National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week!
Every year, the first full week of November marks National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week—a dedicated time to honor the hard work and compassion of shelter staff nationwide, who tirelessly provide a safe and caring environment for pets in need. At the Fairfax County Animal Shelter, our team’s commitment shines through in everything they do, from supporting adopters to ensuring the well-being of each animal in their care. Their efforts make a meaningful impact, not only for animals in our care but also for people and pets throughout our community.
In celebration of this special week, we’re putting the spotlight on some of our incredible staff members from both the Lorton and Michael R. Frey Campuses. We asked a few fun questions to get to know them a little better and to showcase the unique personalities that make up our wonderful shelter team.
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Sallie, Animal Care Specialist
How long have you been with the Fairfax County Animal Shelter (FCAS)?
Since April, 2024
What do you enjoy most about your current role?
Seeing the animals enjoy the enrichment I pass out and when they get adopted into the perfect home.
What pets do you have or have you had before?
Dog, rat.
If you could be any animal, which would you choose to be?
A dolphin
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Stacy, Volunteer Program Coordinator
How long have you been with FCAS?
Almost 9 months
What do you enjoy most about your current role?
Seeing it grow.
What pets do you have or have you had before?
Dog, cat, chickens.
If you could be any animal, which would you choose to be?
I would want to be my mom's dog. Pretty sure she had a better life than most humans.
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David, Customer Care Specialist
How long have you been with FCAS?
1 year
What do you enjoy most about your current role?
I love being able to interact with all the animals we are caring for as well as be of service to them and our customers. This is a dream job for me because it unites two of my passions - animal welfare and being of service to my community.
What pets do you have or have you had before?
Currently I have 1 dog named Trini as well as 2 foster kittens named Duncan and Daphne. In the past I have had dogs and cats. My parents had horses growing up as well.
If you could be any animal, which would you choose to be?
I think I would like to be a bird because I would have the ability to fly and soar above the earth.
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Leesa, Admin Assistant
How long have you been with FCAS?
I started in May 2019 as a part-time [Administrative Assistant II], then in December 2023, I transitioned to full-time in my current role.
What do you enjoy most about your current role?
I enjoy data analysis, balancing all the numbers, and making documents look nice and functional. Also, I'm surrounded by animals which is the best thing ever.
What pets do you have or have you had before?
Dog, cat, rabbit, guinea pig, rats, and mice.
If you could be any animal, which one would you choose to be?
Dragon
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Whether they’re managing adoptions, caring for animals, coordinating volunteers, or ensuring smooth daily operations, each member of our staff brings something unique and invaluable to our shelter team. Join us in celebrating their hard work this week and showing appreciation for all they do year-round!
Keeping Your Pet Zen During the Holiday Hustle
The holiday season brings joy, but the extra activity can be stressful for pets. At the Fairfax County Animal Shelter, we’re here to provide tips to support your pet’s behavior and wellness, to keep them relaxed and comfortable:
Maintain Routine: Pets thrive on consistency, so try to stick to regular feeding, exercise, and enrichment schedules even amidst holiday events. For dogs, predictable walks can bring comfort, and for cats, keeping their mealtimes consistent helps reduce anxiety.
Create a Quiet Zone: Set up a cozy retreat where pets can escape the holiday chaos. A favorite bed or perch in a quiet room gives dogs and cats a calming space, while birds often feel more secure in a covered cage away from the action.
Provide Extra Exercise or Enrichment: A little extra activity can help pets relax. Take dogs on a longer walk or add in a game of fetch to help burn off extra energy. Cats enjoy interactive toys or scratching posts, and small animals like rabbits benefit from new chew toys to keep their minds occupied.
Mindful Decorating: Pets are curious about shiny things, so keep tinsel, lights, and low-hanging ornaments out of reach. For dogs and cats, secure the Christmas tree to prevent tipping, and avoid placing delicate items within their reach.
Gradual Guest Introductions: Holiday guests can be exciting or overwhelming, so let your pet meet new people at their own pace. Dogs often appreciate treats and calm introductions, while cats may feel better observing from a distance. For smaller pets, limiting handling can keep them relaxed.
Travel Smart: If you’re taking your pet with you, bring along some familiar items—a favorite blanket, toy, or perch cover—to make new environments feel a bit more like home. For small animals, a safe, enclosed travel space can help ease any anxiety.
And remember, your calm energy goes a long way! By staying relaxed, you’re helping your pet feel safe and comfortable, no matter how festive things get.
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Community Vaccine and Microchip Clinic Success!
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Earlier this month, the Fairfax County Animal Shelter's Pet Resource Center hosted a Vaccine and Microchip Clinic in the Hybla Valley community. An experienced team of shelter staff and volunteers, along with veterinary staff from Pender Veterinary Centre, joined together to help support pets and their families during this clinic. By the end of the two-hour event, 109 pets had received distemper vaccinations, rabies vaccinations, and microchips!
The weather was a little cool, and many dogs wore adorable sweaters or were wrapped in cozy blankets being held by their families while waiting to receive vaccinations and microchips. Most cats arrived nestled in carriers, though a few were proudly chauffeured in their own strollers. Supervisor Lusk, representing the Franconia District on the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, visited the clinic to talk with attendees and volunteers, and to say hello to many pets. It was heartwarming to meet so many wonderful pets and their loving families!
Learn more about our regularly scheduled Vaccine and Microchip Clinics on our Pet Resource Center webpage.
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Helped by the Friends of Fairfax County Animal Shelter: Spotlight on Sugar
Sugar, formerly known as Petunia, was brought to our shelter after being struck by a car, leaving her with severe injuries that required immediate intensive care and a lengthy hospital stay. Thankfully, the Friends of the Fairfax County Animal Shelter stepped in to fund her critical medical care, enabling her to receive expert treatment at Pender Veterinary Centre. Though she ultimately lost her left front leg, Sugar’s life was saved thanks to their support.
After her recovery, Sugar found her forever home, and her new dad couldn’t be happier! In an update, he shared: "Sugar is settling in wonderfully. She’s practically glued to me all the time (which I love!) and is as sweet as can be to everyone she meets. Despite her missing leg, she runs and plays with plenty of energy—though she does tire quickly. We’re so grateful she got a second chance and has become such a cherished part of our family."
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Upcoming Events
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Senior Pet Adoption Event
From November 22-24, adopt a senior pet (age 6+) with no adoption fee! Families who adopt during the event will also receive a $500 credit for bloodwork or other veterinary services at Pender Veterinary Centre, courtesy of the Friends of the Fairfax County Animal Shelter.
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Vaccine and Microchip Clinics
The Fairfax County Animal Shelter offers monthly low-cost vaccine and microchipping services for Fairfax County residents. Clinics are walk-up and there is no pre-registration or appointment required.
Upcoming Clinics:
Friday, Nov. 15, 9 to 11 a.m.
Fairfax County Animal Shelter Lorton Campus
8875 Lorton Road, Lorton, VA 22079
Monday, Dec. 2, 9 to 11 a.m.
Fairfax County Animal Shelter Michael R. Frey Campus
4500 West Ox Road, Fairfax, VA 22030
Learn More
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New Foster Information Sessions
Our foster volunteers give shelter pets extra attention and time outside the shelter, to recover from illness or injury, get a break from the shelter, and have time to grow and reach the two-month mark to be ready for adoption. Foster volunteers also take shelter dogs on walks outside the shelter grounds to give them a change of scenery and new smells through our Power Hour Program. If you’re interested in becoming a foster volunteer, attend an upcoming New Foster Information Session!
Thursday, Dec. 5, 5 p.m.
Fairfax County Animal Shelter Michael R. Frey Campus
4500 West Ox Road, Fairfax, VA 22030
Register
Tuesday, Dec. 10, 5 p.m.
Fairfax County Animal Shelter Lorton Campus
8875 Lorton Road, Lorton, VA 22079
Register
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