At the Roanoke Valley SPCA, we believe that every animal deserves not only physical care, but also the emotional support they need to feel safe, confident, and ready for life in a loving home. That’s why our partnership with the College of Animal and Life Sciences at Virginia Tech is so meaningful. Through this collaboration, we are fortunate to have Megan Arant, our Behavior Support Services Director, working hands-on to help pets thrive.
Megan plays a crucial role in helping the animals in our care become their best selves. For some pets, simply being in a shelter environment can feel overwhelming. New sights, unfamiliar smells, strange noises – these can trigger anxiety, reactivity, or stress-related behaviors. Without skilled support, those animals could be misunderstood or overlooked by adopters.
Megan works with these pets individually, identifying the root of their stress and tailoring behavior plans to meet their needs. She:
- Helps shy animals build confidence
- Teaches excitable pets how to focus and engage
- Reduces behaviors triggered by fear or frustration
- Creates enrichment plans that keep pets mentally and emotionally healthy
The result? Pets are happier, easier to adopt, and spend less time in the shelter.
Finding the right match is only the beginning. Just like people adjusting to a big life change, pets sometimes need guidance when settling into a new home. That’s where Megan continues to make a powerful impact.
Megan supports adopters who may be struggling with early challenges – from leash manners to crate training, to introductions with other pets in the home. With patience and expertise, she helps families understand what their pets are communicating and teaches positive solutions that build trust and confidence.
These services make a tremendous difference by:
- Preventing unwanted behaviors from escalating
- Helping adopters feel supported and empowered
- Reducing returns to the shelter
- Helping families and pets stay together
When animals and adopters succeed, the entire community benefits.
Behavioral needs are just as important as physical ones. Thanks to Megan – and our strong partnership with Virginia Tech – we are able to care for the “whole animal,” ensuring that pets not only leave our shelter healthy, but also prepared to bond, learn, and thrive in their new homes.
Together, we’re building happier adoptions, healthier pets, and brighter futures. You can help by making a donation today.