At this point, we’ve all heard about Covid-19 more than we ever cared to, but we wanted to clear up some potential confusion about feline coronavirus or FeCV. Covid-19 and FeCV are completely different viruses. According to the Cornell Feline Health Center: Most strains of feline coronavirus are found in the gastrointestinal tract and do not cause significant disease. These are referred to as feline enteric coronavirus (FeCV). Cats infected with FeCV usually do not […]
We recently took in four dogs from a pretty unfortunate situation. They came from a nearby county in Virginia and were part of a larger group of eight dogs. Prior to meeting them, we were told that one female appeared to be very pregnant, but without knowing her history, no one had any clue when she was due. We worked quickly to line up a foster with whelping experience for the soon-to-be mother so that […]
Violet originally came to the Roanoke Valley SPCA in 2010 as a puppy, was fostered until she was old enough to be spayed and was adopted in early 2011. In September 2020, we received word from the Regional Center for Animal Care and Protection, the municipal pound for our community, that Violet had landed herself at their facility. Violet, a nearly 10 year old vibrant and friendly tan mixed breed, had a very large open […]
We will be waiving fees for cats that are 6 months or older for this weekend only. On Friday, October 23 and Saturday, October 24, 2020, adopters can donate a 14 pound or more bag of cat food or kitty litter in lieu of the normal adoption fee. “All of our cat condos are currently full,” said Denise Hayes, CEO of the Roanoke Valley SPCA. “Our hope is to find loving homes for all of […]
It’s National Veterinary Technician Week, and we’re lucky to have an extraordinary veterinary technician on our staff! Tammy never wants to be in the spotlight and she may even be a little upset that we’re featuring her in our blog, but we can’t let this week go by without thanking her. We could tell you how much we appreciate Tammy for performing all of the technical aspects of her job flawlessly. Things like conducting examinations, […]
The holiday season is still in full swing, so the dangers to pets are still present as the festivities continue through to the New Year. Holiday activities that are normal for humans, such as traveling, out-of-town visitors, etc. can cause us to overlook simple things in our lives that can be threatening to our furry friends – things such as leftovers, decorations, or even holiday plants can be a danger to our pets.
The American Veterinary Medical Association has adopted the following five basic principles for humane animal treatment. They are both simple and profound. We know too well that many animals live without the benefit of these simple freedoms, which extend beyond just food, water and shelter. Freedom from hunger and thirst – by providing ready access to fresh water & a diet to maintain full health & vigor. Freedom from discomfort – by providing an appropriate […]
How can you help your local shelter animals while they are waiting for their forever home? There are many ways that you can help the animals at the Roanoke Valley SPCA or at any shelter or rescue organization. Fun for all! First, you can volunteer to work with the animals. Get them out and interact with them. Not only do they need physical exercise, but mental stimulation is equally important. Engage their mind by teaching […]
The Roanoke Valley SPCA is one of the many nonprofit organizations participating in the 3rd annual Roanoke Valley Gives Day, scheduled for March 14th, 2018. Organized by the Foundation for the Roanoke Valley, Roanoke Valley Gives is an innovative online fundraising event that enables people who love their community to donate money in support of their favorite charity in the period of a 24-hour day. You can donate at any time as long as the donation is made […]
Just last year in 2017, the Roanoke Valley SPCA’s PET (Pets Eat Too) program provided about 4,874 pet meals to help feed the hungry companion animals of homebound seniors receiving Meals on Wheels, hospice patients, and those experiencing a financial downturn. Pet food is distributed at food pantries operated by: Bethel Baptist Church Feeding America Southwest Virginia Rescue Mission Lake Christian Ministries Botetourt County The need for donated pet food has grown dramatically over the […]
You want a new pet, but worry about how your existing pet(s) will react. It’s important to introduce your pets correctly for a well-socialized, multi-pet home. Dogs: Ensure they associate ‘good things’ with being around each other. Before bringing your dogs inside for the first time, let them sniff each other and talk in a happy tone. Take them for a walk together, stopping periodically to practice basic commands like ‘sit’ and giving them treats […]
If your home or facility is experiencing a rodent problem, don’t use toxic chemicals or traps…GO GREEN and employ a pair of felines who will work as your private Rodent Control Technicians (RCT.) Cats chosen to be barn cat buddies are community cats sitting in pounds and shelters across the region. Barn Cat Buddies are healthy, sterilized and vaccinated, and ready to get the job done! Barn Cat Buddies is a 501c 3 non-profit […]
In 2017, 701 animals spent time in foster care. Not only were these animals provided a second chance in life, but by being fostered and socialized, they were given a better chance of adjusting well to their new home, resulting in a more successful adoption. A heartfelt thank you goes out to everyone who has fostered to save and enrich the lives of these animals and their forever families. We need to increase our network […]
Most people are aware of the dangers of smoking and likely realize that their smoking affects the people around them, inhaling their second-hand smoke. However, what smokers probably don’t know is that second-hand smoke also affects pets. What is second-hand smoke? Merriam Webster defines it as tobacco smoke that is exhaled by smokers or is given off by burning tobacco and is inhaled by persons nearby. Second-hand smoke can be inhaled just as easily as […]
With temperature plummeting, pets left outside in extreme temperatures, especially without food or shelter, are at risk of hypothermia, frostbite and even death. Just a few days ago on New Year’s day, a dog was found dead after a night in freezing temperatures. If you see a pet left outside, take note of as many details as you can. Date, time, exact location, type of animal(s) involved and even photos or videos can help save […]