August is Clear the Shelters month! Come meet our adoptable cats and kitties live and in-person! For a sneak peek, please visit the Humane Society of Loudoun County website to check out the current clowder!

If a particular feline (or two) catches your eye, complete an application today to expedite the application process.

By Liz Bresnahan 

If you are an animal lover, you know that a pet’s love is priceless. Life’s simple moments are that much sweeter. Maybe it is your cat’s calm purr as she keeps you company while reading or your dog’s excitement on walks that makes a routine stroll around the neighborhood anything but mundane. Pets provide so much joy and many consider them an integral part of the family.

If you are thinking about adopting a pet, the Humane Society of Loudoun County (HSLC) encourages you to consider an adult animal. While you ultimately have to do what is best for your household, many families who have adopted an adult dog or cat are so glad they did.  Here are a couple of points to think about if you are considering adopting an older companion animal.

Time: Quality over quantity 

Adopting an adult dog or cat may mean that you do not have as many years to spend with them as you would a puppy or kitten. However, the time you do have will be that much more cherished.  In certain cases, rescued animals may not have had an ideal life. However, because HSLC animals are placed in safe and loving foster homes prior to adoption, they can start to heal from their past, if needed.  Once adopted, you have the unique privilege of watching your pet continue to blossom into a more happy, trusting, and confident companion. And because you are helping your dog or cat rewrite their story, you can often expect them to show you unconditional love and loyalty in return.

Training: Basics are covered

Adult dogs and cats are usually potty-trained which is definitely a point in their favor. Many adoptable dogs will also know basic commands. But, if a dog needs additional training, know that you may be able to teach an old dog new tricks if you are dedicated to working closely with them. And, when you are successful, it will be so rewarding that you have directly supported the growth and development of your furry companion.

Temperament: No surprises

One of the biggest benefits of adopting an adult animal is that you know what you’re getting. You don’t have to wonder how big they will get or how their personalities will turn out. And, with adults, you are often getting an animal with a calmer temperament. For this reason, adults can be great starter pets for families with children.

Ready to adopt? Check out the wonderful adult animals that are available for adoption right now. Rest assured, HSLC will work with you to find the right animal to fit your household and lifestyle.

Come meet our adoptable cats and kitties live and in-person! For a sneak peek, please visit our website to check out the current clowder!

If a particular feline (or two) catches your eye, complete an application today to expedite the application process.

By Kathleen Silver

Recently, a kitty adopted from HSLC four years ago was returned to us. Unfortunately, Mindy’s family developed allergies and couldn’t keep her. Mindy, a gorgeous Tabby, also has one issue other than needing a new home: Obesity. She can’t effectively clean herself with so many extra pounds. Her coat was matted and dull by the time she came to HSLC. Mindy’s foster parent supposes that her previous home may have free-fed the companion animals in the house; therefore, it’s likely that Mindy snacked — a lot.

A Little On Obesity

Attempting to get a food-driven kitty like Mindy not to overeat may be challenging.  After all, it can be difficult to resist the constant meowing and big round eyes. But obesity in cats and dogs is one of the top dangers leading to diabetes, intra-abdominal cancers, heart disease, and hypertension. Furthermore, with disease comes extra veterinary costs for medications and tests and an increased risk of complications from anesthesia if a pet ever needs surgery. Obesity is common in older indoor pets that are not as active as they were in their early years and can lead to osteoarthritis, degeneration of joints, and bladder stones. Overweight pets are more likely to have shorter lives and tend to interact less with their families physically. They can be more lethargic, so it is easier to miss early signs of illness.

When a cat or dog is heading toward severe weight gain, it is time to acknowledge the situation. It is imperative to consult with a veterinarian on the correct approach to helping your companion animal lose or maintain weight so obesity doesn’t creep into their life. Simply cutting the amount of food may not be the ideal approach. It’s possible to cause a cat or dog to become malnourished by cutting food. What’s best is to talk to your veterinarian about the type, frequency, and portion sizes of the new food to facilitate weight loss. Then, it is the pet owner’s job to be consistent with the food and resist the temptation to give treats.

Introducing a pet to a new food takes time. Most pets like their routine, and changing it can cause them to retreat and become moody. Take the first 2-3 weeks to mix their everyday food with the new food. The goal is to wean them off the old food and habituate to the new, healthier diet.

Exercise is another feature to help an obese or overweight animal. However, exercise must begin slowly if the pet usually doesn’t move much. Even if a cat or dog lays on its back batting at a toy — that’s some exercise! Many people might say, “My pet won’t play.” But, with some trial and error, you will find an activity that your pet will enjoy. Once you find it, commit consistently to playing with your cat or dog for 5-10 minutes daily, more if possible. As time passes, your pet will eventually become more interested and may even seek you out for a few more minutes of playtime.

Back to Mindy’s Story

As for Mindy, she now eats a special low-carb diet to give her the best life possible and to reduce her weight. Mindy’s foster parent, Stephanie, reports that in only four weeks, Mindy’s coat has regained most of its former sheen, and she’s back to grooming herself.

Mindy is great with children and other cats; she tolerates dogs. Miss Mindy always finds a way to curl up on a lap. She craves attention and loves cuddling. However, Mindy won’t do well with a home that free feeds. She will need her meals on a schedule. Stephanie also says she doesn’t beg for food between meals, likely due to the high-quality food she’s now eating.

Mindy plays with toys and loves to interact with people and children. She has the most fun chasing plush toys with sounds or bells and hunting ribbons and string. Mindy is very friendly and ready to find her new home.

February 2023 Update: Mindy has been adopted! However, you can click here if you’re interested in adding one of her friends to your family!

Come meet our adoptable cats and kitties live and in-person! For a sneak peek, please visit our website to check out the current clowder!

If a particular feline (or two) catches your eye, complete an application today  to expedite the application process.

Come meet our adoptable cats and kitties live and in-person! For a sneak peek, please visit our website to check out the current clowder!

If a particular feline (or two) catches your eye, complete an application today  to expedite the application process.

REMINDER: Through the entire month of August, you can adopt two cats for one adoption fee during the Clear the Shelters BOGO promotion.

The Humane Society of Loudoun County (HSLC) will be at the Alamo Drafthouse at One Loudoun for CatVideoFest – the world’s #1 cat video festival! Come early and stop by the HSLC tables for free giveaways, HSLC merch and…fingers and paws crossed…CATS!  Also, Alamo will be donating a % of gross ticket sales to the Humane Society of Loudoun County!

Times and tickets: https://drafthouse.com/northern-virginia/show/catvideofest-2023

More about CatVideoFest: CatVideoFest is a compilation reel of the latest and best cat videos culled from countless hours of unique submissions and sourced animations, music videos, and classic internet powerhouses. CatVideoFest is a joyous communal experience, only available in theaters, and raises money for cats in need through partnerships with local cat charities to best serve cats in the area.

If you’ve been thinking about adopting, this is the purr-fect month to do so!  August 1-31, you can adopt two fur babies from the Humane Society of Loudoun County for just one adoption fee*! 

Review our adoptable animals here! Once you’re ready to apply, follow our relatively easy adoption process here!

Not interested in adopting right now? Help homeless animals in our community by making a donation today!

*Both cats must be placed in the same home upon adoption.

Come meet adoptable cats and kittens!  Visit our website for a sneak peek of cats and kittens that are available!

To volunteer and/or bring your foster animals, please click on the following link or copy the link into a new browser window:

Sunday, November 7th Sign-up:   CLOSED

The volunteer sign up for events is for current volunteers who have attended our Volunteer Orientation and signed a Volunteer Agreement. Contact HELPANIMALS@HUMANELOUDOUN.ORG for more information

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