons to grab a timbit or they were cuddling up with Rick’s son, the pups were always making the family smile and laugh.

But sadly, after a long, happy life, Rufus passed on. Five months later, Cocoa joined Rufus at Rainbow Bridge. “It was always Cocoa and Rufus together,” Rick grieved. “There is not a day that goes by that we don’t think about them. We miss them and are forever grateful for the paw prints they both left on our hearts.”

Inspired by Rufus and Cocoa, the family turned their compassion into action and made a generous donation to the SPCA. They also kindly treated the staff and volunteers to gift cards for a local pizza shop.

“Me and my son were inspired to donate to the SPCA because the work you guys do is meaningful,” gushed Rick. “We thought it would be nice for all of you to know that without the dedication and hard work both physically and emotionally that you all put in, beautiful souls like Rufus wouldn’t have the chance to live the life they deserve.”

“Not to mention all the memories that we would never have gotten to experience if you guys didn’t take the time to help him find his forever home,” Rick continued. “Those 2 reasons are priceless. There is no donation big enough to say thank you enough for that.”

Fostering for Rick and his family was truly life changing. And for Rufus, and other homeless pets, Rick’s family and their support is lifesaving.

 

 

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.

Skipping School to Save Shelter Pets

May 19, 2021

By Taylor Mundy

Lila, 7, is a cat fanatic. In fact, her second word was “meow.” Her 9-year-old twin brothers, Luke and William, love animals just as much. Whether it is cats and dogs or giraffes and tigers, they all love learning about animals and helping pets in need.

So, when Lila, Luke and William approached their mom with a unique idea to help the SPCA, she wasn’t that surprised.

The trio set a goal to fundraise $1,000 for furry friends in need. And the coolest part? If they met their goal, they would be allowed to miss one day of school!

“We love animals and want to save them,” Luke exclaimed. “Think about if that was you. Would you want to be left out on the road?” “Some animals need help,” Lila continued. “The SPCA rescues animals.” With no government funding for our shelters, donations are truly lifesaving.

To put their compassion into action, the kiddos created promotional art and videos. They even created donor levels depending on how much a person gave with Ultra Mega Dragon as the top tier.

“They thanked donors with art or videos shout-outs,” shared their proud mama, Christa. “When they were getting behind in the fundraising challenge, they made a video to show them virtually going door-to-door and shared it with our neighbourhood Facebook page. Luke even sweetened the pot and made chocolate chip cookies to go to the highest bidder within walking distance. Lila thanked neighbours by writing chalk messages on their driveways!”

Their hard work paid off. In less than 72 hours, Lila, Luke and William surpassed their goal. They raised $1,305 in total!!

“It’s lots of fun,” beamed William. “When kids work hard they can make a difference.”

When we caught up with the kiddos to thank them, we asked how fundraising and helping others made them feel. Lila was the first to pipe up and say “happy.” Luke chimed in and said he felt “proud and happy” and William shared he felt “enthusiastic and encouraged.” They hope to inspire even more kids to fundraise for causes they care about.

“They had a great time working towards their goal and got a lot of support from friends and family,” Christa smiled. “They are learning that they have the power to make change and do good for others. We are very proud of them.”

To hold up her end of their agreement, their parents planned for their one day off school. But the kids didn’t know their parents were also planning a big surprise…

Everyone was ready to add a few furry friends into their family soon. But Lila, Luke and William didn’t know it would be on their special day off! They used their day off school to meet and take home two adorable kittens. The day was filled with a different type of learning and love to celebrate their hard work.

“The kittens are doing really well,” the entire family gushed. “Their names are Ozzy and Milo and they are brothers. They are making friends with our dog, Baxter, and like watching our Bearded Dragon, Jrako.”

Lila, Luke and William show that no matter your age you can create change. You are never too small to make a big difference. Thank you for inspiring and empowering us!

 

 

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.

Bear Touches Hearts Near and Far

May 19, 2021

By Judy Layne

You may have heard the saying “It takes a village to raise a child.” I think it takes a community of caring people who turn their compassion into action to ultimately save an animal’s life and give them a chance for the happiness they deserve. Many of you will remember sweet Bear. His story is a perfect example of people turning compassion into action.

On April 26, 2019 the Nova Scotia SPCA received a complaint from a caring citizen that a dog was outside with porcupine quills in his face. Enforcement Officers responded and found a large dog is distress.  When the owner refused to seek treatment, the dog was seized and immediately brought to the SPCA shelter for urgent medical care. The shelter named him Bear.

Bear had been neglected so long that the fishhook barbs in the quills deepened causing a severe infection. He was rushed to emergency surgery to remove the buried quills. Bear had been kept outdoors for most of his life. He had sores on his joints, a burning ear infection, overgrown nails and a dirty, matted coat. The quills had worked their way behind Bear’s eye and he was at risk of losing his sight. He received round-the-clock care, a variety of medications and endured 3 separate surgeries to remove buried quills as they emerged.

As a proud no-kill organization, the Nova Scotia SPCA was determined to do everything possible to help Bear. 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 stepped up to the plate and generously donated to help cover the cost of Bear’s medical care on his journey to recovery. Thanks to your donations, Bear was given a second chance for a safe, happy and healthy life. He definitely felt your love and support!

Eventually, Bear made a full recovery and on May 19th, he found his fur-ever family. Like many people, Holly and her 2 sons, Declan and Nolan, first learned about Bear on the SPCA’s Facebook page.  “He was looking up with his injured eye. He looked so sad and our hearts went out to him,” shares Holly. “We attended a meet-and-greet and it was game over as soon as we met him. We knew he needed to be part of our family.” Bear had to remain at the shelter for several days pending adoption approval and to complete a round of medication. Holly explains “After our initial meeting, Bear watched us leave through the shelter’s door. It was so hard to leave him but we promised him that we’d be back.”

Holly says “The first thing Bear did when we got home was to jump up on my bed, so I’d say he settled in very quickly!” She continues “He was cuddly and loving from the get-go and he definitely soaks up all the hugs. It did take him a few months to begin to play, however, likely a reflection of his previous life.”

“After adopting Bear, we learned that he used to walk several miles to a family with children,” relates Holly. “He was loved there and was used to children because of this kind family. We have met them and it was wonderful. They were his refuge. He was loved by them regardless of the unfortunate situation where he lived. We are very grateful for their compassion and caring.”

Holly exclaims “Bear is just so full of love. We can’t imagine life before him now.  He comes everywhere with us. He has filled our home and our hearts.”  And on the list of Bear’s favorite things? “He absolutely loves cuddling and enjoys just being near us, going for walks, being brushed, and his monthly grooming appointment! He also gets really excited when the boys and I put on music and dance. He has his own way of joining us and it is adorable,” chuckles Holly.

“The second anniversary of Bear’s “Gotcha Day” is May 19th and the date has special meaning for the family. “I cried like a baby the day we finally were able to bring him home and we’re very thankful for him every day,” shares Holly. In fact, Bear may soon get a canine brother. Holly explains “We think that Bear would love having another fur-baby in the house to play with, so we’re seriously considering adopting another deserving dog.”

Holly shares “We are so grateful to the NS SPCA for saving Bear and bringing him into our life.  Since adopting him, additional quills started making their way out of his eye. The SPCA took such good care of him; everyone was wonderful. He’s had no problems since this last surgery – maybe a little Covid weight, but we’re all working on that!”, she laughs.

Holly continues “We are also grateful to all the people who donated to our sweet Bear’s recovery. There are so many wonderful people with huge hearts out there. So many people reached out and even sent care packages to Bear.  One sweet lady even made him a blanket and put a heart inside of it.”

Thanks to you, Bear found his fur-ever family and is living his happily-ever after. Please help other animals like Bear by donating today.

Charges were laid against Bear’s previous owner under the Animal Protection Act for permitting an animal to be in distress and failing to provide adequate medical attention. His previous owner was sentenced for cruelty and the court imposed a fine of $50 on his owner. The SPCA continues to push for a more humane Nova Scotia by advocating for the ethical treatment of all companion animals, and hope the courts do their part as well. 

Each one of us can play an important role in advocating for animals. Animals can’t speak. We must be their voice. It will take time, but with your support, we will fight for justice for companion animals. To this end, I’m reminded of a quote by Margaret Mead……  “Never doubt that a thoughtful group of citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.”

 

 

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.

Heaven Helps Homeless Animals

May 19, 2021

By Judy Layne

What’s in a name? Perhaps a great deal. This is the story of a sweet dog named Heaven whose loving, kind forgiving nature matches her name and inspires others to turn compassion into action.

On June 21, 2012 Heaven and her ‘sister’ Sweet Pea were rescued by SPCA Enforcement Officers and brought to safety at the Dartmouth shelter. They were both severely underweight, covered in fleas and had major dental problems. After receiving needed medical care, staff and volunteers worked tirelessly to build the dogs’ confidence and trust of people. They were a bonded pair and needed to be adopted together.

On August 30th Judy Crump and her partner Catherine Lambert visited the shelter. Judy shares “We were originally drawn to Sweet Pea, a beagle mix, as our beloved beagle Millie had recently passed away. But it didn’t take long to become smitten with Heaven too. A beautiful bulldog/boxer mix, her sweet personality and affectionate gentle nature drew us in. So we left the shelter with two dogs instead of one!”

“Sweet Pea had a loving home for 6 years before she crossed the Rainbow Bridge,” says Judy.  “Heaven definitely missed her sister but adapted well. She claimed a blue leather chair which she still loves to sleep in, stand on to look out the window, and which we believe comforted her when she was alone. It now bears multiple layers of duct tape that cover the holes made from Heaven scratching when she was alone while I was at work. Mercifully, this stopped with my retirement!” Judy chuckles.

“Heaven enjoys going for our daily 1 ½ hour morning walk, greeting every dog she meets with a huge tail wag,” relates Judy.  “She greets visitors at home with the same energy and enthusiasm and will immediately go to her toy basket for a headless limbless bear to toss in the air! She has always loved little dogs and puppies. They seem to instinctively sense her gentleness and feel safe with her.”

“Heaven has gotten to know many people in the neighborhood,” says Judy.  “Some people were afraid of her size at first but quickly learned she is the sweetest dog ever. Heaven has been an excellent SPCA ambassador, inspiring people to adopt deserving dogs.”

Judy continues “Heaven brought great comfort to my partner who was declining from Alzheimer’s. She has also been a great (though unofficial) therapy dog. She visited the nursing home with me many times to see my partner, happily greeting the residents, waiting patiently for their pats and cleaning up all the crumbs on the floor! She was always rewarded with a trip to the off-leash park on the way home.”

“Heaven definitely inspired me to turn compassion into action” exclaims Judy. “In addition to becoming a regular donor to the NS SPCA, the two of us embarked on a daily initiative. We go for a walk and pick up trash and refundable bottles/cans along the way. It helps to keep our neighborhood in the north end of Halifax clean and I donate all proceeds from the refundable items to the SPCA. Heaven patiently zig-zags on our walks and waits for me to pick up smaller items. It gives me great satisfaction to know I’m helping keep our city clean and helping homeless animals at the same time.”

Judy shares “Heaven has made such a difference in my life. She has taught me patience, the value of slowing down and savoring the little things. She has taught me that blue leather chairs are to be enjoyed; that pristine objects are less important than scratches on the hardwood floors that tell a story of a dog who found comfort, who belongs and who is much-loved in her home. Getting her was the best decision ever.”

“Heaven is 14 1/2 years old now, has arthritis, a heart murmur, and is on supportive care for her liver” says Judy.  “She is slowing down but still prances and plays like a puppy, though for shorter periods. I know the day will come when she goes to join Sweet Pea at the Rainbow Bridge and I will miss her terribly. But she has left a legacy of goodness in her wake.”

“I am so grateful for the SPCA’s tireless work in providing safety and comfort to animals across the province.  I hope to be able to give back more in the future,” Judy states.  And her advice to people about turning their compassion into action?  “If you’re thinking about getting a pet, please adopt a deserving animal.  There are many animals who need our support and many ways to help. You will meet others who love animals and feel the same way you do. You will also be rewarded with lessons learned and be inspired to do things you hadn’t imagined.”

 

 

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 Broke INTO the Shelter

April 23, 2021

By Taylor Mundy

Homeless pets are brought to the SPCA all the time. Sometimes they are surrendered because their owner passed away. Other times they are rescued from abuse or abandonment. On average, 20 pets are brought to safety at the SPCA every single day.

But it isn’t often that a cat comes to us all on their own.

So, we were shocked to see a fluffy buff-coloured kitty strutting outside the Kings SPCA Animal Shelter. Unsure of where he came from, staff and volunteers were hoping to bring him inside and affectionately named him Hobo. We caught Hobo intently watching as pets would leave the shelter with their new families. It must have been during one of those short visits that Hobo devised his plan to break in and find his own family too.

To help entice Hobo to come closer, we left out a few tasty treats. It was a success! Within one day, Hobo was being showered with love from inside the shelter. Even though his belly was full of tapeworms and he was covered in filth, he was friendly and seemed to appreciate the care.

Hobo was medically treated but he still had some sensitivity in his back leg. We explored further and discovered that he has arthritis and a grade 2/6 heart murmur. Even though they sound scary, thankfully both are treatable.

Hobo was placed with a loving foster family while we tried to figure out a diet that worked for his needs. Rose began fostering for the SPCA back in 2019 and has cared for 4 kittens and 3 cats – each coming with their own unique personalities. “I have always wanted to help animals in any way I can and when volunteering at the SPCA I began to see how many cats need that extra help to find their furever homes,” she shared. Rose hopes to be a veterinarian someday and has a true passion for animal care.

“When Hobo first came to our home he was instantly wanting love and attention,” Rose giggled. “He had some patches of fur missing and a completely shaved tail but that didn’t stop us from falling in love with him (after a nice bath of course).”

Rose, Hobo and her dog spent four months together and became the best of friends. “I think the most special part of our experience was his transformation,” she recalled. “With any foster you spend so much time with them and watch them grow into better versions of themselves it is truly a rewarding feeling to have. Saying goodbye is never easy but knowing that I did the best I could to get them ready for their furever homes always puts a smile on my face.” Rose shared that Hobo was one of her hardest goodbyes.

While Hobo was in foster care, we needed to experiment with different diets and medication to help with his digestive problems. His food and medical care were all covered thanks to generous donors. One of those donors was a 17-year-old student from Eskasoni.

“When I had first read Hobo’s story about him and his heart murmur, I instantly had made a connection between him and myself,” they shared. “When I was a kid, I had a couple of episodes where I was brought to the hospital because of my heart murmur. I remembered how painful they felt and the long moments in the hospital just wanting to go home and it had really just brought me into Hobo’s story. I knew I had to help him in any way possible. Every dollar counts and helps bring us closer to the goal, especially ones that really speak out to you! I hope that others can read this and know that no matter how much you give, it all helps and can change a life for the better.”

Hobo was medically cleared for adoption and it was not long before he was scooped up. A lifelong animal lover, Janice’s heart was still broken after the loss of her 2 cats. She wasn’t sure she was ready to bring another pet into her life. That is… until she saw Hobo’s sweet face posted online for adoption.

“I went to Waterville to meet him and he reached out and put both paws on my chest, bonked me in the head and rubbed my face with his,” she smiled. “How couldn’t I take him home?!”

Thanks to fabulous fosters like Rose, kind donors like the student, and amazing adopters like Janice, Hobo got the care and support he needed. We think it’s safe to say his master plan to break into the SPCA and find a family worked purrrrrfectly.

 

Feeling inspired? You can make more happily-ever-afters like this happen by adopting or donating today.

 

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.

Open Doors Open Hearts

April 23, 2021

By Taylor Mundy

Mother’s Day is just around the corner. For many, this is a joyous day to celebrate the amazing people who raised and loved us. But for those who have lost their mum or are unable to visit, the second Sunday in May can be difficult.

Many wonder how they can honour their mom in a meaningful way. For Joyce, she wanted to pay tribute to her mother’s memory by supporting a cause her mom cared deeply about.

“For the past two decades, my mom, Mildred Williams, was a HUGE supporter of the Nova Scotia SPCA’s mission,” Joyce shared. “As a seamstress, she had a storage room full of various textiles and projects underway that are sold to support the charity. Yet sadly, she passed away last fall.”

Joyce was heartbroken. Looking out at the room filled with beautiful materials and memories, she came up with an idea to make pet-themed door stoppers. “I was inspired to use up her cherished fabrics and ‘do some good’ in her honour,” she exclaimed. “Using unique buttons for eyes, no two door stoppers look alike!”

Just like that, Joyce got straight to work organizing everything. It wasn’t long before she had more than 100 adorable door stoppers ready! Designed to look like an owl, dog or cat, the door stoppers help keep your doors from shutting and help to open up doors and opportunities for homeless pets. Proceeds from the door stoppers are donated back to continue Mildred’s legacy of love.

This isn’t the first time Joyce has gone above and beyond to help pets in need. In fact, she is also a loyal monthly donor. “Monthly giving is a small way to make a big difference – as it all adds up,” Joyce explained. “In one month, most of us typically spend on non-essential items. Yet a deliberate gift to help orphaned, homeless or abused animals is a great investment in my community.”

Joyce is right! Giving monthly allows the Nova Scotia SPCA to plan ahead and invest in better long-term solutions. Animal-lovers can choose whatever amount (big or small) that is safely deducted every month to help pets who need it most.

Joyce has her mom to thank for instilling her love of pets and giving back. “Many life choices that we make are inspired through our parents. We have had many, amazing pets over the years. Each and every one of us can make a difference in our community. This is where we live! My challenge to your readers: What fun, creative item can you, your home or work family do this spring to help financially support these domestic animals that go under the care of the SPCA?” Psssssttttt… here are some ideas to get you started.

The adorable pet door stoppers are being sold at our SPCA Thrift Stores throughout the province. Supplies are limited but Joyce encourages you to reach out and she can coordinate a special product for you if you’re interested. “After all,” Joyce continues, “they make great Mother’s Day gifts!”

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.