Author: Taylor Huestis

Pringles’ Happy Tail

August 20, 2019

By Taylor Mundy

This next kitty needs no introduction… because she’s famous!  Do you remember Pringles?  Pringles was suffering as a stray and brought into the Nova Scotia SPCA in September 2018.  She was blind, covered in flea dirt, and was so young her baby teeth were still coming in.  Pringles received medical surgery at our SPCA Dartmouth Animal Hospital to remove her eyes before things got worse.  She bounced back and quickly recovered.

The Nova Scotia SPCA has an amazing partnership with Jack 92.9.  Sponsored by Portland Street Honda, they highlight an adorable adoptable animal every week for Wet Nose Wednesday. Pringles was featured and the video went viral!  To date, there are more than 6.1 million views, 91,000 shares and 24,000 comments.  Check out the original video here!

 

Pringles was quickly scooped up by a loving family.  They gave us a heart-warming update that we couldn’t wait to share with you!  “Pringles is doing fantastic,” says Pringles’ fur-mama.  “She’s so intelligent, being blind hasn’t hampered her playfulness, or her ability to knock things off shelves like her adoptive sister Sasha.  It’s been absolutely incredible to watch her growth since October.  She has her nooks and crannies she likes to snuggle in, but she loves to curl up at your feet.  We love her so very much.  We didn’t realize our hearts could expand as they have done with this wonderful kitten.”

Because of the generous support of donors, Pringles received lifesaving support and can leave her painful past behind.  Sadly, there are always more pets like Pringles that are suffering.  As a charity with no government funding for our shelters, your support is especially needed.  You can be a hero for abandoned, orphaned and injured pets.  Make your gift today to give innocent pets, like Pringles, their happily-ever-after.

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.

Soulmates

August 20, 2019

By Christa Jensen

When Linda Cleroux had surgery to remove a brain tumour, her husband Kevin, thought the worst was over. No amount of planning could have prepared them for the devastating news they got one year later — the cancer had returned, and this time it was incurable.

“We were celebrating that Linda had beat this thing,” Kevin said. “The news was crushing.”

Between treatments, Linda’s spirits were down. Knowing how much she loved animals, Kevin thought that volunteering at the SPCA would take her mind off things so they headed over to the shelter one sunny afternoon to walk dogs.  They had been missing their dog, Rocky, who passed away earlier and figured it would brighten some of the darkness they were feeling.

That’s when a big loveable dog named Reese slobbered her way into their hearts. They were thrilled to find out that Reese had an adoption pending and would soon have a family of her own but sad at the same time, that she wouldn’t be with them.

Knowing how head over heels Linda was about Reese, Kevin couldn’t help but check back for the chance that she would return.  He checked the adoption board repeatedly until one day, to his amazement, Reese’s picture was there after her first adoption didn’t work out. Kevin knew it was meant to be so he immediately adopted Reese for Linda.

“Linda and I fell in love the moment we met. I believe fate brought us together and there is no doubt in my mind that Reese was destined to be in our lives as well.”

In the months that followed, Reese — or Reesie as she’s often called now — never left Linda’s side. Even though they were only together a short time before Linda went into the hospital, they had formed a remarkable bond. What really surprised Kevin was the way Reese was there for him too.

“My little doll, Reesie, has brought me a lot of comfort when I needed it.” Kevin said. “She got me through the toughest time in my life and I love her very much.”

Sadly, this month marks one year since Linda lost her courageous battle with cancer. In Linda’s honour, Kevin made a generous donation to the Nova Scotia SPCA so that other pets can find a forever family and benefit in the same way they have.  “Linda had great love for all animals, especially her dogs,” Kevin shared.  “She would be very happy knowing that her love is living on.”

You can honour a loved one’s legacy by making a gift to the SPCA in their memory.  You will help make a difference for abandoned, abused and injured pets and provide them with a brighter future.  Make a gift in tribute of your special animal-lover today with a gift to the SPCA.

Christa Jensen

Christa is the Director of Development for the Nova Scotia SPCA. As an animal lover, she is very passionate about animal welfare and working with philanthropists to give pets the happiness they deserve. Christa and husband Matthew, are proud parents of two children – one with paws and one without.

Happy Friendship Day

August 20, 2019

By Taylor Mundy

You’re never too small to make a difference.  Just ask eight-year-old Lily Stewart from Stellarton!

When Lily was only five years old, she created her very own holiday – Friendship Day.  Friendship Day is dedicated to helping everyone feel loved and cared for.  Being a passionate animal-lover, Lily’s Friendship Day naturally included caring for pets too.

To help spread love to local animals in need, Lily planned to sell bracelets and donate the funds raised.  Her family loaded up on craft supplies and Lily got to work making beautiful handmade bracelets.  Throughout the month of March, she sold the bracelets for $2 each.

Last year through bracelet sales and donations Lily raised an amazing $700 and was motivated to do even more.  This year, Lily tallied up her donations and proudly walked into the Pictou SPCA donating more than $1,600!  How out-of-this-world wonderful!!

Lily dropped off some of our top needed items on our SPCA shelter wish list and the funds raised so we could maximize her donations to the fullest.  The SPCA has several amazing partnerships where we can sometimes get substantial discounts on supplies.  Plus, donations can be allocated to medical care to ensure every pet is safe, happy and healthy.  On top of her super-hero support, Lily also adopted a cute kitty named Max.

Lily’s family is very proud of their little superstar for making such a positive difference for shelter pets in need.  Her step-mama, Katie Wilcox, said, “Myself, Lily’s mom, Holly, and dad, James, really only wanted to share Lily’s story in hopes that it would encourage other kids and families to help support local causes in their communities.  We are very proud of Lily, but also make it very known how much the volunteers and employees of the SPCA and other local shelters do, and she knows that you all are the real heroes.”

“We are so thankful for everyone’s generosity with Friendship Day this year,” Katie shared.  “It really shows Lily how much kindness there is in the world still.”  We totally agree!  A special thank you to Lily and your amazing family for your generosity, kindness and dedication to helping local animals in need.  You’re truly making a difference.

Lily and her family know that the SPCA does not receive any government funding for our shelters, so donations are especially needed to help save lives.  Ready to hit the ground running or not sure where to start?  Message Taylor at the SPCA as she would love to help make your fundraiser a big success.  Let your creativity run wild!  A few fun ideas to start your brainstorming are:

  • Sweat for the SPCA – Ask a yoga instructor or personal trainer to run a by-donation class to help shelter pets
  • Birthday Paw-ty – Instead of a cake, card and presents, everyone can donate to the SPCA in honour of your special day
  • Bake a Difference – Host a by-donation bake sale with delicious goodies.  In fact, we have an SPCA day dedicated to this in February 2020 called Bake Sales for Wagging Tails

No matter your age, you can support local animals by fundraising and helping thousands of sick, abandoned and abused animals that need our help every year.  Thank you, Lily 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. She is passionate about raising awareness and funds for local animals in need.

#BeyondCute

August 20, 2019

By Taylor Mundy

We know that an adorable picture of a dog or cat can tug at the heartstrings.  It doesn’t take much for those of us who love animals to want to bring those sweet critters into our families.  However, it is important to look beyond the cute photos and examine the circumstances those pets are coming from.  If you opt to adopt, not all shelters or rescues have the same approach or ethical standards.  Likewise, if you are looking to buy your pet, not all breeders or other sources adhere to standards, so it is important to ask questions and do research.

Beyond Cute is a new awareness campaign to encourage pet owners to look #BeyondCute photos to ensure their new furry family member is a puurrrrfect match.  The campaign was developed collaboratively with participants in the Nova Scotia Department of Agriculture Minister’s Forum on Animal Protection, which includes representatives from animal welfare groups, breeders, trainers and veterinarians.

One of the hot topics covered in Beyond Cute is pet transport. For many animals, animal transport is a life-saving measure; however, it also poses serious risks.  The ultimate goal is to transport animals – not diseases… so it is important when implementing a pet transport program to take proper precautions to ensure the health and safety of the animals – both those being transported and those here in our province.  Groups or individuals transporting animals into Nova Scotia should be aware of past and future medical care required and carefully consider the behaviour of each pet.  Safe transport methods and guidelines minimize risk and maximize life-saving capacity.

And that’s not all Beyond Cute covers!  The campaign encourages you to do your homework and reflect on your own situation.  Before getting a pet, think about your life and ask yourself some key questions.  Do you have the time to take care of a pet?  Can you manage the ongoing costs associated with pet ownership?  What type or breed of pet would fit best with your lifestyle?  Asking questions about veterinary care, temperament and the animal’s background will ensure that you’re getting your pet from a responsible source and is one of the best ways to protect animals from harmful situations.

“While photos of dogs or cats can easily capture our hearts, I strongly encourage people to consider the responsibilities that come along with owning a pet before bringing it home,” says Agriculture Minister Keith Colwell.  “Too often companion animals end up neglected or in a shelter because people just weren’t aware of the responsibilities that come with owning a pet.  Doing your research is the best way to prevent any surprises.”

Check out the Beyond Cute campaign today!  Look beyond the cute pictures and ask the hard questions.  Visit www.YourNextPet.ca before you buy or adopt.

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 a Dog Meet Dog World out There

August 20, 2019

By Judy Layne

Whether you’re walking your dog on the street or you’re in an off-leash dog park, there are certain important doggie etiquette “dos and don’ts” to follow as a responsible pet parent.  Here’s how to keep your dog and others safe and happy.

Pick up the poop!  No one wants to step in poop.  Some dogs like to roll in other dogs’ poop. Either way – yuck. Poop can also spread diseases.  Bring bags with you and dispose of them properly.

Respect the rules.  This will benefit you, your dog and others.  Municipal bylaws require dogs to be on-leash in public areas, unless signs say otherwise.  Choosing not to follow posted dog park rules can ruin the park for everyone else.

Rushing is not all right.  Never let your dog run up to another dog on leash.  Your dog may be friendly, but other dogs and owners don’t know that. A leashed dog can feel vulnerable around a loose dog and may defensively lash out.

Be proactive and protect your pup.  Make sure your dog’s vaccinations are up-to-date and that they’re protected from ticks, fleas, heartworm, rabies and diseases that can be spread by other dogs.

Control your canine.  Before ever contemplating a dog park, you need to ensure your dog has basic obedience training and listens to your commands.

Know when to pass up the park. If your dog hasn’t been well socialized, nix the park.  Socialization needs to happen in an environment where things can’t go south quickly.If your dog is aggressive or resource-protective, keep playtime in your backyard or a secluded area without other dogs.Don’t bring puppies to the park – they can get diseases they don’t have immunity against and can be injured by bigger dogs.If your dog isn’t fully vaccinated, don’t risk making them or other dogs sick.  Never bring an intact male or female dog in heat to the park – this spells trouble.  Don’t be part of the pet overpopulation problem – spay or neuter your dog!

Keep an eye on your dog at all times.  On the street or in the park, don’t become distracted playing with your smartphone or socializing with other humans.  It only takes a minute for an accident to happen.

Learn to read dog body language.  By learning to spot signs of aggression, you can prevent fights before they happen, both in and outside of the dog park.   If your dog or another dog bares their teeth, growls or tenses their posture, leave before any fur starts flying.

Size does matter sometimes.  Smaller dogs can easily become intimidated by large dogs running loose. If the park has a separate area for smaller dogs, bring your small dog there so they can play safely with their pooch peers. If there’s no separate area, be cautious to make sure your dog’s not at risk.

Know when it’s time to leave.  If your dog seems uncomfortable or is too nervous to relax in a dog park, take them somewhere else where they feel safe.  If the park is jam-packed with pooches, come back at non-peak times.  If your dog is bullying or being bullied, leave.  And if your dog is just plain tired, call it quits and head home.

If we all mind our doggie manners, I’m paws-itive the world will be a better place for us and for our dogs.

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.

Three Legs Won’t Slow Cookie Down

July 17, 2019

By Taylor Mundy

It hurts our hearts to remember what Cookie went through.  Along with his siblings, Cookie was shoved into a tiny cage and abandoned in a parked vehicle.  Cookie and his brothers and sisters didn’t have any food or water for four days.  Cold and alone, every day that went past they struggled just to get enough air.

Our SPCA Enforcement Officers received a call of an after-hours emergency and they sprang into action.  One by one, our officers scooped the pups up and hugged them.  Suddenly, Cookie’s previous owner drove up in another vehicle screaming.  We stood our ground and ordered her to get out of the van.  She didn’t… Instead, she slammed down on the accelerator and ran over one of our officers and drove away.

To protect Cookie and his siblings from any more danger, we brought them to our SPCA shelter and gave them yummy food, fresh water, comfy beds and unlimited treats.  They were so thirsty and covered in filth.  Our SPCA Enforcement Officers stayed out in the cold all night to make sure she was caught.

We knew right away there was something wrong with Cookie’s paw.  His legs couldn’t carry him.  His right paw was in bad shape and had to be medically removed at our SPCA Animal Hospital before things got worse.

Even though Cookie only has three legs, he hasn’t slowed down.  After all, there are so many exciting things to see and sniff!

Because of generous animal-lovers like you, Cookie was given a second-chance.  He left his past behind and found a family who truly loves him.  Cookie’s fur-mama thought his new name was fitting because he is a sweet and tough cookie.  She can’t resist his kisses!

It’s easy to see Cookie’s scars… but thousands of other furry friends have ones you can’t see.  From cruelty to abandonment – and everything else in between – every pet at the Nova Scotia SPCA has a story.  You can put their painful past behind them and give them a happy, healthy future.

Cookie’s previous owner was charged by the Nova Scotia SPCA under the Criminal Code of Canada for the abuse of eight animals and death of one dog.  She pled guilty and is still awaiting sentencing.  Although we spring into action instantly to rescue and provide life-saving treatment, the work to protect animals continues years later.  Sign up as a monthly donor today to rescue pets and fight for justice.

Thank you for your compassionate support!

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.