I recently received a tour of the Virginia Beach SPCA, guided by the organization’s CEO and president, Dia DuVernet.
The Holland Road building includes a shelter, a medical clinic and a wildlife rehabilitation center, where I met several crows – one of which has been trained to say “hi” to visitors.
Dia and her employees greeted me with smiles and passionately talked about their work, which that day included spaying and neutering several pets, as well as caring for an injured shorebird.
My tour included a stop at the Pet Supplies & Adoption Center in Providence Square Shopping Center. The atmosphere was nothing like a shelter or a mall pet store. There were no ill-looking puppies, nasty smells or over-stocked shelves. Instead, there was a decidedly neighborhood feel. People waiting for takeout at nearby restaurants often stop by while waiting for their orders, as do shoppers at the neighboring grocery store, said Alexis Ince, adoption counselor and sales associate.
Our conversation turned to my cat Missy, who is always meowing for food. Alexis showed me toys designed to reward pets with a treat for using their muscles and minds during playtime.
I bought two toys with canisters designed to drop treats if a cat or dog rolls them around. So far, Missy hasn’t figured out how the toys work. Or, maybe she’s playing dumb.
A few days after my visit, I called Alexis to get advice. She offered plenty.
“I have two dogs, and I foster cats and dogs,” she said. “I see all the experiences people may have in their own homes with adopted animals.”
Alexis uses that expertise to suggest chew toys, leashes and other products that deter behavioral problems. Her goal: Prevent pet owners from giving up and returning animals to a shelter.
Missy is safe. Alexis spent about 15 minutes on the phone with me, suggesting ways to get my feline to buy into the idea of working for her food. I can’t wait to try them out.
For more information on the Pet Supplies & Adoption Center, call 757-427-0071.
David Schleck edits the Beacon section of The Virginian-Pilot, which covers community news in Virginia Beach. Reach him at 757-222-5108, david.schleck@pilotonline.com.
David Schleck edits the Beacon section of The Virginian-Pilot, which covers community news in Virginia Beach. Reach him at 757-222-5108, david.schleck@pilotonline.com.
