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As we reflect on the past year, we are grateful for the heartwarming stories of adoptions, recoveries and second chances that have been made possible through the dedication of our incredible community. We are wishing you a joyous holiday season filled with warmth and wagging tails!
 Giving Tree at Our Shelter Campuses
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Looking for a way to support our shelter pets this holiday season? Stop by our Michael R Frey Campus or Lorton Campus to purchase an item from our Giving Tree! Each ornament features one of our adoptable pets on the front and an essential item on the back, along with a QR code for easy access to the listing on Amazon. Every purchase provides much-needed supplies for our dogs, cats and small animals!
If you are unable to visit in person, you can also purchase an item directly from our Amazon wish lists: Michael R Frey Amazon Wish List and Lorton Campus Amazon Wish List.
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From Virginia to Guantanamo Bay: Bringing Essential Services to Cats Near and Far
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Two members of our team traveled to the U.S. Naval Station Guantanamo Bay where they provided vital veterinary services to nearly 200 cats through Operation Git-Meow!
An experienced member of our animal care team, deployed to the area as a U.S. Army Reservist, identified the opportunity to share our organization's expertise in veterinary care, alongside our partner, Pender Veterinary Centre. These services are crucial for improving the health and well-being of the local animal population.
We worked with Wings of Rescue to fly 15 cats to Virginia for adoption, and we welcomed them to our Lorton Campus. They were all quickly adopted into loving homes!
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Helped by Friends of Fairfax County Animal Shelter: Spotlight on Nonny
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Kind-hearted and gentle Nonny arrived in our care as a stray in rough shape. She had a painful hot spot on her back and needed surgery for a mammary tumor.
Our nonprofit fundraising partner, Friends of Fairfax County Animal Shelter, generously provided the funding she needed for the surgery. She had a successful operation and a speedy recovery, surrounded by lots of snuggles and care from our dedicated staff and volunteers. We also treated the hot spot on her back and quickly started to see signs of healing and hair regrowth.
During our recent Empty the Shelters adoption event, Nonny's adoptive family visited our shelter and instantly fell in love with her sweet disposition! We are grateful to Friends of Fairfax County Animal Shelter for making stories like Nonny’s possible.
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Keeping People and Pets Together: Bambi and Angel
When the cost of annual vaccinations for Bambi, a one-year-old Chihuahua, was out of reach for her mom, Angel, she thought she was going to have to surrender her beloved companion.
Thankfully, our Pet Resource Center was there to provide Bambi with the vaccinations she needed at no cost, and her mom was overwhelmed with gratitude. We also gave Angel essential items from our pet pantry, including food, toys and a bed. Now, Bambi is continuing to spend her days right where she belongs - cuddled in Angel’s arms!
Through our Pet Resource Center services, we are increasing pet retention and deterring unnecessary pet surrender. By helping pets like Bambi, we are keeping more family units whole.
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Five Things You Might Not Know About Guinea Pigs
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There are so many reasons to love these small, potato-shaped companions! If you're interested in adding a guinea pig (or two) to your family, visit our website to see our small animals' adoption profiles.
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They recognize their favorite people. It is not uncommon for them to make high-pitched squealing noises when they see their favorite person enter the room (or when they hear their food being prepared).
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Hay is an important part of their diet. Roughly 70% to 80% of their diet is hay, and continuously eating it, along with chew toys, helps prevent their teeth from overgrowing
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They are social creatures. Guinea pigs are herd animals who establish strong bonds with their cage mates. Due to their social nature, we recommend keeping them in pairs or small groups!
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You can teach them tricks. Whether it is coming when called, jumping through hoops, giving kisses or spinning in a circle, guinea pigs are motivated learners!
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Many guinea pigs sleep with their eyes open. Since guinea pigs are prey animals, they typically sleep with their eyes open and take small naps throughout the day and night. While sleeping, one part of their brain is dormant and the other stays alert for potential threats.
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Upcoming Events
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Friends of Fairfax County Animal Shelter's Winter Silent Auction
There is something for everyone on the Friends of Fairfax County Animal Shelter's Winter Silent Auction! The virtual bidding begins Friday, Dec. 8 at noon and ends Wednesday, Dec. 13 at 4 p.m. Learn more.
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Reading Tails
Kids can pick their favorite story and read to a dog, cat, rabbit, guinea pig or even a parakeet! Registration is required. For more information and available dates, visit our website.
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Vaccine and Microchip Clinics
Fairfax County Animal Shelter offers Fairfax County residents the opportunity to have their pet vaccinated or microchipped without the cost of a veterinary exam. Learn more about vaccine and microchip clinics on our website.
Upcoming Clinics:
Thursday, Dec. 14, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.
8875 Lorton Road, Lorton, VA 22079
Friday, Jan. 5, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.
4500 West Ox Road, Fairfax, VA 22030
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Optimizing Health With a Plant-Based Lifestyle: A Free Two-Part Educational Series
Join us for a free two-part series on plant-based living with Gwyn Whittaker, CEO of GreenFare Organic Café, and an Executive Producer of The Game Changers.
Part I: Optimizing Health for Humans With a Plant-Based Lifestyle
A journey to health: learn why and how to optimize your health and well-being through a nutritional intervention. Register here.
Wednesday, Jan. 17, 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.
4500 West Ox Road., Fairfax, VA 22030
Part II: Optimizing Health for Your Pup With a Plant-Based Lifestyle
Learn how to improve your dog's skin, energy and well-being with meal prep of organic, fresh plant foods to boost your dog's lifespan. Register here.
Wednesday, Jan. 24, 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.
4500 West Ox Road., Fairfax, VA 22030
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