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.
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.
By Lauren Puckett
Dr. Christine Rainwater drove her 14-year-old Honda Civic for 240,000 miles before deciding it was time to throw in the towel. As a dog owner and lover, Christine made the choice to donate her vehicle through CARS (Charitable Adult Rides & Services) to benefit the Humane Society of Loudoun County (HSLC).
Now CARS is launching its third annual Cartober campaign. As the name suggests, Cartober is an initiative that promotes vehicle donations for nonprofit organizations throughout the month of October. Donated vehicles are sold through used car markets to provide crucial funding for nonprofits all over the world. All vehicle types are accepted, running or not, and include cars, trucks, trailers, boats, RVs, motorcycles, campers, off-road vehicles, planes, heavy equipment, and farm machinery.
For Christine, donating her vehicle to save animals was an easy decision.
“I would love to adopt more – but the challenge is space (only so much room on the bed). And those pesky family and friends would question my sanity,” she said. “Since I can’t/shouldn’t adopt any more until there is room, I feel strongly about helping through the donation of my vehicle. Could I have sold the car? Yes, because it was in good working order with two new tires. But why go through the hassle when such a great organization with such a great mission could benefit?”
It’s easy to donate through Cartober. Simply fill out an online form, schedule a free and convenient car pick-up (usually within 24-72 hours), and receive a donation receipt. That’s it!
Interested in donating your vehicle to support HSLC? Find more information here.
October 22, 2025 @ 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Join us for the last Yappy Hour of the year at Spanky’s Shenanigans!
📍 Outside in the back patio area, HSLC will have a table set up to:
✔️ Answer questions about our work
✔️ Sell fun HSLC merchandise
✔️ Offer chances to win big in our 50/50 raffle—all proceeds help animals in need!
🍴 Come hungry—Spanky’s is generously donating 10% of all food sales to HSLC!
🐶 Don’t forget to bring your pup (in costume!) for Spanky’s dog costume contest. Just make sure your furry friend is safe and comfortable while showing off their festive look.
🎟️ We’ll be drawing the 50/50 raffle winner during the event, so grab your tickets now for a chance to win while supporting a great cause.
Let’s make this final Yappy Hour of the year one to remember—for us and for the animals! ❤️
Related Events
PART 4: The Love Letter They’d Write to You
By Uchenna C. Okeke
Picture your pet settling down to write a heartfelt letter to you. It likely wouldn’t be grand or clever. It would be simple, warm, and sincere. Every line would drip with gratitude, not just for the food and shelter, but for your presence, your patience, your love.
If your pet could speak, they could sit you down, and read you a letter–a letter made entirely of memories. Memories of love given, love received, and love that has never once wavered; memories you’ve built together, day after day, line after line.
Before the Letter Begins
The truth is you’ve already lived every line of any letter your pet would write. Companion animals don’t need a pen or paper. Their love language is usually on full display – crafted in tail wags, slow blinks, eager barks, and gentle nudges. It’s written in the way they follow you from room to room, or in the sigh they let out when they finally settle at your feet.
Writing the Letter
Imagine their letter taking shape.
- The Salutation: Your pet’s letter would likely begin with “Dear You” or something more tender, like “To the One Who Changed My Life,” or perhaps, “To My Favorite Human.”
- The Introduction: In their opening lines, they would recall the warmth of belonging. For a cat, it might be the day she chose you as “hers.” For a dog, it could be the thrill of bounding into your arms after adoption. The introduction would set the stage with gratitude and might sound like: “I don’t have the words you use, but I feel everything. This is my attempt to tell you what’s in my heart.”
- The Body: They would continue the letter noting meaningful actions and gestures:
- Morning greetings: When they leap onto your bed or tap your hand with a paw, that’s their way of saying, “I’m glad you’re here.”
- During walks and playtime. The excitement in a game of fetch, the joy of sniffing every tree, would be them telling you, “Life is so much richer with you by my side.”
- Quiet evenings: When they rest their head on your lap or settle nearby in silence, would be them whispering: “I feel safe with you. You are my comfort. My world.”
- The Deeper Verses: The letter continues in subtle, powerful verses.” In the cat who curls up beside you when you’re unwell, whispering, “You’re not alone.” In the dog who waits patiently by the door, no matter how long you’re gone saying, “I’ll be here when your return.” In the eyes that search your face, not asking for food or toys, just checking in, asking, “Are you okay? I’m here.”
- The Conclusion: The letter would not end with a big proclamation. Just a steady, quiet expression: “Thank you for everything. I love you more than you’ll ever know.”
The beauty of your pet’s letter is that it’s never finished, never sealed in an envelope. It is rewritten daily, in fresh ink made of glances, paws, wags, and stretches beside you. It is in the wag of a tail when you say their name, in the forgiveness they offer without hesitation, and in the joy that bursts forth when you return.
And if, for a moment, we were to put their heart into human words, their love letter might read like this:
To My Favorite Human
I don’t have the words you use,
but I feel everything.
This is my attempt
to tell you what’s in my heart.
I’m glad you’re here.
Life has so much meaning with you.
I feel safe with you
you are my comfort, my world.
You’re never alone.
I’ll always be here.
I’ll be here even when you are not okay.
Thank you for everything.
I love you more than you’ll ever know.
With love from,
Did you miss Part 1 -3 of this series? No worries! They’re still available here: If Your Pet Could Speak – Part 1: I want to fit in, but please don’t rush me; here: If Your Pet Could Speak – Part 2: I’m FeLV+ but please don’t count me out, and here: If Your Pet Could Speak – Part 3: Keep me safe, but please don’t make it boring.
September 7, 2025 @ 11:30 am – 1:30 pm
Come watch some silly cat videos for a good cause!
The world’s #1 cat video festival is back with screenings in theaters across the USA and around the world! Oscilloscope Laboratories presents CATVIDEOFEST 2025, a compilation of the latest and best cat videos culled from countless hours of unique submissions and sourced animations, music videos, and classic internet powerhouses.
Each year across the country, local theaters partner with nearby cat-focused charities, animal welfare associations, and shelters alike. A portion of ticket proceeds from every show goes directly to the Humane Society of Loudoun County to help local cats in need. HSLC will also be bringing adoptable cats to Alamo’s lobby on Saturday and Sunday, September 6 and 7 (note slightly different times).
Buy tickets: Alamo Drafthouse Cinema
Related Events
August 1, 2025 @ 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
The Humane Society of Loudoun County will be bringing adoptable cats to Leesburg First Friday on August 1. Be sure to come inside and see the kitties up close and in purr-son at Coldwell Banker Realty!