MANASSAS, Va. – A small plane carrying 27 rescued animals touched down at the APP Jet Center in Manassas on Wednesday afternoon, marking another mission by Pilots To The Rescue.

Onboard were 15 cats and 12 dogs transported from overcrowded shelters in Birmingham, Alabama. The flight was made possible by the BISSELL Pet Foundation and volunteers like pilot Paul Mamauag and his co-pilot Mackenzie.

“A lot of these pets need rescue because unfortunately in the southern states that we have, it gets very overcrowded, especially during storms like we’ve seen in Texas and Florida,” said Mamauag. “Pets just become displaced or lost and they end up in overcrowded shelters, which unfortunately end up to euthanization.”

“Our main mission is to help rescue them from those states and move them up north to shelters that are a lot less crowded and don’t have euthanization,” he added.

The animals will be cared for by the Charles County Animal Care Center in Maryland, Lost Dog & Cat Rescue Foundation in Virginia, and Mt. Pleasant Animal Shelter in New Jersey.

“Honestly, one of my friends who’s also a volunteer rescue pilot for the El Paso Rescue Viking, he introduced me to the owner, Michael, and I hopped on a trip with him,” Mamauag said. “We went down to, I forget where, but we rescued about 35 cats that day.”

“Honestly, it was just a great feeling being able to work with them and meeting all the foster parents and the shelters and the people around. It was really inspiring and I really wanted to help out and enjoy.”

Mamauag has been a pilot for about three to four years and has flown “well over 50 missions.”

“Usually we have our typical house pets, dogs and cats, but every now and again we’ll get a couple foxes, cats, anybody that really needs help rescuing,” he said.

“Well, I believe so far we’ve done four or five this month. It’s really getting up there because of the summertime. But usually we do about once a week, once or twice a week,” he said of the mission frequency.

“Well, you can look it up on our website on podsfortherescue.org. For anyone, shelters or people looking to see if they can help move animals from those states down south to up north, that’s our biggest mean of communication,” he said. “And yeah, fantastic.”

“I love what I do, but the only reason we’re able to do what we do is due to donations of people that also love these animals,” Mamauag said. “So if you want to continue to support us, we love it and we thank you.”

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SPOTSYLVANIA, Va. – Bowser, an eight-year-old Miniature Pinscher mix, is still patiently waiting to find a family of his own after years without a permanent home.

This small, scruffy-faced gentleman sports an adorable beard and mustache that are sure to steal your heart. Bowser is completely house-trained and accustomed to being left alone for long hours. While he’d prefer a family that’s around more often, he’s perfectly fine being on his own for a typical 8-hour workday.

Bowser would thrive in a calm household without cats or young children. He may also be a great companion for someone looking for a low-maintenance dog who still loves affection and quiet time.

If you have other dogs at home, don’t forget to bring them for a meet-and-greet to ensure a good fit. Come meet Bowser today between noon and 4 p.m.—he might just be your perfect match!

Spotsylvania County Animal Shelter
450 TV Drive, Fredericksburg, VA 22408
Phone: (540) 507-7459
Visit: Spotsylvania Animal Control

Think Bowser could be the one? Stop by the shelter today or share this post to help him find a loving home!

Zozo, a neutered male dog estimated to be 3–5 years old, is ready to meet his forever family at the Prince William County Animal Services Center.

This playful, friendly pup is always up for an adventure. Zozo is a happy-go-lucky boy who loves to explore, make new friends, and share his signature kisses. He’s smart, treat-motivated, and thrives on companionship and fun. Whether it’s playtime in the yard or a walk around the park, Zozo is all in.

Zozo is in great health and fully up to date on his vaccinations. He’s strong, fit, and eager to become someone’s loyal companion. If you’re looking for a sweet, easygoing dog who loves people and lives for fun, Zozo may be your perfect match.

Visit Zozo at:
Prince William County Animal Services Center
14807 Bristow Road, Manassas, VA 20112
703-792-6465
www.pwcva.gov/department/animal-services

Open daily for adoptions:
Monday–Friday: 11 a.m.–5 p.m.
Saturday: 11 a.m.–4 p.m.
Sunday: Closed

Think Zozo could be your new best friend? Stop by the shelter today or share this post to help him find a loving home!

STAFFORD, Va. – They say “fighting like cats and dogs,” but Winston the kitten and Dory the dog are rewriting the story.

Winston was adopted just yesterday by a family who already had a dog, Dory. The adopter, a bit hesitant about adding a feline to the mix, asked if he could return Winston if things didn’t work out. The shelter’s answer? Yes—but they always recommend giving pets time to adjust.

Turns out, time wasn’t needed. From the moment they met, Dory and Winston clicked. The gentle dog found a little brother to watch over, and the curious kitten found a best friend. It’s a heartwarming match that shows just how magical adoption can be.

Looking to write your own happy ending? The Stafford County Animal Shelter has plenty of dogs, cats, and kittens ready to meet you!

Visit the Stafford County Animal Shelter
26 Frosty Lane, Stafford, VA 22554
📞 (540) 658-7387
🌐 staffordcountyanimalcontrol.com
🕚 Monday–Friday: 11 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
🕘 Saturday: 9:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Think your home might be the perfect place for a new furry friend? Stop by the shelter today or share this story to help more pets find their forever homes!

WOODBRIDGE, Va. – Four playful pups are looking for their forever homes starting today at the Prince William County Animal Shelter.

These 10-week-old bundles of joy—one male and three females—are a fluffy mix of 79% Pomeranian, 14% American Eskimo, and a touch of Terrier, Spaniel, and Chihuahua. While their DNA is diverse, their irresistible charm is 100% ADORABLE.

The puppies will be available for adoption when the shelter opens at 11 a.m. today. If you’re looking to add a sweet new member to your family, now is the perfect time to visit.

📍 Location:
Prince William County Animal Shelter
14807 Bristow Road
Manassas, VA 20112

📞 Contact:
Visit pwcva.gov/department/animal-services for more information on adoption requirements and procedures.

Come meet your new best friend!

MANASSAS, Va. – The Manassas City Animal Shelter is hopping with excitement as three two-month-old bunnies are now ready to find their forever homes.

According to shelter staff, these energetic, curious female rabbits are looking for families ready to commit to proper rabbit care. “Bunnies make wonderful companions, but they have specific care needs that are different from other pets like cats or dogs,” the shelter shared. “We always recommend doing a little homework first to ensure their new families are prepared to give them the best life possible.”

Rabbit care includes daily fresh hay, safe spaces to exercise, regular grooming, and proper vet visits. Bunnies can live eight to twelve years or longer and need plenty of social interaction and playtime.

Those interested in adopting or learning more can contact the shelter at 703-257-2420 or check out all adoptable pets on the Manassas City Animal Shelter’s Petfinder page.

FREDERICKSBURG, Va. – National Rescue Dog Day is coming up on May 20, and Old Dominion Humane Society (ODHS) is using the occasion to shine a spotlight on its mission to save, heal, and rehome dogs in need—every single day of the year.

According to a release from ODHS, the Fredericksburg-based nonprofit is calling on the community to adopt, foster, volunteer, and donate in support of the thousands of dogs that come through their doors. Since opening in 2013, the all-volunteer organization has found homes for more than 8,000 dogs—many rescued from neglectful situations, hoarding cases, and overcrowded shelters across the South.

Just this year, volunteers helped save 22 dogs from a hoarding case in Kentucky and 33 more living in poor conditions in southwestern Virginia. In the wake of hurricanes last fall, the group also stepped in to rescue several displaced dogs from South Carolina.

ODHS provides its animals with vaccinations, microchips, medical care, food, and—perhaps most importantly—human connection. The organization relies heavily on donations and local volunteers to keep its operation going. They’re especially in need of foster families, cleaning supplies, and dog food. Those interested can learn more or submit applications at olddominionhumanesociety.org.

Adoption events are held at their facility at 3602 Lafayette Boulevard on Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Advance applications are encouraged and receive priority over walk-ins.

STAFFORD, Va. – The Ferry Farm neighborhood will host its first "Furry Friends of Ferry Farm" guided walking tour on June 7, 2025, beginning at 9 a.m. The 1.3-mile loop will showcase pets from the neighborhood and encourage donations for the Stafford County Animal Shelter. The event is free and will start and end at Ferry Farm Elementary School.

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Who could resist this adorable head tilt?

Drac is a charming, curious pup currently available for adoption at the City of Manassas Animal Adoption Center. With one look, he’ll melt your heart—and he’s hoping you’ll find him as irresistible in person as he is in photos.

Whether you’re looking for a loyal walking buddy, a backyard explorer, or just a best friend to cuddle with at the end of the day, Drac could be the perfect match.

The City of Manassas Animal Adoption Center is located at:

10039 Dean Drive, Manassas, VA 20110
703-257-2420

You can learn more about Drac and other adoptable pets by visiting the official adoption page.

Stop by and meet Drac in person—you just might fall in love.

FREDERICKSBURG, Va. — When Diane Wheeler and her family adopted Honey from Old Dominion Humane Society (ODHS) five years ago, they quickly realized she had a calm, friendly personality well-suited for more than just home life. After five years as a beloved family pet, Honey began the process of becoming a certified therapy dog.

In 2024, Honey earned her certification from the Alliance of Therapy Dogs (ATD), an international registry that tests and certifies dogs for animal-assisted activities. The process ensures each dog has the right temperament, obedience, and relationship with its handler to provide comfort in therapeutic settings.

Today, at 10 years old, Honey volunteers with Blue Gray Therapy Dogs, visiting children in therapy, memory care residents, rehabilitation centers, and patients at a local hematology/oncology infusion clinic.

Research shows that interacting with therapy animals reduces blood pressure, relieves pain, and increases endorphins—promoting calm and emotional well-being.

On April 30, Honey will help mark National Therapy Animal Day, founded by Pet Partners to honor the more than three million visits made each year by therapy animals and their handlers. The day celebrates the important role these animals play in supporting physical and emotional health.

Old Dominion Humane Society, the organization that connected Honey with her forever family, holds weekly adoption events:

• Wednesdays from 5–7 p.m.
• Fridays from 6–8 p.m.
• Saturdays from 11 a.m.–3 p.m.
• Sundays from 11 a.m.–1 p.m.

Visit them at 3602 Lafayette Blvd., Fredericksburg, VA, or learn more about available dogs, adoption applications, volunteering, fostering, and donations at olddominionhumanesociety.org.

Note: ODHS does not train or select dogs for therapy certification. Its mission is to match rescue dogs with loving homes.