Author: Taylor Huestis

Two Peas in a Pod

January 11, 2019

By Judy Layne

Pets have always been a big part of our life and an important part of our family. Each one has filled our home with happiness and laughter.  Each one has had a unique endearing personality and their own set of cute crazy antics.   It’s hard to pick just one of our funny fur-babies to highlight, so I decided to pick two.  Both have since gone to the Rainbow Bridge but thinking about them always makes us smile.

We adopted our dog Murphy when he was two years old.  We had just adopted Tarko, a 13 year old doggo the week before.  We hoped the two ‘boys’ would be good company for each other.  But Tarko must have been the only dog in his previous home, and as a senior gentleman, wasn’t crazy about this newcomer jumping all over him hoping to play. Tarko was content to lead a laid-back life watching tv together and getting massages.  That left us needing a pal for Murphy.  So two months later, we adopted Meggie.

Murph and Meg bonded with each other immediately.  And where you’d find one, you’d always find the other. Here are just two of my favorite funny memories.

Mealtime

Their rituals were hilarious. Before taking a single bite, they always checked out what was in the other’s bowl then ran back to their own bowl.  Favorite foods were eccentric. Murph loved rice of all things!  Given the choice of a T-bone steak or rice, he’d choose rice every time.  Meg thought that since her brother loved rice, it must be good.  But when she tried it, she looked at him like he was crazy and spit it out.  Her favorite food became apparent one day when we returned from grocery shopping.  We noticed that a package of pork chops had been ripped open and one of the chops was missing.  It didn’t take long to find the culprit, chowing down on the missing chop, earning Meg the title ‘the Princess of Pork’.

Car Rides

With 3 canines in the car, there wasn’t room for much else.  On trips to the lake, Tarko and Meg would lie quietly in the back seat, but Murph always had to help navigate.  He’d stand on my lap for the first half hour, carefully watching to make sure dad was going the right way. Only then would he join his siblings in back.  He had the uncanny ability to detect a McDonalds restaurant several miles away.  He knew that when we hit the drive-through, we’d order a plain patty specially for ‘the gang’.  Staff at the drive-through would laugh at the sight of Murph and Meg jostling for position at the window, while Tarko knew we’d ‘deliver’ to the back seat.  For her part, Meg loved truck stops and was fascinated by the semis.  She loved it when drivers would come over to pat the head of their canine admirer.

It’s important for us to celebrate the joy our pets bring us and to share funny stories about them.  We’d love to hear your funny pet story.

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.

Please Share Your Christmas Spirit with Homeless Pets

December 19, 2018

By Judy Layne

It’s easy to get lost in the hustle and bustle of the holiday season.  There’s a lot to love about this time of year – Santa, shopping, lights, wrapping presents. But have we become too focused on the ‘gimme’ elements of the holiday? Maybe it’s time to rethink the point of Christmas.

Thomas Monson said that “Christmas is the spirit of giving without a thought of getting.  It is happiness because we see joy in others.  It is forgetting self and finding time for others.”

In this spirit, I hope the holiday season will inspire us to reflect on how full and rich our lives are, how many of our needs are met, and how much love and happiness family and friends bring to our lives.  I hope that those of us who have pets will reflect on the joy they give us and include them in this portrait of thanks. 

As we consider how lucky we are this Christmas, I also hope we can think about opening our hearts to the thousands of wonderful animals that have no home or loving family to call their own.  They wait patiently in shelters and rescues hoping for that moment when someone will look into their eyes and see how special they are.  They are there through no fault of their own.  Some were abandoned, left out in the cold, or lived life at the end of a chain. Some were neglected, not wanted enough, or surrendered for just getting old.  Some did have loving guardians, but their guardians were no longer able to care for them, having moved to a nursing home or passing away. All need our help.

I recently met ten-year old Lucas at the NS SPCA Dartmouth Shelter.  He and his brother brought in a huge basket of food and toys for the animals.  Lucas told me that since he turned seven, he has asked Santa and his family to make donations to the SPCA instead of giving him gifts.  “I just love animals a lot” Lucas said.  “People need stuff but animals need help too.”

Lucas’ kind giving spirit and selflessness set an example for all of us.  He knows that Christmas is less about getting gifts and more about giving back.  If you want to give back this Christmas, please consider helping homeless pets.  Here are some ideas.

  • Ask friends and family to make donations to the NS SPCA or favorite rescue instead of presents.
  • Honor a loved one or beloved pet that has passed away with a donation to homeless animals in their memory.
  • Donate much-needed items for the animals.  View the SPCA’s Wish List  for ideas.
  • Give the gift of your time – volunteer at your local shelter or rescue.  The support and dedication of volunteers are the lifeblood of animal rescue.
  • Foster a homeless pet. You’ll be helping two animals – the one you foster and another who will get a place in the shelter.

Please share your holiday spirit with homeless pets.  They’ll be forever grateful.

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.

Keep your Pet Warm and Safe this Winter

December 11, 2018

By Judy Layne

Winter poses risks to our furry family members. Here’s how to ensure your pet is warm and safe this winter.

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 no guarantee against winter chill. If their fur gets wet, it loses its insulating ability. If they have short fur, protection is minimal at best.

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 us, 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.

Know your pet’s limits. Some pets (short-coated, short-legged, seniors) are more susceptible to cold, so limit the time they’re outside. Consider a coat and booties to keep them warm. Pay attention to your pet’s behavior – if they shiver, whine or raise their paws, bring them inside asap.

Beware hypothermia and frostbite. Know the signs of hypothermia: shivering, weakness, shallow breathing. Watch for signs of frostbite on nose, ears, tail and paws:  pale grey skin that turns red/puffy or shrivels, pain when touched. If you suspect either condition, wrap your pet in a warm blanket and call your vet asap.

Pay attention to paws.  Trim the fur that grows between your dog’s pads to prevent painful ice build-up.  Your pet’s feet and belly can pick up toxic chemicals including salt, antifreeze and windshield de-icers, so wipe their paws and belly 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.

Adjust your pet’s exercise routine.  On cold days, take short walks only.  Walking in wooded areas can protect your pet from harsh winds. Never let your dog off-leash in a storm and ensure they have current ID should you become separated.  If it’s too cold outside, give your pet an indoor workout with interactive toys, food puzzles, tug-of-war or fetch.

Keep your pet cozy.  Ensure your pet has a warm bed to sleep in, raised off the cold floor and away from drafts.

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 online.

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.

Worth the Wait

November 30, 2018

By Judy Layne

It’s been said that good things come to those who wait.  There’s a special kitty who knows this is true.  Her story began in July when she was found abandoned in a carrier on the doorstep of the NS SPCA Dartmouth Shelter.  No note.  No history.  And no name.  

The Shelter staff named her Sunflower.  Approximately 8 years old, Sunflower was understandably frightened and shy.  She had several ailments including an upper respiratory infection, a cyst and cat acne. She had also been overfed by her previous owner and was a curvy girl.

After receiving needed medical treatment, Sunflower recovered fully with the help of Shelter staff and volunteers.  Over the next three months, Sunflower watched as people passed her by to adopt other cats.  She became quiet, withdrawn and seemed so sad. All she could do was wish for a special family who would look into her eyes and see the sweet loving soul inside.  

Finally, in October, Sunflower’s wish came true.  Jennifer Wilcox and her partner Josh Boyter visited the Shelter looking to add a new member to their four-legged family.  “It was a busy Saturday at the Shelter” says Jen.  “Sunflower was silent and introverted, likely overwhelmed from the activity happening all around her.  When we stopped to greet her though, she looked up at us without skipping a beat.  We knew that there was a personality in this kitty just waiting to come out and we decided to take her home.”  

Just as an actual sunflower needs the warmth of the sun to grow and thrive, so Sunflower needed the warmth of a loving family for her personality to blossom.  Jen says “Sunflower adjusted immediately to her new home.  It’s like she’s owned the place her entire life.  She has already called dibs on the best seat in the house, in front of the fireplace.”  

The couple’s two other kitties – Bailey and Chester – were curious about the newcomer.  “One morning  shortly after arriving, Sunflower was asleep in her cuddle cup when we spotted the two of them peering down from the loft to check out their new sister”. Bailey and Sunflower now tackle each other with ‘drive-by’ kisses. And Chester now shares a place with his new sister sleeping beside their mom.

Since being adopted, Sunflower has blossomed into a chatterbox and is always seeking out the human residents for cuddles.  “She is very affectionate and loves stroking your face with her paws,” says Jen. “She enjoys running at top speed through the house, chasing her dingle balls.  Sunflower has become a playful active cat and is beginning to lose weight through exercising.  Her adoptive parents feed her the correct diet and conscientiously monitor her food intake.  

The couple says that Sunflower has enriched their family. They encourage people not to pass up shy, overweight or older pets when adopting.  “In a loving forever home, their personalities, funny quirks and lovable antics can bloom, just as Sunflower 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.

Top 3 Reasons To Shop Our SPCA Thrift Stores

November 21, 2018

By Courtney Barber

It’s time to talk about the ‘C’ word… not CATS – CHRISTMAS!! 

November is nearly over and there are only so many shopping days left before Santa comes to town. Why break the bank this holiday season shopping at big box stores, when you can shop local AND save companion animals, at the same time. 

Here are the top 3 reasons you should shop at your local SPCA thrift store this holiday season and save some bucks and pups! 

1. NEW AND GENTLY USED ITEMS DONATED DAILY

The Nova Scotia thrift stores receive hundreds of new items daily. Many items are brand new, in the box and several that have been gently used. You don’t have to wait until Black Friday to snag a deal at our stores. Stop in and see what we have in store! 

Our volunteers take special care to ensure any new items with tags or in boxes remain in tacked so that you can save like a boss and shock your secret Santa with a brand-new gift at a fraction of the price. With our wide selection of items, you can walk away with anything from a brand-new designer dress or a coffee maker!

 

2. SHOP LOCAL, SUPPORT LOCAL

One of the best parts about shopping at a one of the Nova Scotia SPCA thrift stores, is that you are supporting a local business. It is more important than ever that us Nova Scotian’s stick together to help local small businesses and support one another, especially around the holiday season. There are so many wonderful little shops around town, so you can feel good about supporting a good cause or a family by purchasing items you need! 

Did you know 100% of the proceeds from our thrift stores directly support shelter animals? THAT’S RIGHT! Our stores are also primarily volunteer run and TAX FREE!

3. COMPETITIVE PRICING

Last but not least, let’s be honest with one another – Christmas is a stressful time of year and it can be a pricey one too! We have kids, pets, family and friends to shop for and that can add up quick and we haven’t even talked about Christmas dinner and holiday parties…

There is no denying that our network of SPCA thrift stores have your back when it comes to saving this holiday season with the lowest prices in town. We aim to stock our shelves with the best stuff, at the best price and with the generosity of our community, we have been able to continue to do just that! 

Think about it this way, when you shop at any of our SPCA thrift stores this holiday season your $30 purchase helps provide a kitten with vaccines and life-saving medicine. 

So, come in today, snag some deals and feel good knowing that your purchase helps to save the life of a companion animal in your community. Check out our complete listing of our thrift stores and hours of operation.

Courtney Barber

Courtney is the Director of Marketing & Graphic Design for the Nova Scotia SPCA.

Remaining Days Filled with Love

November 16, 2018

By Judy Layne

To many people, the term ‘palliative care’ is associated with dying. But the Nova Scotia SPCA’s Palliative Care Program is about living. It’s about ensuring that senior pets and those with compromised health get to live out the rest of their days in a foster home filled with love, caring, comfort and happiness.

Since the program began in 2009, over 40 animals have been placed with loving foster families. Some were surrendered by people who could no longer care for them properly due to the animal’s advanced age or medical conditions. Others entered the SPCA’s care through cruelty investigations. In many cases, animals didn’t receive essential veterinary care and years of neglect took an irreversible toll on their health.

Sandra Flemming, SPCA Provincial Director of Animal Care, encourages people to open their heart and home to a palliative animal in need. “I tell prospective foster families that all they have to do is provide the love. The SPCA covers all other costs including food, medical costs and when the time comes, euthanasia.” With hospitals on-site at three SPCA shelters, required veterinary care can be provided free while the animal lives in a long-term loving foster setting.

Before

Each of the precious souls in the Palliative Care program has a story to tell and sometimes, that story is amazing. Take Buster. The first ten years of Buster’s life were not filled with the care and love he deserved. He was found stray and in poor shape when he arrived at the SPCA shelter – vision loss, hearing loss, a sore bloated belly, severely matted. Initially, staff worried that Buster’s spirit was broken.  He rarely interacted with people and seemed so sad.  Over time he began to trust people. After a diagnosis of Cushings Disease, he was placed in the Palliative Care Program. Then, Buster’s life changed.

Stepheny Hunter and her partner Peter Sarty were looking to adopt a small older dog. When they spotted Buster on the SPCA’s Facebook page, they knew they had to meet him. “We took him for a walk, saw how sweetly he interacted with other animals and kids, and we jumped at the chance to foster him”, says Hunter. “At the shelter, we watched Buster go from a sad, tired old dog to a joyful puppy as he dragged a huge box of treats into the middle of the room. We’ve seen so many more moments like that since he’s been with us.”

After

Buster’s transformation has been remarkable. His ‘after’ photo says it all. “He’s now happy, full of life and love. He’s travelled to the U.S. and even had a starring role in a play,” relates Hunter. Buster and his foster mom stop by the SPCA Dartmouth Hospital for frequent check-ups to make sure he continues to thrive.
Hunter says “the Palliative Care Program is perfect for us as lower income young adults who can’t always afford the medical expenses that come along with having a pet. If you’re thinking of getting a pet, I’d highly recommend this amazing program. It gives animals in need a second chance to have a loving family and we’re so grateful the program brought Buster into our life!”

Learn more about this life-changing program and how you can help.

UPDATE: Sadly, since this article was written, Buster passed on November 8th in the caring arms of his foster parents, knowing that he was loved and that he mattered.

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.