Author: Taylor Huestis

Sweets & Shelter Pets

January 9, 2020

By Taylor Mundy

It is the sweetest time of the year!  Bake Sales for Wagging Tails is a local fundraiser for the Nova Scotia SPCA, raising critical funds to support shelter pets.

The concept is super simple – register online for free, host a bake-sale and donate the raised funds to help furry friends in need.  If you’re not a baker or sweets aren’t your thing, that’s totally okay!  You can host any type of pawty in support of the SPCA.  Pizza days, movie nights, or even casual days at work can be in celebration of Bake Sales for Wagging Tails.  The pawsibilities are endless!  Whatever is a treat for you is a treat for them.

The top fundraiser or team is crowned with naming their local SPCA’s next litter of adorable kittens!  We will send you pictures and you can visit once they’re ready for adoption.  We do ask that you pick a few names in advance so we have them available for when the kittens come in.  This way, we are not waiting to name these cuties and they can quickly be adopted into fuever homes.

Bake Sales for Wagging Tails is officially on Friday, February 21st, 2020 but you can celebrate whenever in January or February that works for you.  Your pawty can last one day or even the full month!! The quicker you submit your funds, the quicker more animals in need can be helped.  The final date to submit donations online and in-person for prize eligibility is on March 15th, 2020.  After that, we will be choosing the top fundraiser/fundraising team to name the next litter of adorable kitties!

Need some more inspiration?  Check out our winners from last year: Lindsay Construction

The kind staff at Lindsay Construction decided to do multiple fundraisers and raise money throughout the entire month of February.  This included an all-you-can-eat lunch, gift-basket raffle, 50/50, and a by-donation bake sale.  Altogether, Lindsay Construction was able to raise $2,000 for the animals in our care!  Lindsay Construction had SO much fun kitten naming and landed on these five names that were purrrrfect for the kitties: Mannie, Chief, Dozer, Tonka and Ginny.

Being an Atlantic Canadian company, Lindsay Construction understands how important our work is to animals and the community at large.  “Given our staff’s passion for animals, we see a great opportunity to assist with the SPCA fundraising campaign alongside finding placements for their current residents,” says Cory Bell, President at Lindsay Construction.  “With such a significant amount of SPCA funding being provided by the community, in addition to having a location here in Burnside, we feel well poised to lend our support.”

The Nova Scotia SPCA does not receive any government funding to support our shelters across the province, so community support is essential to our future.  Your support will truly be saving lives.  Sign-up for free today HERE and we’ll send you a Pawty Animal Host Kit to help you get started.  Thank you for baking a difference!

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.

Living Her Best Life: Lola’s Story

January 9, 2020

By Judy Layne

Each of the precious souls who cross the Nova Scotia SPCA’s doorstep has a story to tell.  Often that story has a sad beginning; just as often there’s a happy ending.  Take sweet Lola.

A beautiful Bullmastiff, the first seven years of Lola’s life were unfortunately not filled with the medical care that she needed.  Recognizing that he could not care adequately for her, Lola’s owner made the decision to surrender her to the SPCA.  We are grateful that he made this decision because it changed Lola’s life; we only wish he made it sooner so the SPCA could help.  The Nova Scotia SPCA accepts animals into its care regardless of their age or health.  You simply have to call and arrange an appointment so the shelter can learn about what is the most suitable type of home for your pet.  The appointment also allows the shelter to prepare a cozy space for your pet to make the transition as smooth as possible.  Unexpected life situations happen and the SPCA strives to be approachable, non-judgemental and understanding.
Lola was in poor shape when she arrived at the Cape Breton Shelter.  She desperately needed dental work and was quite arthritic.  She had extreme fur loss, her skin was inflamed, and she was very thin.  After special baths at the shelter, staff would dress Lola in cozy pajamas to keep her warm.  She received needed medical care at the shelter’s Animal Hospital – teeth were extracted, a lip growth was removed, and she was put on arthritis medication that she must take once a day for life.  She was placed in the Nova Scotia SPCA’s Palliative Care Program.  Then Lola’s life changed.

Debbie and her partner Dwayne were looking to adopt a dog.  Debbie says “I saw Lola’s sweet face on the SPCA website, and I just knew she was mine.  It was definitely love at first sight.  Her eyes truly touched me.  We went to the shelter, met with her and took her to her forever home the next day.”

Debbie and Dwayne had never fostered an animal before, but they were ready and willing to open their hearts and home to a palliative pet in need.  Lola adjusted quickly to her new home.  Debbie relates “In less than a week, it was like she was destined to be with us.”   Lola has blossomed so much with her new family.  “Dwayne is definitely the apple of Lola’s eye” says Debbie.  “Talk about a father-daughter bond.  It’s amazing to see how close the two have become in such a short time.  And when dad’s not around, mom is a good second best!”

 

Lola’s favorite activities include playing fetch, tug-of-war and laying on the couch between mom and dad.  “Timmy’s runs are also popular – drive-through staff always give Lola a Timbit and are amazed at how gentle she is taking it,” says Debbie.  “Lola has brought such laughter to our lives. When dad leaves for work, she runs to the window and looks at him as if to say ‘Hey, are you leaving without me?  I didn’t authorize that!’”

“We understand that Lola may not be with us for a long time, but we don’t think like that.  She’s so full of life now; we live in the moment. Eventually, she will let us know when it’s her time to go, but for now, we appreciate the unconditional love, laughs and goofiness she shares with us.  We are humbled to give her a second chance at happiness in a loving home,” says the couple.

Lola’s story underscores some important things.

  • Animal surrender should never be judged. Lola now has a wonderful life and her medical needs are well taken care of.  Please contact the SPCA if you find you have to surrender your pet.
  • The Nova Scotia SPCA proudly follows no-kill principles.  Even though it is expensive to continue to care for Lola, she has so much zest for life and the SPCA never euthanizes for space or cost.  On average, healthy and friendly pets are adopted in less than two weeks!
  • The Nova Scotia SPCA does not receive any government funding for its shelters.  Your generous support gives deserving animals like Lola a chance to live their best life.  Donate today!
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.

New Year New Opportunities to Help Animals in Need

January 9, 2020

By Taylor Mundy

It’s 2020!  New Year’s resolutions usually center around wellness, positivity and making healthy promises.  So why not start the year off by making a commitment to yourself and local animals in need?!  Kick-off 2020 on the right paw and make your New Year’s resolutions to help SPCA furry friends!  We’ve compiled a list of 5 different ways to get involved to help you get started.

#1 – BECOME A MONTHLY DONOR

Becoming a monthly donor is a wonderful way to help!  Where we do not receive any government funding to care for our SPCA shelter pets, community support is critical to our future.  Your monthly gift will provide the means to tackle medical and cruelty cases to ensure every animal is safe, happy and healthy.

Monthly donors allow the Nova Scotia SPCA to plan ahead and invest in better long-term solutions to help animals in need.  It’s super simple to sign-up and you’ll receive a charitable tax receipt as an added bonus.  What are you waiting for?!  Please pledge to become a monthly donor and choose “Recurring Gift.”

#2 – HOST A FUNDRAISER 

You can help SPCA furry friends by hosting a fundraiser and donating the proceeds!  We can support you by giving you SPCA SWAG (brochures, donation jars etc) and promoting the fundraiser on social media.  E-mail our friendly fundraising team to find out more!  Want a few ideas to get you started?

  • Charity Birthdays – Instead of buying a cake and a card, everyone can chip in some money to be donated in honour of the birthday!
  • Sweat for the SPCA – If your office has a gym/open space, ask a yoga instructor or personal trainer to run a karma class for charity.
  • Casual days – Ask participants to donate $2 for Friday casual days.  Collect the change and make a donation to the Nova Scotia SPCA!
  • Bake Sale – Host a by-donation bake sale with delicious goodies.  In fact, we have an SPCA day dedicated to this on February 21st called Bake Sales for Wagging Tails!

#3 – PARTICIPATE IN A DONATION DRIVE

Rally your friends, family members and co-workers to help fill the SPCA Wish List!  The supplies on this list are the most used items at our shelters across the province.  With over 6,000 animals coming through the Nova Scotia SPCA each year, you can imagine how much food, litter, toys and treats we go through!  Check out our top-needed items.

P.S. Did you know that you can also donate gently used clothing and household items to any of our 4 SPCA Thrift Stores across the province?  All of the money raised goes straight back to helping our shelter pets!

#4 – VOLUNTEER & FOSTER

Volunteering is a proven de-stressor that enhances your lifestyle and emotional well-being.  When you volunteer with the Nova Scotia SPCA you can help change your life and give shelter pets a second chance.  If you’re looking to get active, you may as well get active walking dogs with lots of slobbery kisses!!  Check out our online volunteer application.

Fostering SPCA furry friends is so rewarding and a great way to get involved.  We provide you with the litter, food, toys and support and they will pay rent in cuddles.  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.  Interested in learning more?  Check out our foster application form.

#5 – ADOPT A FOUR-LEGGED-FRIEND

Along with their cuteness and companionship, pets have emotional, social, physical and mental benefits.  If you’re prepared for the long-term commitment, consider dropping by your local SPCA Animal Shelter or viewing our adorable adoptables online to find your new bestie. Your 2020 will be filled with wet noses, wagging tails and unconditional love!  After all, pets are more than great friends… they become family.

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.

It’s Furrreezing Out There!

January 9, 2020

By Judy Layne

Winter poses risks to our furry family members and they rely on us for their well-being. We need to think about what we can do to ensure our pets are warm and safe in cold weather.  Check out these tips.

Fur isn’t flawless. Many people think that because pets have fur coats, they’re ‘fine’ when left outside in the cold.  Not true! In biting cold/wind, your pet’s fur coat is not enough for our ruthless Canadian winters. If their fur gets wet, it loses its insulating ability. If they have short fur, protection is minimal at best.

Get that winter swag.  There’s a huge selection of adorable but extremely functional cold-weather gear for dogs and other animals.  Coats or sweaters help keep them snug when the wind hits; boots protect their sensitive paws from painful ice and salt on the ground.

Pay attention to paws.  Trim the fur that grows between your dog’s pads to prevent painful ice build-up.  Your pet’s feet can pick up toxic chemicals including salt, antifreeze and windshield de-icers, so wipe their paws after being outside. These chemicals can burn their skin and are deadly if swallowed even in small amounts.  If you think your pet has ingested any of these substances, call your vet asap.

Inside is best.  Limit your pet’s time outside as much as possible on days below freezing.  This is especially important for short-coated, short-legged and senior pets, puppies and cats.  When it’s time for a walk, cut walk times in half or even shorter. If your pet shivers, whines or raises their paws, bring them inside asap.  If it’s too cold to go out, give your pet an indoor workout with interactive toys, food puzzles, tug-of-war or fetch.

If it’s too cold for you, it’s too cold for your pet!  Stand at the door without your coat.  If it’s too cold for you, keep your pet inside. Like people, pets can get frostbite and hypothermia.  All pets, even those who live mainly outdoors, should be kept indoors in below-freezing weather or strong wind chill.

Let it grow.  Think about skipping a few grooming sessions when the weather gets cold.  Your pet will appreciate a longer, thicker coat.  When bathing your pet, use warm (not hot) water and always make sure they’re completely dry afterward.

Keep ‘em snug!  Ensure your pet has a warm bed to sleep in, raised off the cold floor and away from drafts. Cozy blankets are a pet’s best friend.

Speak up for pets in distress.  Nova Scotia’s Animal Protection Act contains penalties for failing to protect an animal from injurious cold.  If you suspect or witness an animal suffering in the cold, please call the SPCA confidentially 1-888-703-7722 or file a confidential online complaint here.

Please show your pets you love them by caring for them responsibly this winter.

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.

From Abandoned to Adored – Gumdrop’s Story

December 18, 2019

By Judy Layne

We love sharing stories with a happy ending.  And while this story is sure to warm your heart, it began on a bitterly cold morning on November 23rd last year.

Ryan, a staff member at the Nova Scotia SPCA Yarmouth Shelter arrived to work that day and was unsettled and saddened to find a box on the doorstep.  The temperature was a piercing minus 10 degrees.  It had snowed the night before and there was an inch of snow on top of the box.  There were no visible footsteps or tire tracks so the box had clearly been there for some time.  Ryan says “I approached the box with a sense of dread.  When I opened it my heart sank. There were four helpless kittens huddled inside.”  

The kittens were only 2 to 3 weeks old.  Kittens orphaned this young cannot regulate their own body temperature, so they were lucky to still be alive.  The kittens were clearly distressed and were struggling to survive.  Staff rushed them into the shelter where they were examined by the SPCA veterinary team and received the immediate medical care they desperately needed.  The kittens were placed in incubators to keep them warm and were bottle-fed around-the-clock by a care team of dedicated staff and volunteers.

After they had gained strength and were medically cleared, the next step in the kittens’ journey was to stay with a foster family for several weeks, where they received lots of care, love, attention and the socialization they need to ensure success in a fur-ever home.

Once they were healthy and old enough, the kittens were put up for adoption.  Like all SPCA adoptable animals, the kittens were spayed and neutered so they will not reproduce babies that could potentially suffer as they did.  It didn’t take long for these cuties to melt hearts and be scooped by loving families.

One of the four kittens was named Gumdrop and she’s as sweet as her name.  Like all our shelter pets, we are thrilled to hear how they are doing in their new homes and Gumdrop is no exception.

Malorie, Gumdrop’s fur-mama, told us she quickly fell head-over-heels for Gumdrop as soon as she saw her photo on the Yarmouth Shelter’s adoption page.  “I just knew I had to come and get her and I’m so glad that I did,” says Malorie.

Malorie relates “Everyone that meets her just falls in love with the big personality that she has, probably due to how spoiled she is!  She’s a little ball of energy who keeps us on our toes and shaking our heads at all the funny things that she does.  We are so happy that she’s part of our family and so thankful for all the hard work that you do.”

Gumdrop – Now!

As for Ryan, he says “These kittens were very special to me because they embody the reason why I do what I do – giving them a second chance to find loving homes.  Being able to turn such a heart-wrenching experience into four success stories is what makes me proud to work for the Nova Scotia SPCA.”

While there is a happy ending to the story of Gumdrop and her littermates, their tale could easily have ended in senseless and avoidable tragedy. There is never an excuse or a need to abandon helpless animals.  The Nova Scotia SPCA never judges and doesn’t need an explanation if you can no longer look after a pet. You simply have to take them to one of the SPCA shelters where they can be properly surrendered, no questions asked.  Please help us share this important message.

Caring for kittens always brings puts additional pressure on the SPCA’s already limited resources. It’s thanks to your generous support and donations that Gumdrop and her littermates were rescued, received needed medical attention and rehomed.  But they are just four of more than 6,000 animals that the SPCA will help this year.  You can help other innocent pets in need, like Gumdrop, receive their happily-ever-after.  Please donate today!

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.

Christmas may be a Perfect Time to get a Pet

December 18, 2019

By Judy Layne

Christmas holidays can potentially be a great time to adopt a pet.  Surprised?  Animal welfare experts now agree that there is no bad time of year to adopt a pet, so long as it’s done the right way.

It was a long-held belief by many in the animal world that shelters should not allow adoptions during the Christmas holidays.  The overarching fear was that pets adopted or given as gifts during the Christmas holidays were at higher risk of being returned. As it turns out, this fear is unfounded.  There is no evidence to support the myth that pets adopted or given as Christmas gifts are more likely to be rejected or returned. In fact, the opposite is true.

In 2013, The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) conducted a study whose results bust the myth about giving pets as gifts, allowing more animals to be placed in loving homes in the process. They found that:

  • 96% of people who received their pet as a gift said the way they got their pet either increased or had no impact on their love or attachment
  • 86% of those pets remained with the family until the pets passed away – the same rate as pets obtained at other times of the year or in other ways.  If you’d like to see the study itself, check out this link.

Need more convincing?  A different study identified 71 reasons given for surrendering a pet. ‘Unwanted gift’ was listed as a reason for only 0.3% of dogs and 0.4% of cats, compared with ‘No time for pet’ as a reason 10% of dogs were surrendered and ‘allergies in the family’ as a reason 18% of cats were given up.

These study results are borne out by the Nova Scotia SPCA’s experience.  “Many families who adopted pets during the holidays send the SPCA happy updates about their new pets, thanking the SPCA for the best gift ever,” says Heather Woodin, Director of Programs and Administration at the Nova Scotia SPCA. “Further, there is no increase in the number of these pets coming back into our care.”

Experts caution however, that every re-homing must be considered on a case-by-case basis.  While the holiday season might not be the right time for some of us to get a new pet, it can actually be the perfect time for others. “The holidays may just be a great time to get to know a new pet in your home. If it’s the right time for you and your family we’re happy to make it happen” says Heather.

If you’re thinking of adopting during the holidays, there are some critical questions to answer first.

  • Interest: Has your family expressed sustained interest in owning a pet?
  • Cost: Is your family financially able and willing to pay for food, supplies, veterinary care, and other supplies/services over the pet’s lifetime?
  • Knowledge:  Does your family have the know-how to care for a pet responsibly?
  • Time: Does your family have time for daily exercise, interaction, and play? How often will someone be home with the pet?
  • Space: What kind of environment will the pet live in? Does the building or residence have any restrictions on pets?
  • Compatibility: What kind of pet would best fit your family’s lifestyle?
  • Health: Does anyone in the family have allergies or other conditions that would conflict with caring for the pet?
  • Other Pets: Will the new pet get along with other pets in the household?
  • Holiday Plans:  Will your family have an extended quiet Christmas holiday so they can focus on the new pet and ease the pet’s adjustment to a new home?

If you answered ‘yes’ to the above questions, this could potentially the perfect time to add a new furry family member.

I hope you’ll consider adopting or giving a deserving pet a forever home this holiday season.  The love they share with us is the greatest gift of all.

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.