Animals

Pets

Adopt Daphne: A Fun and Energetic Companion Looking for a Home

By Uriah Kiser

Meet Daphne, a sweet 2-year-old pup with a personality that’s as fun as it is adorable! Daphne came to the Spotsylvania Animal Shelter as a stray, and while she was a bit reserved at first, she’s now blossomed into a lively, energetic, and curious girl who loves attention.

This lovable dog walks wonderfully on a leash and enjoys exploring the outdoors. She’s eager to learn new things and thrives on positive interactions with people. While Daphne is quiet and calm in her kennel, her excitement is evident every time someone walks by—she’s always ready for a chance to play and explore outside.

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News

Stafford Shelter Hosts Sixth Annual Clear the Shelter Adoption Event

By Kelly Sienkowski
Dasher, a male husky

On Saturday, Aug. 10, the Stafford County Animal Shelter will host its sixth annual “Clear the Shelter” adoption event. This summer, the shelter has been overwhelmed by the number of pets surrendered by owners for many reasons, including increasing costs of pet care.

The shelter is legally required to take in all animals brought to them. Stafford County Sheriff’s Capt. Joseph Bice, who oversees the shelter, said, “We’re getting dogs at a rate of three to one compared to the rate of adoption.” He added, “We want to provide care and a place for them to stay, but the problem is space…In 2014, we took in around 330 dogs. Last year, we took in over a thousand, and this year we’re on track to take in 1,200 to 1,400.”

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Features

New Specialty Van Enhances Animal Control Operations in Prince William County

By Uriah Kiser

The Prince William County Animal Shelter has introduced a new van equipped with 10 adjustable kennels, enhancing the efficiency and comfort for animal control operations. This addition is a significant upgrade from the existing four-by-four vehicles that house fewer vehicles and lack modern amenities.

Debbie Haight, spokesperson for the county animal shelter, detailed the van’s layout and its capacity to adapt to various sizes of animals. “It has 10 containers, and these units can be modified to accommodate larger animals if necessary,” Haight explained. Unlike the current units that require animals to be brought back immediately due to inadequate facilities, the new van features a sophisticated HVAC system, allowing officers to manage multiple pickups without returning.

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Fairfax

Flock Talk: Class at Animal Shelter to Teach Chicken Behavior

By Uriah Kiser

Fairfax County Animal Shelter teams up with Adopt-a-Bird-Network for a class titled “Flock Talk: An Introduction to Chicken Behavior” on Sunday, July 28, from noon to 1:30 p.m. at the Lorton Campus, located at 8875 Lorton Road in Lorton.

The class aims to educate both new and experienced chicken keepers and individuals interested in learning more about chickens. It will explore various aspects of chicken behavior, including the social structure within flocks, the behavior of roosters, chicken communication methods, and their feeding and foraging habits. The session will also offer tips on maintaining the health and well-being of chickens.

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