M-F 6:30AM- 7:30PM SAT 9AM - 5PM SUN 10AM - 12PM 4PM - 6PM (no playcare) Come in anytime for a tour
It’s been a long month for the Eagan family. In the beginning of September, I lost my brother, Shawn Barone. He battled illness for a long time and it was finally his time on September 3rd. He was 59. For more about him and our relationship, please read the October issue of Growing Up in the Valley.
Our family also said goodbye to our two cats of seventeen years, Pinchy and Crusher. Crusher passed away on September 9th and Pinchy, his sister, passed away as this magazine was going to print on October 1st.
Pinchy and Crusher were with my wife and me since shortly after we were married. They were our first pets together and they were there when our daughters entered the world. Pinchy quickly became Anika’s cat as she followed her around and sat with her for hours.
Publisher’s Note
Our family is devastated at the loss of our pets and from the sorrow that we feel, it is clear that they were a big part of our family.
Their passing has led us to strive to attempt to make our dogs lives healthier so that they can live a long healthy life just as Pinchy and Crusher did.
In this issue, read up on how dog breath could be a sign of health problems for your furry family member. If you are more of a cat person, check out tips on how to make adopting a cat smooth.
Thanks for reading!
The Eagans
Andrea, Josh, Anika and Evelyn
Publishers • Josh & Andrea Eagan josh@virginiafamily.com • Anika and Evelyn’s Parents
Creative Director • Tracy Fisher tracy@virginiafamily.com • Charlotte and Evelyn’s Mom
Sales Executive • Lisa Bowers lisa@virginiafamily.com • Noah’s Mom
Sales Assistants • Ani & Evie Eagan sales@virginiafamily.com • Bauer and Chloe’s Owners
Community Relations • Jeanne Lawrence jeanne@virginiafamily.com • Parker and Connor’s Mom
Copy Editor • Jacqueline Moon jacqueline@virginiafamily.com • Elijah’s Mom, and Luke and Blair’s Stepmom
Web Master • Johh Morris • COV Designs john@covdesigns.com
Share your story ideas with us by emailing jacqueline@virginiafamily.com
Pinchy on left, Crusher on right
6 Ask an Expert
Off Leash k9 Training lets us know if you really can teach an old dog new tricks!
12 Horse Therapy
Healing Strides is a beloved local charity that strives to work with children and adults of all skill levels.
19 Holiday Pet Gift Guide
Fido and Snowball deserve a winter treat too!
8 Bad Breath Blues
That stinky dog breath may be hiding serious health problems.
16 Adding a Feline to Your Family
Adotping a cat is a big deal! Here are some tips to make the process smoother for you and the cat.
24 Mobile Vet Clinic
Roanoke Valley SPCA comes to YOU and provides basic veterinary services to your furry friends.
20 Traveling with Your Pet
Holidays can mean a lot of traveling for some people, does it always make sense to board your furry family members?
27 Pet Resources
Need to find a new vet near you or doggy daycare for the new year? We’ve got you covered!
22 Mountain View Humane
Learn about the organization serving Christiansburg since 2010!
On the Cover
Louis Berry, Age 9
West Highland White Terrier Owner: Trever Berry
Photo by Josh Eagan
Want YOUR pet on the cover? Send photos to tracy@virginiafamily.com
Ask an Expert Dog Training
OffLeash K9 Training
How many pets do you have?
My husband and I have 3 male dogs that we rescued. Blake, 7-year-old Anatolian Shepherd; Clay, 7-yearold Vizsla mix and Dixon, 5-yearold Catahoula mix.
What was your dream pet as a child?
I had an amazing Dalmatian when I was 16 years old. She was my dream pet and lived until almost 15 years old. She lived with me while I attended Virginia Tech.
How long have you been training dogs?
I opened this Off Leash K9 Training location in November 2015 and we have been actively training since March 2016. The original Off Leash K9 Training was founded and opened in Northern Virginia in 2011. Locally, we have a facility in Christiansburg and one in Vinton. We have seven trainers and have a new trainer scheduled to start in November.
How did you start training dogs?
All three of our dogs completed the 2 week Board and Train Program with the Northern VA location in 2011. We were so amazed with the results that we wanted to bring this form of training to the New River and Roanoke Valleys. I love being able to share my experiences with customers as a previous client and now owner of this location. We have seven full time trainers. All of our trainers complete a rigorous certification program offered by Off Leash K9 Training prior to training with us.
Which skills are taught first?
We focus on basic obedience with our clients initially. Sit, Come, Down, Heel are some of the most recognizable basic commands we offer. Once the basics are mastered then we begin introducing distractions and distance into the mix. We want to ensure that the dog can perform regardless of the situation or environment. Practical training for real life situations.
What skills can be taught at home, which ones need expert assistance?
Most skills can be taught at home but many dog owners do not know how to effectively communicate with their dog for the desired results. Consequently, they seek our advice in that arena. We provide the tools they need to mold their pup into an obedient and confident companion.
What age is the best to start training your pup?
Training is a lifetime activity. You can begin introducing your puppy to simple commands at 7-8 weeks of age or whenever you bring it home. However, they have a short attention span, so sessions should be brief and occur daily. While there are differing opinions in the dog training world, we recommend “formal” training be delayed until 5 months of age.
Is there any truth to “Can’t teach an old dog new tricks”?
In our opinion, this is false. We work with older dogs all the time. As long as they do not have health or mobility issues that restrict their ability to complete training, they are very successful in our programs.
Are there any breeds that train “better” than others?
Every dog learns differently, even those of the same breed. Training is should not be viewed as a “quick-fix” to obedience of behavioral issues. Time and repetition equate to successful training outcomes.
Owners on the opposite end of the spectrum should look for a dog that requires less exercise and is satisfied providing companionship in less physically demanding ways.
Once trained, can a dog “lose” a previously learned skill?
Just like an athlete, dogs need to “practice” their obedience to stay on track. We encourage clients to build practice and reinforcement into their daily lives. Consistency and persistence are also key to any successful obedience program.
dog’s adrenaline and allows him to focus on staying in the “Place” command, and work through any issues, rather than excessively barking, jumping on guests, begging for food, or acting destructive. We are redirecting the dog’s energy from a negative, problematic state to a positive, calm state, which will allow him to make better choices.
What advice would you give a first-time pet owner who’s furry friend has a bad habit they can’t seem to shake?
What’s the difference between a well-trained dog and a service animal?
A service dog should be a welltrained dog but not every welltrained dog is a service dog. By definition, a service dog is a dog trained to do specific tasks for a person that he or she cannot do because of a disability. There may not be a need for a well-trained dog to perform a task for its owner if they do not have a disability nor may the dog have the ability to do so.
Task-related training is very specific to the owner and need.
If you could only teach one skill to a dog, which skill would you choose?
Seek professional assistance. We can help you build a better relationship by teaching you to better communicate with your dog.
If you could leave us with one last piece of advice, what would it be?
What breed (or temperament) would you suggest for a first-time pet owner?
We always suggest finding a dog that fits the owner’s lifestyle. Active owners are a perfect fit for dogs that require lots of exercise and mental stimulation.
The “Place” command is the most powerful command you can teach him. “Place” means go settle down on a defined area, whether it be a dog bed, small mat, or rug. “Place” allows you to include your dog while keeping him under control. When we are putting a dog into “Place”, it lowers the
Investing in a dog trainer that is there to help serve the relationship you have with your dog for the rest of its lifetime is an incredibly important decision because the results should be life altering, for not only your dog, but also you, as the leader. The relationship you build with your dog should be respectful, ever evolving, peaceful and solid, which requires clear communication, awareness, patience, time and dedication. It should never be about credentials, the amount of time it takes or the rate. It’s about how well your trainer can integrate your dog smoothly into your life, using a balanced approach.
Bad Breath Blues
Why Fido’s Bad Breath Could Be a Sign of More Serious Problems
Article by Dr. Courtney Wiegard
We love our four-legged children almost as much as we love our human family members. Some of us may admit that we actually love our animals more than certain family members. We love how our pets greet us eagerly when we return home. We love their wagging tails, the soft purring, and the adoring looks from those soulful eyes. But what we don’t enjoy is the foul odor emanating from their mouths during sloppy wet kisses.
Why does Fido’s breath smell?
Halitosis is most often caused by a buildup of bacteria in the mouth because of gum disease, food, or plaque.
This foul odor is called “halitosis” and is caused by bacteria associated with plaque and tarter build-up on the teeth and gums. The very same periodontal disease process that humans experience also occurs in our animals. While we faithfully perform our daily brushing, flossing and rinsing routine, rarely do we practice daily dental care for our pets. Veterinary wellness care has largely focused on vaccines and parasite control, yet we have
ignored what hides underneath those slobbery lips. And what may be lurking there undetected could dramatically shorten your pet’s life. Imagine what your mouth would be like if you went only a few days without brushing. Now imagine refraining from brushing or flossing for the entire lifespan of your animal. Add to the mix retrieving dirty tennis balls, swimming in the lake, licking private areas and eating stinky treats from the backyard. Yuck.
It is important to remember that our animal companions have a “pack mentality” and may endure significant pain and discomfort without showing their beloved
human (or pack leader) any outward signs. They may subtly chew their food on only one side or take a little longer to finish that bowl of kibble. They may seem tired or distant or “seem to be showing their age.” These could be warning signs of fractured, diseased or abscessed teeth. If you have experienced any of these conditions, you know how horrible tooth disease can be. Remember that Fido cannot tell you that he is in pain. He is looking to you to be his spokesperson.
Tooth and gum disease in dogs and cats is linked to an increase in heart, liver, kidney and joint disease. Diseased teeth are a source of chronic pain or even chronic cough in animals. Take
a moment to lift up Fido’s lips and look beyond the front row of incisors to the premolars and molars, and check for discoloration, swollen gums or foul odor. Your veterinarian can stage your pet’s periodontal disease, discuss treatment options, and help set a course for preventative care. Veterinarians know that your pets are members of your family and will treat them accordingly. During a dental check up, your pets will receive a full preoperative work-up, including a physical exam and preoperative blood work. General anesthesia can sound very scary. While Fido receives his dental cleaning and any related procedures, your Veterinarian will take precautions to protect your animal, including
providing intravenous fluids and using state of the art monitoring equipment. Most veterinary hospitals have dental x-ray and state of the art dental equipment to do oral surgery, extractions and professional cleanings. Twothirds of canine and feline teeth are below the gum line and can only be properly evaluated by dental radiography. Dental x-rays can reveal periodontal conditions that we cannot diagnose with visual examination alone. Dental x-rays also allow veterinarians to ensure that each tooth has been completely removed.
Pain management is also a top priority to ensure Fido’s comfort before, during and after any dental procedures. Local pain control as well as antiinflammatories and other pain medicine can be used to help Fido recover from dental procedures. Imagine undergoing a root canal or extraction without the benefit of anesthetics! Not for my babies! You must do your part so Fido doesn’t have to go through this again! Cleaning and extracting are where the veterinary work ends and yours, as caregivers begins.
Ok, so maybe he won’t let you brush those teeth every day. Don’t get your fingers bitten. Other preventative care options include dental chews, special antimicrobial mouth rinse, prescription dental food or enzymatic water additives. It is that easy. Your veterinary is here to help you keep your fourlegged, fur-covered child with you as long as possible. Ask your veterinarian to help you with a preventative dental plan for Fido today.
Courtney Wiegard is a veterinarian at Vinton Veterinary Hospital.
5. How do you make yourself feel better after a bad day?
A) Chocolate bar and cheesy movies
B) Bubblebath and a good book
C) Gardening
D) Massage
6. What’s your favorite color?
A) Blue B) Red
C) Yellow
D) Black
7. What’s your favorite way to exercise?
A) Running
B) Yoga
C) Crossfit
D) Weight-lifting
8. Pick a drink!
A) Water
B) Milk
C) Apple Juice
D) Tomato Juice
9. It’s time to buy a present for your best friend- do you...
A) Plan for months a head of time and have it professionally wrapped
B) Grab a gift on the way to the party and forget to sign the card
C) Give them with an experience present rather than another item
D) Stuff $50 in an envelope.
10. Where do you volunteer?
A) Food Bank
B) Senior Center
C) Animal Rescue
D) Literacy Charity
Article by Tracy Fisher, photos provided by Healing Strides of Virignia
Horse Therapy
It all began with a mom. a mom who had twins with ceberal palsy and horses and wanted to make a difference.
Healing Strides of Viginia was founded in 1991, originally under the name Roanoke Valley Therapeutic Riding Program. It was a mobile program, moving from location from location until 2001 when they were able to purchase 22 acres and develop their stables that we know today.
They changed their name in 2005 to Healing Strides of Virginia. Now, nearly 30 years later, have grown into the largest therapeutic riding/horsemanship program in the entire state.
The program is run with just 17 staff members and the dedication of their volunteers. In 2017 they had well over 11,000 volunteer hours!
Healing Strides serves children and adults throughout Roanoke and the surrounding counties. Their service focuses on those
with disabilitiescognitively, physicaly, and emotionally. They specialize in serving those who have complex disabilities. They have been accredited and certified by three national and international organizations which allow them the unique ability to work with those specific populations.
Carol Young of Healing Strides says “Healing Strides of VA specializes in working with amputees, people on the autism spectrum, and individuals suffering from post traumatic stress (disorder), cerebral palsy, amputees, emotional, domestic and other violent abuses. We work with people who have the desire to use therapy or a therapeutic environment to help them in their daily life. It is our honor to be trusted by our community to serve these wonderful people, many of whom have become our friends.”
“Being a part of Healing Strides has been an extraordinary experience. The horses and the people are amazing! This is my haven and everyone here is my family. Dewey, my partner, helps me as much as others and this is the best feeling ever! To say the least, my heart belongs to Healing Strides.”
- Anna Collette, participant
Learn how you can volunteer and support the efforts of Healing Strides of Virignia
HEALINGSTRIDESOFVA.ORG
Horses are not usually thought of when people imagine service animals, but when asked how these huge animals can be helpful and not terrifying to those they are supposed to be serving Carol Young explains, “Horses are amazing animals! They are a prey animal and therefore not necessarily hard to control in any situation... (humans) are the predators and we are the scary ones... Horses are large and can be scary, this is part of what makes this an amazing therapy. Confidence is built. Core strength and balance is established. Those are some very basic things that happen in the presence of a horse. There are several research articles that confirm the relationship between horses and humans as a very positive impact on physical, cognitive and emotional areas of our person.”
To recieve some of Healing Strides services, a doctor’s authorization is required. However, some of their programs can be utilized by those in need and Healing Strides’ on-staff mental health and educational professionals.
When asked for examples of great services, Carol Young was all a flutter. “If (people) only knew how riding helps a veteran come out of deep, dark places and into the light. How a child with autism connects with a horse and her life is changed. The healing, peace and wholeness that comes through therapy and healthy relationships.
Our staff experiences moments like these every day. These are the powerful moments of grace:
• Seeing a horse and a child connect and make eye contact. • Hearing that child say “I love you” for the first time.
• A child taking his first step, when some said he would never walk.
• A woman in hospice who fulfills her life-long dream of riding a horse.
• A Veteran who finds a place of peace - peace he has not felt for years and feels connected again.
We honor the tears that flow from love, healing pain, healing hurt, success, and the ability to feel again. What we do here on a daily basis is a gift each and every day. It takes any excuse you may have away when you see the beauty of these stories.”
Introducing a feline into the family can be an exciting time, but it’s important to remember that a new home is often a big change for a little cat. Whether it’s a kitten or an adult cat, providing your new pet with proper nutrition, the comforts of a good home and engaging playtime are just a few of the key things to keep in mind.
Try these simple tips from the experts at the Temptations brand to help ensure a smooth transition for your new four-legged family member.
Cat-Proof the House
In addition to being constantly curious, cats are also instinctive climbers, meaning no surface is out of reach for your new pet. Make sure any potentially dangerous items - such as wires, cleaning supplies and sharp objects - are behind closed doors and inaccessible to your little climber. You can also provide a scratching post to help prevent your cat from scratching unwanted things, like your furniture.
Playtime is a Must
As little as 15-30 minutes of exercise and activity per day can help your cat stay energetic and in shape. Encourage your cat’s natural curiosity with engaging toys, such as a snack-toy that you can fill with treats and watch them entertain themselves by trying to knock the treats out of the toy and gobble them up. Playing together can also help strengthen the bond between owner and pet.
Create Some Comfort
Make your new friend truly feel like part of the family by giving him or her a personal spot in the house. A simple bed to call his own, a cat tree to view his new surroundings and some soft toys to play with are all it takes to provide the initial comfort to make your pet feel safe and welcome in a new home. For cats that prefer privacy when they’re not playing, a covered or hooded bed is a great option.
Fuel Your Feline
Taking care of your cat’s health starts with proper nutrition. Be sure to find a high-quality cat food that has recipes that are nutritionally tailored to meet the specialized needs of your cat. A brand like IAMS Cat Food fits
that bill and has dry and wet cat food options for all stages of life, from kitten to senior, as well as options to aid in oral care, hairball care, high protein, digestion and metabolism.
Offer Affection
Always remember to show your cat you care. Whether it’s a scratch behind the ear, a nice brushing or a sweet cuddle session, your cat can feel loved and safe, knowing he or she is in good, caring hands.
For more tips on taking care of a new kitten or cat, visit TemptationsTreats.com.
But, we do provide delivery to a pet cemetery. We also provide private cremation, urns, caskets and memorial products. We will pick up your pet from your home* or vet’s office,* provide a third party to open and close a grave and we offer pre-arrangements and grief support services as well.
We’re here so saying goodbye is a little easier.
Kitty Window Cat Bed
$29 at Chewy.com
Instantly turn any window into a kitty entertainment center with a Kitty Window Cat Bed. The convenient design attaches to any window in virtually seconds, using the proven suction cup mounting system for reassuring security. And with a half-pod, open design, it
gives your cat a full view of the world outside and inside, while offering a safe and secure spot to lay. And when he’s ready to take a break from watching over the world, the included soft, warm, and cushy pad will give him hours of comfortable snoozing.
The Pet Play World Treat Ball is a fun rendition of a slow feed bowl that promotes a healthy lifestyle for your pet. You can put a portion of your dog’s meal in the
level using the
This toy promotes active feeding, giving your dogs the
they need and then rewarding them for it!
Traveling with your pet during the holidays
If your holiday plans are on hold until you can make arrangements for your four-legged friend, a solution may be closer than you think. Pet-friendly accommodations can be easier to find than ever, making it possible to simply take your pet along for the ride.
According to a survey by travel website Orbitz, almost one-third of pet parents say they skipped a trip to stay home with their pet. In fact, 40% of survey respondents said they would travel more often if they had convenient, affordable pet sitting or boarding.
If you can’t find someone to watch over your furry friend, or you just don’t want to, rely on these tips to travel with your pet in tow.
Opt for Travel by Car
Although several airlines now offer pet-friendly fares, traveling by car is often less expensive and allows you to keep your pet with you at all times. That puts you in control of necessities like food and restroom breaks and lets you create a comfy resting place for your pet to snooze while on the road.
Seek Pet-Friendly Destinations
According to the survey, Los Angeles, Phoenix, Washington D.C., Chicago and Houston top the United States for locations with the most pet-friendly hotels.
Travel websites make it easy to find hotels that will happily accommodate your pet. For example, Orbitz allows users to book airfare, car rentals, tours and activities, as well as searching for pet-friendly hotels. As an added benefit, members of the rewards program can earn rewards instantly
to book hotels for them and their furry friends.
Consider Nearby Attractions
Not only is a pet-friendly hotel a necessity, you’ll also need to consider local attractions. A dog is likely to appreciate nearby parks and lakes for exercise and fresh air, but there may also be pet-friendly restaurants and venues in the city you choose to visit.
Pay Attention to Reviews
Fellow travelers have become one of the most valuable resources in contemporary travel. Their insight often helps set realistic expectations. Reading reviews and learning from others’ experiences then adjusting your plans accordingly prior to your trip can help you plan a rewarding vacation for both you and your pet.
Take Time to Call Ahead
Even pet-friendly facilities have specific guidelines and expectations, so it’s a good idea to call ahead to ensure everyone is on the same page. This also allows you to inquire about the availability of special amenities you may require, such as a litter box for a feline traveling companion.
Plan your next trip and find more pet-friendly travel resources at Orbitz.com.
30% of
pet
parents say they’ve skipped a trip in order to stay home with their pet.
37% of people travel
with their
pet over 90% of
those who travel with their pet, do so with their car.
only 2% use air travel options. 40% of those who travel with pets stay in a pet friendly hotel. 14% use a vacation rental service such as Air BnB.
Mountain View Humane serving Christiansburg since 2010
Mountain View Humane opened in 2010 to operate the Waldron-Ricci Spay Neuter Clinic in Christiansburg and has performed nearly 63,000 surgeries as of mid-September. Spay/neuter is a simple solution to the complex problem of the euthanasia epidemic, which destroys 4 million animals each year and is a direct result of animals left unaltered in communities. By providing a high-quality, affordable option for the surrounding communities of southwestern Virginia and southern West Virginia, Mountain View Humane stays true to its mission of working to create a community where there are no homeless cats or dogs.
Mountain View Humane supports their mission through the implementation of its values, such as “We maintain the highest levels of veterinary care and customer service” and “We are a compassionate, collaborative,
and forward-thinking organization dedicated to the humane and ethical treatment of animals.” They also offer free feral cat trap rentals for people to humanely trap feral cats in order to receive spay/neuter surgery before returning them to their colonies.
“These people are super friendly and do an absolutely stellar job. Professional and very informative of how to care for my newly neutered cat. Thank you for all you do!” - Aaron J.
They also strive to provide humane education on the benefits of aggressive spay and neuter programs. This is accomplished by providing to both youth and adult groups clinic tours where a live surgery may be observed and education on the health and
behavior benefits of spay/neuter. In addition, presentations are available off site to businesses and agencies throughout the New River Valley.
Located in Christiansburg, Mountain View Humane’s location has made it easy for people to drop off and pick up their pets on the way to work. They also have a FREE transportation service that travels to different cities and counties outside of Christiansburg, including West Virginia, on scheduled days to pick up pets and return them the same day. For those interested in this service, Mountain View Humane has instructions and a schedule on their website.
In addition to the spay/neuter surgeries, Mountain View Humane also hosts periodic vaccination clinics. These clinics allow the community to schedule appointments for the pets to
receive vaccinations at a lower price. “Vaccinations are integral for the health and safety of both your pets and your community. We want to ensure that everyone has access to these services, especially loving pet owners who are unable to afford this necessary annual care”, said Mountain View Humane’s Executive Director Sylvie Peterson about the vaccination clinics.
While Mountain View Humane already provides low cost spay/neuter surgeries for pets in the New River Valley, they understand sometimes people need a little bit more help. For this reason, Mountain View Humane offers financial aid for those who need assistance with the cost of care. A Financial Aid Application is available online, and once completed, the staff will review it and let customers know how much of the surgery is covered. To be able to offer financial assistance,
Mountain View Humane applies for grants and receives donations from the community for their Spay It Forward Fund. Just like the Pay It Forward train you might find in a coffee line, Spay It Forward works in the same way. For those individuals who have appreciated the care and love provided by Mountain View Humane’s staff and volunteers, they can donate to help the next pet owner afford the services for their pets.
There are many other ways to help Mountain View Humane. One way is to volunteer in their clinic and at community/special events. These events help to spread the word about their service out into the community so people become aware of what they have to offer, as well as to help support the spay/neuter program. They have a wish list on their website filled with items regularly used at Mountain View Humane with a link to
order directly from Amazon. Another way would be to hold a Supply Drive with your business, church, or any group. Mountain View Humane is also part of the Kroger Community Rewards and Amazon Smiles Programs. For these programs, all you have to do is register your Kroger Plus Card with their number (AL047) or select their name as your selected charity on Amazon and then shop. Mountain View Humane also welcomes Facebook Birthday Fundraisers where you can raise funds for them through your social media contacts. It’s fundraising made simple.
For anyone needing additional information regarding their spay and neuter surgeries, preventative care services, vaccination clinics, and available subsidies or financial aid, information may be found on the Mountain View Humane website at www.mvhclinic.org, by calling (540) 382-0222, or by emailing info@ mvhclinic.org.
“Did
- Luke V.
Mobile Vet Care Brings Health to your pet at home!
On the brisk winter morning of February 13th, the Roanoke Valley SPCA’s veterinary staff drove their 36 foot Spay & Neuter Mobile Clinic to the Belmont Baptist Church to hold their first day of public surgeries. That Tuesday, the mobile clinic successfully spayed and neutered a variety of cats, kittens, dogs and puppies as well as vaccinated, examined, and even trimmed their nails before sending them back home to their families. In its first five months, the clinic was able to hold 17 public days and serve more than 150 pets in the Roanoke Valley and the surrounding areas.
“We [The Roanoke Valley SPCA’s mobile clinic staff] strive to help provide low cost veterinary services, such as spays, neuters and yearly vaccines, closer to homes all over the community. This keeps animals out of the shelters and also keeps dogs and cats from having multiple litters a year” says Amanda Charsha-Lindsey, Mobile Clinic & Community Animal Support Services Program Coordinator. Charsha-Lindsey not only schedules
public dates for the clinic each month, parking at businesses and churches all over the Roanoke Valley, but also works with Corey Ramsey, the shelter’s Humane Education & Outreach Coordinator, to bring the clinic to local events where attendees can enter and explore the unit.
“I love seeing the expressions of young ones when they step onto the clinic, this is where their curiosity can shine. I explain the clinic to children as a traveling doctor’s office for your pets! Allowing the public in presents a great opportunity for both adults and children to talk about their pets and their love for animals. From there we can discuss proper care for animals as well as the importance of spaying and neutering.” Ramsey also mentioned that visitors are impressed by how much can truly fit inside of this relatively small space and the flexibility that this mobile clinic can offer from a medical aspect.
Charsha-Lindsey has been sure to include that though the clinic
can offer a lot, there are still some size restrictions. “We unfortunately cannot fit long legged, or really large breeds such as greyhounds, great pyrenees, mastiffs, etc.” She has said that the animals must be at least 3 months, less than 9 years old and under 60 lbs. “I would be happy to refer anyone with a larger dog to another low cost spay and neuter clinic with a bigger surgical area.” Charsha-Lindsey can be reached at (540) 339-9512 or mobileclinic@ rvspca.org for those interested in booking or that have any questions.
The Roanoke Valley SPCA has received positive feedback from clients that have scheduled a spay or neuter surgery for their furry friend on the mobile clinic. One client shared, “I had an excellent experience! I found the staff to be knowledgeable and easy to talk to. They walked me through the planned procedures and I felt very comfortable leaving my cat in their care all day long.” Another client raved, “I really enjoyed the ease of this entire process. The booking was quick, the drop off
was simple and the pickup was fantastic and informative! It was a great experience for both me and my puppy overall.”
“The mobile spay/neuter clinic is the next programmatic development to combat pet homelessness by the Roanoke Valley SPCA through the power of Adoption, Intervention and Prevention. Specifically the mobile clinic prevents unwanted litters from winding up in our local shelters.” shared C. Denise Hayes, CEO of the Roanoke Valley SPCA. This clinic has presented many opportunities for those that may not easily
have access to transportation. One gentleman excitedly told the shelter, “You [The Roanoke Valley SPCA] have found a way to bring the vet’s office to my neighborhood! This made everything so much easier for us, especially because Duke isn’t allowed to ride the bus with me to get to the vet’s office. This mobile clinic has made a world of difference in getting him the essential veterinary care that he needs!” It is not only easier for families in walking distance, but also convenient for individuals on their way to a busy workday. “Being able to drop Bella off before work and pick her up
after my normal work hours was an immense help, as I didn’t have to take any PTO to do so. The clinic was also parked in a location that I drive by every day so it was convenient for me to stop on my way into and when leaving the office.”
The Roanoke Valley SPCA’s mission is to create a community where there are no homeless cats or dogs through the power of adoption, prevention and intervention. The opportunity to share this mobile clinic with the Roanoke Valley has been allowing them to work further every day to reach their goal.
Pet Resource Directory
Veterinary & Medical Services
Angels of Assisi 415 Campbell Ave SW, Roanoke, VA, 24016 (540) 344-8707 angelsofassisi.org
Avian and Exotic Pet Clinic of Roanoke Tanglewood West 3959 Electric Rd, Ste 155 Roanoke, VA, 24018 (540) 989-4464 avianexoticpetclinic.com
Banfield Pet Hospital (inside PetSmart)
4749 Valley View Blvd NW Roanoke, VA, 24012 (540) 362-0199
Big Lick Vet 7777 Bent Mountain Rd, Roanoke, VA, 24018 (540) 776-0700 biglickvet.com
