By Maureen Preville

That little black dress and debonair tux are staples in our closets for those occasions when we want to turn heads. Not so, though, for chic, sleek, black-attired cats relegated to wallflower status, being frequently overlooked by potential suitors without even a glance.  The problem is so common that it  has earned its own name – black cat syndrome. Sadly, black cats (and dogs) fall victim to this phenomenon and are passed over in favor of more colorful pets.

Despite being lauded as calm, affectionate, intuitive, playful and grateful for love, black cats are usually the last to be adopted from shelters and rescue organizations, if indeed they are adopted at all.  Blame it on centuries-old prejudices against black cats, and more recently, the proliferation of ‘selfie’ photos which some feel don’t properly capture a black cat’s lovely features.

Although black cats were unjustly trashed in the superstitious Middle Ages as witches’ companions,  the good far outweighs the bad in folklore.  In Scottish and Celtic lore, a black cat signifies good luck and prosperity, and a woman with a black cat is promised to have many suitors.  In ancient Egypt, no animal was held in as high esteem as the black cat.  The Egyptian goddess Bastet, who was commonly depicted as a black cat, personified the playfulness, grace, affection and cunning of a cat and the power of a lioness. During the height of her popularity, killing a black cat was punishable by death.  Lastly, what other pet has been more commanding in world history than black cats?  A good example is Felix the cat, who was among the first large balloons in the 1920s Thanksgiving Day Macy’s Parades.

Now in modern days, the US Centers for Disease Control asserts that cats of all colors and varieties provide emotional support, improve moods and contribute to the overall morale of their owners. Owning one may decrease blood pressure, cholesterol and triglyceride levels, as well as eliminate loneliness.

As the owner of three wonderful black cats within my life, I can personally testify that they are sweethearts. We encourage you to find out for yourself.  Check out the dynamite kitties that can do wonders for you:  https://humaneloudoun.org/adopt/available-cats/

By Madeleine Devost

Hops and Malt are two special needs cats with a rough past. Before they were rescued by the Humane Society of Loudoun County (HSLC), they experienced a horror story—living in a windowless cement office building for three years with up to thirteen other cats. When they came to us, Hops and Malt were terrified of people and it became very clear that they would need a loving home with a patient owner.

Hops (Malt on the left)

Lucky for them, Hops and Malt found Jennifer, a wonderful HSLC volunteer and foster.

Although they began to slowly come out of their shell for Jennifer, Hops and Malt were uncomfortable around other people. This made adoption events very difficult for them. Like many cats, they did not show well at these events which reduced their chances of being adopted. Their severe dust allergies posed another challenge. Jennifer had to take extra special care of the pair as they endured ongoing allergy shots.

Despite their issues, Jennifer fell in love with Hops and Malt and all of their unique quirks. Throughout the foster experience, she realized that Hops and Malt would have a hard time finding a home that they would feel comfortable in as much as they did in hers.  So after roughly 18 months, she decided to adopt them.  When a foster parent decides to keep their foster, it is called a “foster fail.”  Jennifer has foster failed three times, all with black cats for which she has a very soft spot.

Jennifer’s foster fails looking forward to their new lives.

Cynthia O’Connell decided to sponsor Hops and Malt’s adoption fees through our Guardian Angel program after finding them on our website. Hops and Malt are the second and third cats that Cynthia has helped out through this program. Her living arrangement won’t allow for more pets so she finds the program to be an incredibly rewarding way to make sure that HSLC’s amazing animals find great homes. She’s looking forward to doing it again soon.

The HSLC is overjoyed that Hops and Malt have found such a loving home and two new ‘siblings,’ Janxi and Charlie. Special thanks to Jennifer and Cynthia for giving these special cats their happy ending.

By Ella Simpson

Hello!  My name is Ella and recently I have become a volunteer for the Humane Society.   Now, I get to share my story with others, so they may learn from my experience.

My mom and I absolutely adore animals.  About two years ago we adopted a tortoiseshell cat that we later named Gypsy.  We then learned after several tries, while pet sitting family members animals, that she did not like other cats or dogs coming into what she thought to be “her territory”.  This was going to be a problem for us because, being such animal lovers, we wanted to have the ability to have other animals in our house, or potentially adopt another companion.  Then this cat came along and so we knew that could never happen.  So, we decided to volunteer so we could still be with other animals.  We looked everywhere but nowhere was right until we found the Humane Society.  The Humane Society is letting us help make a difference despite my age (I’m 12) and I’m so happy I decided to volunteer and I hope you decide the same.

We found the Humane Society through the internet while searching for places where we could help make a difference and help animals.  Next, we set up an interview, and decided we wanted to help out by checking on cats that are in pet stores, once a week. It doesn’t take much time to help. We also decided to help make food bags for the animals whose owners can’t afford to feed them properly. You can find these bags at Loudoun Hunger Relief. Even if you are a very busy person, you can still help out by donating food, money or new toys, everything helps. You can even help by spreading awareness in your workplace or school. Even just talking to others that you think would like to volunteer. I love helping out because I know I am helping an animal in need so hopefully they can all live the amazing life they deserve. 

By Valerie Burton

Loudoun County is a place where animals are part of life, and compassionate, competent veterinarians abound. Many of them collaborate with the Humane Society of Loudoun County (HSLC) by providing discounted services, and this is an invaluable support that enables HSLC to help more animals. One of our partners is Tally Oaks Veterinary Wellness Center, a practice owned by a woman who knew from elementary school that she was going to be a vet.

“I grew up on a small farm, with lots of pets,” says Dr. Tania Woerner, VDM, “so I knew at a very early age exactly what I was going to do. I also loved to read and study, which did help a lot.”

Accustomed to being surrounded by a variety of animals–dogs, cats, horses, goats, sheep, chickens, cows—it was a natural decision to set up her practice in a bucolic setting where all are welcome and made to feel comfortable. The center, located on a serene property in Purcellville, is named for the trees that are the landscape’s most prominent feature. The serenity extends into the waiting room, which overlooks tranquil horse pastures and a barn. The exam rooms have soft music playing and the aroma of essential oils.

If this is sounding more like a day spa than a vet’s office, it’s because Tally Oaks is a holistic all-around wellness center for animals. Every aspect of services provided has the intention of soothing the anxiety normally provoked by visits to the vet, because a more relaxed animal will receive a better and more accurate exam. Two members of the Tally Oaks staff received certification from a nationally-recognized program called the Fear-Free Initiative. Under this purview, techniques such as eliminating wait time are used to alleviate stress in furry-faced patients (and the people who care for them).

Holistic services incorporate all aspects of an animal’s life in treatment, not just the symptoms of a disease or injury. By exploring the history, genetics, environment, relationships, nutrition, stress level, and everything else that affects well-being, Dr. Woerner and her staff aim to provide gentle, minimally invasive solutions to issues that may be interfering with quality of life. This approach is not in contrast with western treatment; it is in fact a complement to traditional practices which are still a necessary component of overall health.

For example, an animal may have an underlying condition requiring surgery, drug treatment, medical testing—all of these are provided at Tally Oaks. The holistic approach alleviates symptoms and goes a step further, seeking to resolve underlying causes of disease that may be preventable, as this is preferable to getting sick in the first place.

Tally Oaks offers well-known and widely accepted holistic therapies. In treating the animals who are her patients, and who are cherished by their caretakers, Dr. Woerner determines the best combination of both conventional and holistic therapies.

Partnering with HSLC to provide discounted services like low-cost spaying and neutering is another way for Tally Oaks to promote a holistic, loving approach to animals. “It is critical that we all work together to make sure there aren’t any unwanted or uncared for pets,” Dr. Woerner says. “By offering discounted spays and neuters, free exams, and discounted services, I can do my part to assure that more pets are adopted and receive the medical care they deserve.”

Please browse our website for more information about HSLC, our partners, and animals available for adoption.

For more information about Tally Oaks Veterinary Wellness Center, please visit www.tallyoaksvet.com.

As the Novel Coronavirus, COVID-19, continues to unfold, the HSLC Board and Volunteer Program would like to communicate our current status, the latest changes to our programs, and let you know that we’re here for you. We are committed to saving animal lives even during these unprecedented times, albeit with some changes.

• Our Intake, Foster, Adoption, Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR), Barn – Working Cats, and Loudoun Pet Pantry programs have been identified as essential business and we are able to continue our operations during the “Shelter In Place” order for Virginia.
• We have moved all volunteer and foster orientations to Skype meetings.
• We have moved all adoption meet-and-greets to virtual meetings.
• All cats residing at pet stores across the county are now in foster homes.
• We have seen a significant uptick in people interested in volunteering, and have therefore moved our volunteer orientations to weekly instead of every other month.
• We made the difficult decision to postpone or cancel all events through at least May, including the March Paw Royale Spring Casino Fundraiser.
• We also anticipate that the 7-8 senior capstone projects being worked on by 25 seniors will most likely be cancelled.

As the Novel Coronavirus, COVID-19, continues to unfold, the HSLC Board and Volunteer Program would like to communicate our current status, the latest changes to our programs, and let you know that we’re here for you. We are committed to saving animal lives even during these unprecedented times, albeit with some changes. What does this mean to you? We still rely our fosters and volunteers to help save animal lives. For our more experienced volunteers, you may see some new volunteers join our group – please welcome them, share your experiences, and help mentor them. If you’re a new volunteer, welcome and don’t hesitate to ask questions. We’re all in this together.

We know this is a stressful time for you and your families. Please don’t hesitate to contact us at volunteer@humaneloudoun.org if you have any questions or concerns. Also, please let us know if there’s anything we can do to support you and your family.

The Humane Society of Loudoun County (HSLC), in collaboration with several other area organizations, recently participated in an effort that helped rescue 36 cats from a home eviction in Stephens City.  The initiative was spearheaded by For the Cat’s Sake who put out an urgent call for help.  Given the strong and swift response, they were able to pull together the rescue in just two days. 

The mostly friendly cats are now in caring hands who will find them great homes.  The participating organizations include 4Paws Rescue Team, PetConnect Rescue,  SPCA of Winchester, Frederick, & Clarke Counties, Humane Society of Warren County and Homeless Animals Rescue Team (HART). HSLC took in four of the cats, three of whom are already available for adoption.

The effort was a wonderful example of teamwork under a tight deadline. Our thanks go out to everyone who helped save these little lives and made the operation go so smoothly.

Here are the cats currently in our care:

Owl

Daffy

Boomer

Silver Fox

By Dr. Elizabeth Byers, DVM

Corona virus is a family name for a group of similar looking viruses.  They are named such because the virus particles have small spikes on top of them, appearing like little crowns.  This type of virus is very common among humans and animals alike.  They are, however, species specific; and do not jump from animals to humans.  This type of virus is one of the most likely cause behind the common cold in humans.  In animals, different corona viruses cause different illness ranging from respiratory to gastrointestinal illness.

The corona virus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) is a new type of coronavirus that began in China in 2019 and has quickly spread to people in many other countries.  It causes respiratory illness associated with cough, fever, and in some pneumonia.  It is transmitted through respiratory droplets from person to person.  While many viruses do have the ability to mutate, there is no evidence that this illness has or can affect animals in any way.

In order to prevent spread of disease, it is important individuals wash their hand frequently, disinfect surfaces, and avoid contact with others if they are feeling ill.  While handwashing is always recommended after contacting animals, pets do not play any role in the transmission of this novel coronavirus.

Please contact your family doctor if you have health concerns or further questions about COVID 2019.  If your pet becomes ill, it is always advised to contact your veterinarian.

References:   https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/general-information.html

https://wsava.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/COVID-19_WSAVA-Advisory-Document-Feb-29-2020.pdf

Recently, the beautiful Midnight had a bit of a scare. She was rushed to the vet because she was lethargic and not eating. It was thought that she might have developed diabetes.

Fortunately, Midnight was cleared of diabetes and is doing much better now. But, to ensure she stays stable, we are hoping to find Midnight her own foster or forever home. Currently, she shares a shed with other cats.  The shed is climate-controlled and specially adapted to ensure it’s a welcoming space for some of our foster cats. But, Midnight just isn’t a fan of other cats. However, she LOVES humans. And, she offers the best of both worlds: she’s a snuggly lap cat one moment and an independent, playful cat the next.

To foster Midnight, please complete an application here.

To adopt her, please complete an application here.

Ten-year old Midnight came to HSLC in August 2018 after her owners surrendered her for going outside the litter box. The leaky bladder was caused by a stone that has since been removed thus solving the problem.

“I used to go outside my litter box. Turns out, my previous owners didn’t know I had a lima bean sized bladder stone which has been removed. Now I’m all better and have perfect litter box manners.”

If fostering or adopting isn’t an option for you right now, please consider making a donation to help with Midnight’s ongoing care. She takes medication—like a boss—for a thyroid condition twice daily and is on a special diet to prevent any more urinary issues. Also, sponsoring or co-sponsoring her $150 adoption fee will increase the odds that she will finally get her happily ever after.

If you have any questions about helping Midnight, please contact us at helpanimals@humaneloudoun.org

Thank you for making a difference!

Zeke was trapped through our Trap/Neuter/Return (TNR) Program in July of 2018 at just 3 ½ months old. He was given the name Ezekiel (“Zeke” for short) which is the meaning for hope, or in Hebrew for “God will strengthen” because he was so scared of humans. Turned out his naming was more prophetic when he tested positive for Feline leukemia virus (FeLV).

FeLV is second only to trauma as the leading cause of death in cats, killing 85% of persistently infected felines within three years of diagnosis. The virus generally suppresses the immune system and can also predispose cats to deadly infections. Yet, exposure to the feline leukemia virus doesn’t have to be a death sentence; about 70% of cats who encounter the virus are able to resist infection or eliminate the virus on their own. But it is very contagious among cats.

With no place to go and no prospects as an unsocialized FeLV+ feral kitten, a couple of our volunteers, Pam and Tracy, agreed to take Zeke in as a foster at the farm in an isolation room where they could both care for him.

Fast forward several months – Zeke blossomed! Not only was he healthy, but he worked hard at the skills that would make him adoptable to a home with other FeLV+ cats or as an only cat. He learned to love both humans and pets, beg for treats and eat them out of hand while sitting on laps, and give head butts. He was a happy, sweet, gentle, loving kitten. And although he was still timid, he never hissed, growled or showed any aggression.

Zeke was joined by Wally Walrus, another FELV+ kitten, in late spring. Together, they ruled the roost, wreaked havoc, and demanded to be spoiled.

Although Zeke was healthy for the 16 months, he started failing quickly because of his FeLV. Zeke peacefully crossed the Rainbow Ridge in early December of 2019 with Pam, Tracy, and our animal coordinator Donna, by his side.

Pam says “While I wish so much more had been possible for Zeke, I am very grateful that Tracy and I could give him the loving life that he deserved. No kitten deserves any less. Run free little man – Tracy, Wally and I will miss you forever!”.

HSLC treats each and every one of the animals in our care as if they were our very own pets. Every effort is made to care for them and provide them the best possible lives. When they leave us like Zeke did, it leaves a small hole in our hearts.

 “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, what are you doing for others?”—Martin Luther King Jr.

 The holidays and the start of a new year inspire us to reflect not only on ourselves but also on the question posed by MLK in the above quote—what are we doing for others? As an all-volunteer organization, the Humane Society of Loudoun County (HSLC) would not exist without volunteers throughout Loudoun who assist with our programs and keep our organization running. They come from all walks of life and are united by their desire to do for others—in our case, to help save animals.

In 2019 HSLC welcomed a new group of volunteers from ECHO, a non-profit based in Leesburg that supports and empowers adults with disabilities. Each day over 200 individuals participate in ECHO’s programs, which include skill building, job placement, day support, and transportation.

These new volunteers have played a key role in supporting the Loudoun Pet Pantry, a collaboration between HSLC, Loudoun County Animal Services, and Loudoun Hunger Relief. The program’s goal is to help keep pets in loving homes by providing supplies to families in need. Donation boxes are located throughout the county.

Every Monday, the ECHO volunteers pick up donations for the Pet Pantry from several locations in Leesburg. The donations, which include pet food, crates, and all types of supplies, are then dropped off at a centralized location. HSLC volunteers repackage the food for distribution at Loudoun Hunger Relief. The other donated items are either used by HSLC’s other programs or passed along to other rescue organizations.

HSLC President Juanita Easton says, “We are very pleased to collaborate with ECHO. The volunteers are consistent and reliable, and they do a great job.”

Recently the ECHO volunteers expanded their participation, assisting at Loudoun Hunger Relief as the packages are unloaded and weighed. They are then shelved and ready for those in need. Often the emergency assistance received through Pet Pantry is a lifeline for families facing the possibility of surrendering a beloved pet due to unexpected financial hardship.

When asked why they decided to assist with this program, one of the ECHO volunteers said, “We pick up the cat food and the dog food, and we drop it off. Then it goes to someone who needs it.”

According to ECHO staff, volunteering has become a favorite activity. The group changes weekly, and participants often ask staff if they can go to Pet Pantry when they arrive on Mondays.

“Volunteering is a great way for our participants to be active members of the community,” states Jacob Brown, Program Coordinator in the Day Program at ECHO. “Adults with disabilities are often regarded as people who need help, but the truth is, they are just as capable, willing, and eager to give back as others. They enjoy it, and they are providing a valuable service, so it’s a win-win.”

 For more information on the Loudoun Pet Pantry, please visit HSLC’s website at www.humaneloudoun.org. For more information about ECHO, visit www.echoworks.org, Facebook (@ECHOworks), Twitter (@ECHOLeesburg), Instagram (@ECHOnonprofit), or LinkedIn.