By Kathleen Silver
Giving your pet dental treats is a great way to remove some gunk from their teeth. But it’s not as effective as creating a home brushing routine AND scheduling regular professional dental cleanings. Even with dental treats, bacteria attach to our pet’s teeth over time. In fact, most pets by the age of 2 years have some periodontal disease, which affects the gums and roots of the pet’s teeth.
The hard truth is that dental disease causes significant problems in pets. When even a few years of tartar, plaque, and bacteria have built up and caused inflammation and diseased roots and gums, your pet may already be experiencing chronic life-changing pain. And no responsible pet owner should wait until they see that their pet is in obvious distress or showing drastic behavioral changes before scheduling a dental cleaning.
Don’t Replace a Dental Cleaning with Products
Do you think you can avoid dental cleanings by using products that claim to clean a pet’s teeth? There are great products on the market that improve the smell of breath and help prevent plaque and tartar build-up. But these products do not claim to be a substitute for annual professional cleanings.
Professional dental cleanings range from $300 – $1000 per animal when performed by a general vet practitioner; higher with a board-certified veterinary dentist. Unfortunately, most pet insurance policies do not cover the cost of cleanings. And, they will not cover the cost of dental disease if a pet has not had regular cleanings, as this would be considered a pre-existing condition. So, as pet owners, we must consider dental care a personal routine and a cost associated with pet ownership.
Make Brushing a Routine
Make brushing your pet’s teeth an experience where you bond with your animal. For example, brushing routines work great after a walk or nap when your pet is most relaxed. And being patient is essential when teaching your pet new behavior patterns. It might not work on the first, second, or third try, but it’s necessary to keep at it and make it as enjoyable as possible for your pet. It could be a few weeks until your pet settles into the routine ultimately, so keep at it!
Have you heard the term “baby steps” regarding training a pet? It’s no different for home dental cleaning. First, start teaching your pet by setting out the toothbrush and letting your pet taste toothpaste. Doing this lets your pet become familiar with the implements and not fear foreign objects. Then, start teaching your pet to be used to you touching their mouth. Do this when the pet is relaxed. Next, rub your pet’s teeth with your finger. Gradually, switch to putting toothpaste on your finger and then to putting the toothpaste on the toothbrush.
The outside of your pet’s teeth (the side facing the cheek) is the only area to be concerned with brushing. You may not be able to do the whole mouth each time, but each brush stroke is a victory. And, use toothpaste for pets, not human toothpaste, as it has ingredients like detergents and fluoride that are not good for your pet’s overall well-being.
Save for Your Pet’s Future
It is not cheap to have a pet’s teeth cleaned. But it is necessary to be the best pet owner. Think of the cost now as an investment in the future to avoid higher veterinary costs later on. In addition, cleanings can identify other issues, such as broken teeth, misalignment of teeth, tumors or cysts, and abscesses.
Do you have a rainy day, college fund, or vacation account? Consider keeping a separate (never touch) “Furever Friend” savings account. These days, some local credit unions and banks offer higher-interest savings accounts (with some restrictions and fees, so read the fine print) just for pet savings. Setting aside funds for your pet will help ensure they get the care they need to live a long healthy life.
The federal tax law changes that took effect in 2026 have changed how charitable giving affects your taxes — and for many donors, they’ve created new opportunities to give in ways that are both meaningful and financially smart. If you support local organizations like the Humane Society of Loudoun County, here’s what you should know.
You May Benefit from the 2026 Changes
You may now receive a tax benefit even if you don’t itemize: If you take the standard deduction, you can deduct up to $1,000 in qualifying charitable donations (or $2,000 if you’re married and file jointly). That means your generosity to local rescues like HSLC can now come with a tax benefit — even if you’ve never itemized before.
If you itemize, planning matters more than ever: Charitable gifts are still deductible but only amounts that exceed 0.5% of your Adjusted Gross Income count. Thoughtful timing and tracking of your gifts can help you maximize the benefit.
Some tax-efficient giving options are unchanged: If you’re age 70½ or older, Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) from an IRA remain a powerful way to give — allowing you to support a nonprofit directly while reducing taxable income. Other long-standing giving strategies may also still apply, depending on your situation.
Giving in a Way That Works for You
With these changes, many donors find it helpful to think about their giving over the course of the year rather than only at year-end. Whether you prefer making one or two larger gifts or spreading your support across the year, having a plan can help you stay organized and make the most of available tax benefits.
Some supporters choose monthly giving as a simple way to manage their annual contributions, while providing steady support for the animals who rely on care every day. Even small, consistent gifts can add up over time. HSLC’s donation form provides a drop-down menu for you to select your preferred donation frequency (one-time, monthly, quarterly and annually).
Your Support Still Makes a Real Difference
No matter how you choose to give, your support helps the Humane Society of Loudoun County provide a safe landing and second chances for animals in our community. The 2026 tax changes may offer new financial incentives — but the impact of your generosity has always been priceless.
As always, consider speaking with a tax or financial advisor about what approach makes the most sense for you.
When the weather outside is frightful, these winter pet tips can keep your precious pets snug, safe, and warm.
1. Winter wellness: Has your pet had his/her preventive care exam (wellness exam) yet? Cold weather may worsen some medical conditions such as arthritis.
2. Know the limits: Just like people, pets’ cold tolerance can vary from pet to pet based on their coat, body fat stores, activity level, and health. Be aware of your pet’s tolerance for cold weather, and adjust accordingly.
3. Provide choices: Just like you, pets prefer comfortable sleeping places and may change their location based on their need for more or less warmth. Give them some safe options to allow them to vary their sleeping place to adjust to their needs.
4. Stay inside. Cats and dogs should be kept inside during cold weather. It’s a common belief that dogs and cats are more resistant than people to cold weather because of their fur, but it’s untrue. Some may be more tolerant but no pet should be left outside for long periods in below-freezing weather.
5. Feed a little more. Pets burn extra energy by trying to stay warm in wintertime. Feeding your pet a little bit more during the cold weather months can provide much-needed calories. Also, make sure she has plenty of water to drink will help keep her well-hydrated and her skin less dry.
Outdoor cats may seek shelter in or around your car. Make it a habit to check for feline hitchhikers.
6. Make some noise: A warm vehicle engine can be an appealing heat source for outdoor and feral cats, but it’s deadly. Check underneath your car, bang on the hood, and honk the horn before starting the engine to encourage feline hitchhikers to abandon their roost under the hood.
7. Check the paws: Check your dog’s paws frequently for signs of cold-weather injury or damage, such as cracked paw pads or bleeding. You may be able to reduce the chance of iceball accumulation by clipping the hair between your dog’s toes.
8. Play dress-up: If your dog has a short coat or seems bothered by the cold weather, consider a sweater or dog coat.
9. Fur is warmth. Never shave your dog down to the skin in winter, as a longer coat will provide more warmth. If your dog is long-haired, simply trim him to minimize the clinging ice balls, salt crystals and de-icing chemicals that can dry his skin, and don’t neglect the hair between his toes
10. Wipe down: During walks, your dog’s feet, legs and belly may pick up deicers, antifreeze, or other chemicals that could be toxic. When you get back inside, wipe down (or wash) your pet’s feet, legs and belly to remove these chemicals and reduce the risk that your dog will be poisoned after (s)he licks them off of his/her feet or fur.
11. Icy Dangers: Antifreeze is poisonous to pets. Pour cat litter over any spills to soak up the liquid, then sweep up and dispose of it. Ice-melting products can also irritate animals’ skin, or upset their stomach if ingested. Choose a pet-safe variety for outdoor walkways, and always wipe down your pet’s paws and belly after walks to remove any chemicals or ice on his fur.
12. Be prepared: Cold weather also brings the risks of severe winter weather, blizzards and power outages. Prepare a disaster/emergency kit, and include your pet in your plans. Have enough food, water and medicine (including any prescription medications as well as heartworm and flea/tick preventives) on hand to get through at least 5 days.
1. You’ll receive all the information and guidance you need.
When you decide to adopt a pet, you’re welcoming a new member into your family. That’s a big deal, and we will help you with every step along the way. Legitimate animal rescue organizations like HSLC require meet and greets to ensure compatibility between you and your new pet. When you adopt from us, you’ll also receive medical records and any available background information. Pets are guaranteed to be spayed/neutered when of the proper age, microchipped, and up-to-date on vaccinations. But that’s not all–HSLC takes great care to ensure that your new pet is a perfect match for your home and lifestyle. Already have a canine companion, but thinking about adding a feline friend into the mix? We’ll help you to find a cat that loves dogs as much as you do. And of course, if your household includes young children, we’ll pair you with an animal that thrives around your little ones. Our top priority is creating a match that will last a lifetime, so let us help you find your ideal companion. Read up on how you can meet your future furry family member here.2. You’re helping save a life, which in turn saves even more lives.
HSLC saves many animals from unnecessary euthanasia by intaking them from overcrowded shelters. When you adopt your new companion, you’ll open up space for a new animal in a dire situation to receive the second chance they deserve. HSLC believes in giving every animal the opportunity to live and thrive.
3. You’ll receive ongoing support.
One of the biggest benefits of adopting from HSLC is that the organization cares about their animals even after they’re settled into their forever homes. If your situation changes in the future, we will help you to keep your best friend in your home. HSLC keeps a list of resources, but if you need extra assistance, you can reach out anytime by emailing helpanimals@humaneloudoun.org. Keeping companion pets in their happy homes is a priority for us. You’ll be spending many happy years with your new best friend, so start things off on the right paw by choosing adoption!
IF YOUR PET COULD SPEAK, PART 8
By Uchenna C. Okeke
Imagine waking up one morning to your furry friend wagging their tail, panting softly, and staring at you with those bright, expectant eyes. They can feel the shift in the air — the decorations emerging, the routine changing, the excitement building. Their wide-eyed look practically says, “We need to talk.”
If your pet could speak, they’d probably tilt their head, let out a soft sigh, and say: “I can tell the holidays are here. I love the joy… but please keep me safe and comfortable.”
Why the Holidays Feel So Big to Pets
The holidays arrive with scents, sounds, and sights that feel completely new to pets. That first wave of unfamiliar smells, from festive foods to new cleaning products, can make their safe little world feel suddenly unfamiliar. Pets read their environment through their noses and ears long before their eyes, so when your home starts smelling like a forest, a bakery, and a fireworks show all at once, it’s both exciting and overwhelming.
Then there’s the visual chaos. One day, their living room is calm and predictable. The next, new furniture arrangements, blinking lights, and strange objects that suddenly appear, turning a once-familiar space into something strange and unpredictable. To them, it might feel like their calm little world has been flipped upside down.
Add in loud music, unfamiliar guests, children running around, and sudden changes in routines, and it’s easy to see why your pet might look a little overwhelmed. While celebration is going on, they’re quietly trying to process a world that transformed overnight.
And that’s where the real challenge begins because the same holiday sparkle that delights humans can hide dangers they don’t understand.
Common Holiday Hazards
- Noisy Fireworks & Loud Decorations: While fireworks, flashing lights, and ornaments may be entertaining for humans, pets experience them as sudden, startling, and often overwhelming noises.
- Toxic Foods, Tinsel, Ribbons, and Ornaments: The holiday kitchen is full of dangers. Chocolate, grapes, spicy foods, and alcohol can all be harmful (Learn more here). Shiny decorations like tinsel and ribbons may look like toys but can be dangerous if chewed or swallowed.
- Crowded Rooms and Unfamiliar Guests: Some pets enjoy company, but others get anxious around noise and strangers. A house full of guests can feel overwhelming, especially when routines are disrupted.
Being aware of these hazards helps us protect them before stress ever begins.
Pet-Friendly Safety Tips
- Create a quiet “safe haven”: Set up a cozy spot with their bed, toys, or blanket, a place where no one disturbs them.
- Keep harmful items far away: Ribbons, scissors, and plastic bits are tempting and can be choking hazards.
- Manage noise thoughtfully: White-noise machines, soft music, or closing the curtains can help calm sound-sensitive pets.
- Watch entrances, exits, and wrapping chaos: Open doors and packaging can tempt curious paws and lead to escapes or accidents.
Keeping Them Comfortable While the Fun Rolls On
- Stick to routine feeding and walk times: Familiar schedules help them feel grounded, even during chaos.
- Add something familiar to the festive setup: Add a favorite toy or blanket to the holiday décor so they feel included.
- Offer extra cuddles and calm reassurance: A gentle touch or soft words remind them that even with all the noise and new faces, their world is still safe because you are there.
The holidays will come and go but your presence, your patience, and your protection are the things that keep your pet feeling safe when everything around them suddenly looks and sounds different. So as you celebrate, laugh, cook, and host, remember the quiet heart beating beside you, the one watching, listening, and trusting you to guide them through all the changes.
With the end of the year in sight, many people are looking for ways to combine their desire to help the causes they believe in with their desire to save on taxes. Here are four options to consider that can help you make the most of your giving this year.
Donate Stock
Donating stock that has increased in value is one of the most tax-efficient ways to give. When you transfer appreciated securities (that has been held for at least one year) directly to a charity, you may be able to avoid capital gains tax while claiming a charitable deduction for the full fair market value of the stock. That means your gift goes further — helping even more pets in need of rescue, medical care, and loving homes. HSLC has partnered with DonateStock.com to make the process fast, safe, and completely free.
Donor Advised Fund (DAF)
A Donor Advised Fund (DAF) is like a charitable investment account, for the sole purpose of supporting charitable organizations like the Humane Society of Loudoun County. DAFs are the fastest-growing charitable giving vehicle in the United States because they are one of the easiest and most tax-advantageous ways to donate. DAFDirect, a widget available on our website, enables you to recommend grants to HSLC directly from your DAF.
Donate an Auto or Real Estate
If you have a vehicle or piece of property you want to unload, consider donating it to the Humane Society of Loudoun County (HSLC) for what could be a significant tax deduction. We offer free pick-up for donated vehicles of all types—cars, trucks, boats, and even ATVs. Our real estate program takes any property type (land, homes, commercial) in any location so long as there is equity.
Give from your IRA
Qualified Charitable Distributions, or QCDs, are designed for supporters who want to make a charitable donation directly from their IRA to charities like HSLC. While there is no charitable deduction for making a charitable contribution using a QCD, the IRA distribution used to make the contribution is not subject to taxes. In 2025, the minimum age for QCDs is 70 ½ and the annual limit is $108,000. You may also consider designating HSLC as a beneficiary of your IRA.
Note: HSLC does not give tax advice to individuals. Please consult your professional tax advisor on how the above options might affect you specifically.
By Uchenna C. Okeke
During seasons of gifting, our thoughts turn to the ones we love – including our furry friends. We want to give gifts that speak to their deepest needs and desires. A gift that will make their heart sing and their spirit soar. While fancy toys and treats can certainly be delightful, we want to give something far more precious. Read on to discover the most coveted gifts for your furry friend – quality time, good health and nourishment, comfort, and safety.
The Gift of Quality Time
In today’s busy world, it is easy to get caught up in our daily routines and forget to spend quality time with our pets. But pets need attention and interaction to stay happy and healthy. By spending quality time with your pet, you’re showing them that they’re important to you and that you care about their well-being.
Some ways you can spend quality time with your pet:
- Play with your pet: you can play fetch with your dog or use a laser pointer with your cat, or try a new activity such as agility training or swimming.
- Go for a walk: Taking your pet for a walk is a great way to get some exercise and fresh air while spending quality time with your pet.
- Cuddle on the couch: Sometimes, the simplest things are the best. Cuddling with your pet on the couch can be a great way to relax and bond with your pet.
- Simply be present: Sometimes, the best thing you can do for your pet is simply to be present. Sit with them, pet them, and enjoy their company.
The Gift of Good Health and Nourishment
A healthy pet is a happy pet. Consider gifting your pet a veterinary check-up to ensure they are in good health. Regular health checks can help detect any potential issues early on, preventing more serious problems from developing.
A nutritious diet is essential for your pet’s overall health and well-being. Consider upgrading your pet’s food to a high-quality, balanced diet that meets their specific nutritional needs. Limit treats to ensure pets can keep a healthy weight.
The Gift of Comfort
Just like humans, pets need a comfortable and cozy place to rest and relax. Providing a warm and inviting space for your pet to snuggle up in can be a wonderful gift. Whether it’s a plush bed or a soft blanket, a comfortable place to sleep can help your pet feel relaxed and content.
Consider the following ideas to create a comfortable haven for your pet:
- Provide a warm and cozy bed or mattress
- Offer a soft blanket or a cozy throw for snuggling up
- Create a quiet and peaceful space for rest and relaxation
- Ensure good ventilation and a comfortable temperature
- Provide cozy and quiet hiding places.
The Gift of Safety
Providing a safe environment for your pet can help reduce stress and anxiety, and prevent injuries and illnesses. By taking steps to ensure your pet’s safety, you can give them the gift of peace of mind and a long, healthy life.
Consider the following ideas to create a safe environment for your pet:
- Pet-proof your home by securing toxic substances out of reach.
- Remove hazardous items like sharp objects.
- Provide a safe outdoor space with adequate fencing and shelter.
- Be prepared for emergencies with a pet first aid kit and a plan.
As you consider what gifts to give your pet, prioritize what truly matters to them. Give them the gifts that will bring them joy, comfort, and happiness.
The holidays are a time for kindness, generosity, and community — and this year, you can make a difference for local cats and dogs in need by setting up your very own Giving Tree to benefit the Humane Society of Loudoun County (HSLC).
It’s a fun, festive way to invite your friends, coworkers, customers, or neighbors to give back while helping animals get the care they need to stay healthy, safe, and loved.
🌟 What Is a Giving Tree?
A Giving Tree is a holiday tree decorated with tags or ornaments, each representing a way to help. Instead of gifts for people, the ornaments on an HSLC Giving Tree represent life-changing support for animals in our community — things like pet food, vaccinations, and spay/neuter surgeries.
Each tag includes a QR code or link that directs donors straight to the HSLC donation page (or another donation option set up by the host). It’s easy, fun, and 100% impactful.
🐾 Why It Matters
HSLC doesn’t operate a shelter — our lifesaving work happens through a network of dedicated volunteers and foster homes. Every dollar raised through your Giving Tree helps fund:
- Pet food for families in need
- Spay/neuter programs that reduce pet overpopulation
- Vaccinations that keep animals healthy and ready for adoption
Your Giving Tree can make sure more animals stay in loving homes, more community cats are fixed, and more pets get the medical care they need.
🎁 How to Create Your Own Giving Tree
You can make a Giving Tree anywhere — at home, in your office, school, church, or business! Here’s how:
- Find Your Spot
Pick a visible location for your tree — somewhere people gather or visit regularly. - Decorate with Purpose
Add ornaments or tags that represent specific needs, such as:- $25 for pet food
- $50 for vaccinations
- $100 for a spay/neuter surgery
- Or simply “Donate to Help Local Animals”
- Add QR Codes
Create a simple QR code that links directly to HSLC’s donation page and/or our wish lists (or your personalized fundraiser page). You can use a free QR code generator online. Print and attach the codes to ornaments or gift tags. - Spread the Word
Encourage friends, coworkers, or customers to scan a tag and make a donation.
Share photos of your tree on social media and tag HSLC to inspire others to do the same! - Celebrate the Impact
Every contribution — big or small — adds up to more full food bowls, more healthy pets, and fewer homeless animals in Loudoun County.
✨ Be the Light for Animals This Holiday Season
When you set up a Giving Tree, you’re not just decorating for the holidays — you’re creating a ripple of kindness that reaches animals and families across Loudoun County.
So grab a tree, print some tags, and start spreading the spirit of giving. Together, we can make this holiday brighter for every tail that wags and every heart that purrs.
IF YOUR PET COULD SPEAK, PART 7
By Uchenna C. Okeke
Time moves differently for our furry friends. One day they’re full of energy, running around the yard, and before you know it, they start moving slower, their fur turns a little gray, and they nap more often. If your pet could speak, at this stage of their life, their voice would sound softer, not weaker, just wiser. They would tell you that their body feels different, that jumping and running aren’t as easy as before. And if you listen closely, their heart would whisper:
“I’m aging, please be patient.”
What Aging Looks Like in Pets
As pets grow older, their bodies and habits start to change. You might notice that your dog or cat sleeps longer, plays less, or takes more time to climb stairs. Their eyes might look cloudy, their hearing might fade, and their joints may ache.
Some older pets become more attached and follow you around, while others prefer quiet spaces. These changes don’t mean they love you less, they just need your love in a gentler way.
How to Care for an Aging Pet
Caring for an older pet takes understanding and small adjustments that make them feel safe and comfortable:
- Offer softer bedding: Soft bedding and warm spots help sore joints.
- Switch to senior pet food: Age-appropriate diets can aid digestion and joint health.
- Exercise gently: Shorter, more frequent walks or low-impact play keeps them active.
- Provide regular vet checkups: Regular checkups help detect health problems early.
- Be patient with accidents or forgetfulness: Let them move, eat, and explore at their own pace
- Keep routines steady: Older pets like knowing what to expect; sudden changes can confuse them.
- Show love daily: Extra cuddles, gentle words, and quiet time together mean the world.
Aging isn’t an illness; it is a natural stage of life, one that calls for understanding, adaptation, and love in gentler forms. So whether you are watching your long-time friend grow older or thinking about opening your heart to a senior pet, remember this: older pets deserve the same warmth, comfort, and second chances as any other.
Giving Older Pets a Chance
While many people are drawn to puppies and kittens, older pets are often overlooked during adoption or fostering. But adopting a senior pet isn’t just compassionate, it comes with real, heart-warming benefits:
- They’re calm and gentle: Senior pets are usually well-behaved and love quiet company.
- Their personality is clear: You’ll know exactly what kind of pet you’re bringing home.
- They’re easy to live with: Many are already house-trained and used to people.
- They’re deeply grateful: Older pets seem to know when they’ve been given a second chance and they show gratitude for it every day.
- You make a real difference: Adopting or fostering a senior pet gives them comfort and love in their golden years.
If your pet could speak, they would remind you that love doesn’t age, it simply grows deeper. Each quiet walk, each gentle touch, each look of trust tells a story of shared years and unspoken gratitude. So hold them close, move a little slower, and treasure the time you have together, because love doesn’t grow old, it grows gold.
As the holiday season approaches, the Humane Society of Loudoun County is excited to launch our final 50/50 Online Raffle of the year — this is your chance to end 2025 with a win for yourself while helping animals in need right here in our community.
When you enter, you could take home 50% of the funds raised in cash! The remaining proceeds will go directly toward supporting HSLC’s life-saving mission — helping homeless, at-risk, and vulnerable animals receive the second chances they deserve.
🗓️ Winner Drawn: November 15, 2025, at 7:00 PM at the Village at Leesburg Tree Lighting
💸 The more you give, the more chances you get:
- $10 = 10 entries
- $20 = 25 entries
- $50 = 75 entries
- $100 = 200 entries
This raffle is a fun and impactful way to help cats and dogs this holiday season. Just imagine: a life-saving contribution for pets in need and a chance to walk away with a holiday cash boost! 🎁🐾
👉 Enter now: https://go.rallyup.com/hslcholiday/Campaign/Details
Thank you for being part of our compassionate community. Good luck!