Author: Taylor Huestis

Kids Who Care

July 9, 2020

By Judy Layne

Some of the smallest people have the biggest hearts when it comes to animals. We wanted to celebrate two of these pint-size super-heroes – Jayden Messom and Chloe Simms. Although both girls are only 10 years old, they’ve shown more kindness, selflessness and generosity to homeless animals than many of us can claim for a lifetime. Here’s how they’ve been making a big difference in the lives of Nova Scotia SPCA animals.

SPCA Superstar Jayden

 Jayden’s mom, Janice, says Jayden’s love for animals was apparent from a very early age. “In fact, one of her first words was “kitty,” though it came out more like “kkkkeeeyyy,”‘ chuckles Janice. “From our Lab Max and cat Kodak to the 2 stray kitties who found their way into our home, Jayden’s bond with animals has always been special,” she adds. “We also fostered a sweet dog named Luna from the Colchester SPCA so Jayden experienced caring for an animal until they found their forever home.”

Jayden relates that she’s a “kitty cuddler” at the Colchester shelter. “When we got Luna, I saw all the kitties in their cages and thought it was so sad that they were alone. I try to give them all cuddles and play with them.” Her favorite part of volunteering? “I love seeing the different personalities and am happy that they don’t stay long at the SPCA before finding their families,” shares Jayden.

Jayden prepping to dance for donations

Jayden really missed seeing the animals when the shelter was closed due to Covid-19. “I wanted to make sure that the cats and dogs had enough food to eat. I wanted to raise enough money for 3 bags of food for the SPCA”’ she says. And talk about creative??!! Jayden decided to “dance for donations.” “I made up signs and posted them in my neighborhood with the time, date and purpose of what I was raising money for. We downloaded some good dance music like Who Let The Dogs Out.”  While Jayden’s goal was $20… she raised a whopping $510 for SPCA animals. Way to go Jayden!

Chloe’s mom Aimee echoes that Chloe has always loved animals. “Chloe has shown an interest in and affection for animals since she was a toddler, and her love and passion for them has only grown since then,” relates Aimee.  “Chloe is the proud fur-mom of 3 lucky cats – Flip, Bubbles and Mya – and spends lots of time playing with them.”

SPCA Champion Chloe after dropping off lots of donations!

Chloe shares that she is also a ‘kitty cuddler’ at the Dartmouth shelter and walks dogs alongside her mom.  “I like going to the SPCA to meet all the furry faces and to show them kindness and love. I feel good knowing that the animals are well cared for and that they receive individual attention. I’d like to bring them all home with me if I could,” says Chloe.

Chloe cuddling her cat

Chloe and her mom regularly drop off donations, supplies and presents for animals at the shelter. “One of my hobbies is to go around with my brother Carter and collect bottles that people have thrown out of their vehicles.  Then I use the money to buy things that the SPCA has posted on their Wish List,” shares Chloe. Talk about initiative!! You rock Chloe!!  And her advice to other kids who’d like to help? “Even a small donation of supplies or your time can make a big difference to animals who are waiting for their forever homes.”

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

 

Each year, thousands of homeless animals cross the Nova Scotia SPCA’s doorstep. There are lots of great ways for kids to help them. Here are some favorites:

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 fundraisers 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.

Fostering: Pawsome for Pets and Kids

July 9, 2020

By Taylor Mundy

12-year-old Tylar Gray has already helped save 8 lives. How, might you ask? Through rescuing strays and fostering newborns!

Tylar’s passion for pets started when she was six. She fell in love with animals and has always been busy riding and working in the barn with horses.

Last December, Tylar and her family had a lifechanging experience.

They found a stray kitty that showed up to their house just before Christmas. Tylar took it upon herself to create a makeshift shelter from the weather complete with blankets, food, and water. She even included a stuffie for company for the cat!

Tylar’s mom, Meladee, posted on social media in hopes of reuniting the cat with a family. Sadly, there was no response. There was a big storm coming so they immediately took the cat inside where it would be safe. They brought the homeless cat to visit the vet where it was treated for fleas, ticks, worms, and a general health check.

With the family constantly on the road pursuing Tylar’s Equestrian competitions in Canada and the USA, they knew it would be difficult to have a full-time pet. Wanting the best for the cat, they reached out to the Yarmouth SPCA to see if we could find a loving family for the rescued kitty.

It was on that visit that we discussed fostering.

When you foster an animal, the SPCA provides you with all the litter, food, toys, and support. Your fostering situation is totally up to you and could be anything from bottle-feeding orphaned kittens to socializing an animal to rebuild their trust in humans. “We immediately fell in love with the idea of helping such vulnerable ones and really in a hard spot as they are not ready to be placed up for adoption,” says Meladee.

“Tylar and I discussed how this could be the perfect way for us to enjoy cats and help them find a good, healthy, loving home,” explains Meladee. “Fostering new families fit our lifestyle so we discussed the idea with my husband Rob who agreed. Tylar and I filled out the proper paperwork and anxiously awaited the phone call.”

Ring, ring! Tylar and Meladee picked up their first fosters – three baby kittens in need of care and love.

“Tylar is the main caretaker of the fosters,” says Meladee. “I mostly just oversee and make sure she has what she needs for them.” Tylar’s main duties include overseeing their safety, changing the litter, administering their medications (with supervision), providing them with food and water, and making sure they are cozy at night.

With all those important responsibilities, you can imagine how influential and rewarding this has been for Tylar and her family!

“Some of our favourite things about fostering are the snuggles we share with the kittens, the enjoyment of playtime and watching them grow and develop their personalities,” shares Tylar and Meladee. Tylar’s absolute favourite memory was when she taught the mother of their second litter of three to sit and stand on her back legs for a treat. Very impressive!

When the kitties are ready for adoption, Tylar prepares a write-up on each cat describing their personalities, habits, likes, and what kind of home she feels would benefit both the owner and pet.

“I feel involving children in fostering helps to develop empathy, responsibility, time management, emotional development, goals, and a true sense of pride to know, want and achieve knowing the help that they have made to someone else,” says Meladee. “I am very proud of the dedication she has put into fostering and helping in the community to help with her heart and time.” We couldn’t agree more!

Tylar has big dreams to continue to help animals in need. In fact, she shared that someday she would like to be a horse trainer, vet technician, or a possibly a veterinarian. We can’t wait to see what amazingness Tylar continues to bring to the animal welfare world.

Thank you for being a champion for pets in need, Tylar!

 

 

 

Taylor Mundy

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

Running for Rescues

June 16, 2020

By Taylor Mundy

Ron Nugent was not always a runner. Fur-dad, beloved brother, teacher – yes. But not a runner.

On July 5th, 2019, Ron’s sister, Cindy, passed unexpectedly. His family was completely caught off guard. Filled with anger and grief, Ron picked up the sport to help channel his feelings.

“I knew that running would give me the opportunity to channel my feelings in a positive outlet,” shares Ron. “I decided that I would sign up and start training for a half marathon that was being organized later in the year in Prince Edward Island.”

Just like that, Ron challenged himself to run 21.1 kilometers to help him through this heartbreaking loss.

“It was during my first training session that I came up with the idea of raising awareness and much needed financial support for the SPCA,” says Ron. “This would be in memory of my sister Cindy and all the incredible love that she had provided for shelter animals. My sister was an amazing person who had a very strong connection to animals – especially rescue dogs. In her lifetime she had adopted, from what I know, at least 5 dogs and I am sure there were many more that she helped find homes for.”

Ron reached out to the Nova Scotia SPCA with a goal to raise at least $1,000. We helped him build a fundraising page and he hit the ground running – quite literally.

“As I was training, I dropped by the animal shelter in Dartmouth from time to time to help keep me motivated,” explains Ron. “I knew this dedication to my sister was the perfect fit and it was definitely helping me with all the various emotions that I was experiencing.”

Ron is a big animal lover himself and has two very special family members at home: Lily-Grace and Jake. Their unconditional love played a big part in helping Ron cope with the grief he was experiencing. “Lily-Grace and Jake were very helpful with providing me that level of love and companionship that I needed, especially through this difficult time.”

Ron set out to raise $1,000. He surpassed it and raised $1,455 in tribute to Cindy.

Ron challenged himself to run a half marathon. He completed the race in his goal time.

And he’s not stopping now!

This year, Ron hopes to compete in the Blue Nose Marathon and fundraise for the SPCA in celebration of Cindy. He hopes others will join him and feel inspired to make a difference. “I want everyone out there to know that animals provide us with so much unconditional love and all they want in return is to feel loved,” Ron shares. “I know that my journey through grief has no time limits but the one thing I can say for certain is that having my two pups at home has sure made it more comforting. I would encourage anyone reading this to visit their local SPCA to volunteer or even provide a forever home for one of the special animals that are waiting for rescue.”

With no government funding for our shelters, funds raised will help rescue and care for animals in need. “Often times we forget the important role shelters for animals play in providing safety and love to animals that are often forgotten or abandoned, or abused in their present environments,” explains Ron. “The shelter needs all the support it can get.”

Ron’s half marathon challenge helped care for animals AND heal his heart. He will continue to run the road ahead – one step at a time – and know that he is honouring Cindy and helping himself and homeless pets in need.

 

Feeling inspired and want to join Ron? The Blue Nose Marathon weekend has been postponed to November 6-8, 2020 due to COVID-19 so you have lots of time to start training. You can sign up to race with our pack and walk or run for a cause you care about. Our team is proudly supported by Ren’s Pets so there will be goodies for you and your pet – plus, you’ll help save lives. Learn more here.

Taylor Mundy

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

The Perfect 4-Pack: Moose’s Story

June 16, 2020

By Judy Layne

John Bennet and his partner Marchell Lynk have never been shy about taking on a challenge. And so, when it came to adding another four-legged member to their family, they were ready to do whatever it took to ensure success.

They already had an adopted dog, their handsome 3-year old Staffie-cross Hank. The couple thought that it would be great for Hank to have a younger canine companion so they set about looking for a brother for him. Enter Moose, a one-and-one-half year old Pittie/Rottie mix. Moose came to the Kings SPCA when his owner could not care properly for him any longer. Physically, Moose was in good health, but emotionally, he was fragile; extremely nervous and shy around new people. Moose had been at the shelter for a month waiting for a loving home. Then his life changed.

The couple was checking out the Kings Shelter Facebook page when they spotted Moose’s photo. “When we saw Moose’s picture, it was game over,” says John. “I remember the big smile he was wearing and knew we had to meet him.” Marchell adds “Moose’s age was just right and we were already comfortable with Staffie-crosses, since both Hank and our beloved deceased dog Riley before him opened our hearts to this breed.”

John says “When we were introduced to Moose at the shelter, he was very comfortable with Marchell but it took him some time to warm up to me. It wasn’t surprising, since this poor boy’s world had been turned upside down.” The couple knew it would take patience, time and love to build Moose’s trust and confidence, so they made the commitment to visit him every day over the next two weeks. “The Kings Shelter staff were there for us every step of the way, supporting us and providing guidance,” says Marchell. “For the first few days, we went out for a walk and Moose did just fine. Eventually, it was time for Hank and Moose to meet.” John relates “The entire staff at the Kings SPCA were rooting for us. Moose and Hank hit it off and soon we were walking together as a pack. We promised Moose that if he chose us, we’d give him a loving home.”

Moose’s transition to his new home has been smooth and he has clearly bonded with his brother Hank.  The couple continues to reinforce socializing skills slowly acknowledging that every animal is different. “We walk off the beaten path so we don’t overwhelm Moose with too many people at once. He needs to feel safe,” John reports. “He is doing much better at meeting new people. We work on manners and obedience every day; Moose is very smart and learns quickly. Both of our boys enjoy car rides, going for walks and playing squeak ball together in our fenced back yard” states Marchell.

The couple has nicknamed their family ‘The 4-Pack.’  John says “It’s incredible for the 4 of us to have come together to fill a place in each other’s hearts. Hank and Moose rescued us as much as we rescued them.” What lesson does Moose’s story teach us? I asked. “Time and patience are key if you want to have a strong trusting bond with an animal, particularly one whose prior life was without the love and kindness they deserve.”

The couple is sad that stereotypes still exist for Staffie breeds. “These dogs are amazing and deserve the same chance at happiness that all dogs do” they state. “Thanks to the Kings SPCA, Moose is now a treasured family member in our 4-Pack!”

 

Sadly, since this article was written, John passed away. John was dedicated to loving, supporting and caring for homeless animals. He was a true difference-maker and animal-lover. John will be deeply missed by his loved ones and SPCA family.

 

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.

Auction for Animals

June 16, 2020

By Taylor Mundy

The Canadian Forces Snowbirds launched Operation Inspiration to share some positivity in a challenging time. They started a tour across Canada to give hope and thank Canadians for playing their role in social distancing during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Being a proud Nova Scotian, that included Master-Corporal Matt Mackenzie flying with a Nova Scotia flag.

“I wanted to inspire Nova Scotians to bond together as one through all the tragedy the province faced,” says Master-Corporal Mackenzie. After pictures of the flag went viral online, Master-Corporal Mackenzie knew he wanted to find a meaningful home for it.

The Canadian Forces Snowbirds are a small group of 22 that travel for seven months of the year together. “We essentially become a family,” explains Master-Corporal Mackenzie. It was on the flying circuit that Master-Corporal Mackenzie first met Captain Jennifer Casey. “When it came time to be on the road, she was that glue that always held us together.. To me, she was a great friend, and an outstanding professional.”

Sadly, just a few weeks into Operation Inspiration, Captain Jennifer Casey died in aircraft crash.

To honour Captain Casey, Master-Corporal Mackenzie decided to use his Nova Scotian flag to raise funds for a cause she cared about. “Since Jenn and her boyfriend, Captain Scott Boyd, snowbird #5, had two dogs together, and they’re both huge dog lovers, I knew that the Nova Scotia SPCA would be the right place to get money for. Then the auction idea became alive.”

“I believe its important to raise money and care for shelter animals because they’re most likely there for a traumatic reason or they couldn’t be cared for,” shares Master-Corporal Mackenzie. “In my opinion, animals are to be loved by us humans and taken care of. In the right environment, they’re going to take just as good care of their owners. And animals that are dealt a bad card, deserve a second chance.” We 100% agree. That’s why we proudly follow a no-kill philosophy to tackle difficult and expensive medical and cruelty cases so every pet can be safe, happy and healthy.

The buzzing and bidding for the auction started… and got bigger and bigger… raising an amazing $5,300!

And Master-Corporal Mackenzie isn’t stopping there.

He started fundraising, collecting donations, and set a goal to find a business to match the dollars raised.

“I have two dogs with my wife: Apollo and Scotia,” says Master-Corporal Mackenzie. “They always are a welcome sight to me. Leaving them is actually one of the most difficult things when it comes time to leaving home for the seven-month air show season. They helped me through a lot, especially this tragedy. I always hug them a little more tight now and spend every second I can with them.”

The feedback from the community has been an out-pour of love and Master-Corporal Mackenzie wants people to know this is all for Captain Jennifer Casey and her memory. “She would have done something similar to this for any of us, but she would have done it in a way more cooler and efficient way I’m sure,” he laughs. “One thing I can and do want to say though is I’ve never been more proud to be a Nova Scotian. This is why I brag to all my teammates and friends that we have the best people in the country.”

On behalf of all the animals at the SPCA, thank you to everyone who bidded, shared, and donated in tribute to Captain Jennifer Casey. And a special thank you to Master-Corporal Mackenzie for your leadership, kindness, and dedication. This is truly a beautiful legacy of love.

Taylor Mundy

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

Overcoming the Litterbox Blues

June 16, 2020

By Judy Layne

After a flawless record for years, your cat stops using their litterbox and begins leaving little ‘presents’ around the house – everywhere except the litterbox.  What’s the scoop?

The good news is that most litterbox issues can easily be corrected, so if you’re singing the litterbox blues, don’t despair.  Often, the problem is right before your eyes.  Some change, though not apparent to you, may have distressed your cat.  Here are some common reasons your cat may stop using their litterbox and what you can do to make things right.

  1. Keep it clean.  The top reason cats stop using the litterbox is because it’s dirty.  You wouldn’t want to use a dirty toilet and neither does your cat.  To fix the problem, simply scoop the box at least once daily and once every two weeks empty it completely, wash it with unscented dishwashing detergent and add new litter.
  2. Three (or even two) is a crowd.  Many cats don’t want to share their litterbox. Yet multi-cat homes often have only a single, over-used smelly litterbox.  It’s no surprise that a cat may opt for the bed, carpet or other unsuitable place instead.  If you have multiple cats, be sure to have 1 box per cat and locate them in different rooms. If your house is multi-story, have a box on each floor.
  3. Location, location, location.  We all want a little privacy and quiet when it comes time to ‘go’ and cats are no different.  Putting a litterbox in a hallway, noisy room or near a washer, dryer or furnace that may kick on while your cat is ‘going’ can scare them away from the litterbox.  Ensure you choose a quiet out-of-the-way spot with sight lines so your cat can see people or other pets approaching.
  4. One size does not fit all.  Cats have different preferences, just like us.  A litterbox that’s too small or too big may discourage your cat from using it.  Some cats may feel a small box is too cramped or that there’s not enough litter to bury their waste.  Others, particularly older cats or cats with arthritis, may not like high sides.  And should the box be covered? Some cats may love this enclosed ‘sanctuary’, but others may not like to feel snuck up on.  The only way to find out what your cat prefers is to try out a few different types.
  5. The right stuff.  There’s an endless of choice of litters on the market.  But no matter how attractive the product is to you, it’s your cat who will decide what works and what doesn’t.  Trying a new brand or type on impulse that looks, feels and smells different than the litter your cat is used to runs the risk of inappropriate toilet issues.  If you need to change brands, do it gradually over 2-3 weeks, like you’d do with a change in food.
  6. Enough is enough.  No matter what litter you use, make sure the box contains enough litter for digging and burying waste, about 2-3 inches. Don’t use more than 3 inches, since your cat may feel unbalanced and get litter stuck on their legs or belly.
  7. You’re stressing me out!  Cats thrive on routine and don’t like change. Sometimes, just a simple change in your home can upset your cat and cause undesirable eliminating.  A new baby, houseguests, re-arranging the furniture, a vacuum cleaner beside the litterbox, a change in feeding schedule – can all impact your cat’s sense of security.  Moving to new home or apartment can be particularly stressful and result in slip-ups. Try to keep whatever constants you can in your cat’s environment and change things gradually.  Whatever you do, never punish your cat for litterbox problems.  It’s unlikely to help the problem and may end up damaging the bond between you and your cat.
  8. Check the box for problems/visit the vet.  Make sure your cat is both urinating and defecating daily.  If you notice a strange smell, blood, excessive or minimal urine, see your vet immediately.  If your normally reliable kitty has started missing the litterbox, make an appointment with your vet asap.  Urinary tract infections, kidney stones, cystitis, infections and other medical conditions can cause your cat’s litterbox habits to go south.  The vet can identify or rule out any underlying health problems.  Once you know it’s not a health problem, you can address other possible causes.

 

With some time, patience and effort you and your cat will go from singing the litterbox blues to whistling a happy tune.

 

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.