Home for the Holidays Campaign
This holiday season, we're on a mission to find homes for the pets who have been with us the longest—our true gems waiting for a chance to shine. These pets have so much love to give and are ready to start their new chapters. Meet three of our wonderful companions looking for their holiday miracles:
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Phoenix
A three-year-old, 48-pound bundle of loyalty and love, Phoenix is the ultimate comforter. Her past family adored her for being intuitive, playful, and always ready to snuggle. Phoenix thrives on close bonds with her people and would love to spend her days making someone feel as special as she is.
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Duke
Duke is a 12-year-old tabby with a big personality and lots to say! This regal gentleman will follow you around to chat, even in the bathroom. While independent, he enjoys lounging near his humans and indulging in head scratches—on his terms. Duke needs a special urinary diet and a pet-free home. Playful and affectionate in his own way, Duke is ready for a home.
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Luna Cherry Blossom
At 10-years-old and 65 pounds, Luna is a gentle soul with a heart full of love to give. She’s happiest on long walks, sniffing every scent, and soaking in the world around her. Luna adores her toys, cozy snuggles, and the simple joy of being close to her people. While she may take her time warming up, once she feels safe, she transforms into the most loyal, affectionate companion you could ask for.
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Adoption Auditions: A Tailored Match for You and Your Pet
Not sure if you're ready to commit? All of our dogs and select cats and small animals are eligible for our Adoption Audition program! This gives you a chance to welcome them into your home temporarily to ensure the fit is just right. It’s the perfect way to give an animal a break from the shelter while discovering if they’re your new best friend.
There are many more pets waiting to meet you! Stop by either our Michael R. Frey (West Ox) Campus or our Lorton Campus to learn about all the amazing animals who are part of the Home for the Holidays campaign.
5 New Year's Resolutions for Pet Guardians
As we get ready to welcome 2025, it’s the perfect time to reflect on how we can make life even better for our furry (or feathered!) friends. Even the most small, thoughtful changes can make a world of difference in your pet's happiness and well-being. Here are five ways to make 2025 a fantastic year for your pets:
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Ensure Proper Identification
Microchip your pet if you haven’t already, and keep your contact information up-to-date in the microchip registry. Losing a pet can be heartbreaking, but proper identification can help reunite you quickly.
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Stay Up-to-Date on Vaccinations
Keep your pet protected by maintaining regular vaccinations. Did you know that the Fairfax County Animal Shelter offers low-cost vaccination and microchip clinics throughout the year? Check out our schedule here.
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Teach a New Trick
Positive reinforcement training is a great way to bond with your pet while keeping their mind sharp. Make 2025 the year your dog learns a new trick or your cat masters puzzle toys! Bonus: small pets can learn, too! Try teaching your rabbit to hop through a hoop or your bird to mimic a fun sound.
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Practice Good Citizenship
Focus on polite leash walking and always clean up after your pet to keep our community safe and clean for everyone.
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Enrich Their Environment
Add something new to your pet’s living space—whether it’s a comfy bed for your dog, a climbing tree for your cat, or tunnels for your guinea pig. Carefully altered environments keep pets happy and engaged.
The holiday season is upon us, and with it comes the fun of decorating! However, as we transform our spaces into festive wonderlands, it's critical to consider the safety of our pets!
At the Fairfax County Animal Shelter, we want to help you ensure that your pets can enjoy the holiday spirit without any hazards. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind while decorating this season!
Keep Ornaments Out of Reach: Ornaments can be tempting for curious pets. Cats might see them as toys, while dogs might think they’re fun chewables! To prevent accidents, place ornaments high up on the tree or use pet-safe decorations. Consider unbreakable ornaments for added safety.
Be Wary of Holiday Plants: Certain holiday plants, such as poinsettias, mistletoe, and holly, can be toxic to pets. If you're decorating with these festive flora, ensure they’re placed well out of reach or opt for pet-safe plants instead.
Secure Cords and Lights: The twinkling lights that make the season bright can pose a risk if left unattended. Ensure that cords are tucked away and secured to prevent chewing. Consider using cord protectors to keep your pets safe from potential shocks!
Offer Safe Alternatives: This is a great time to provide your pets with toys or chews they can safely enjoy! Keeping them engaged with their own festive toys can help redirect their curiosity away from holiday decorations.
Make the Right Choice Easy for Them: The key to a safe holiday environment is to set your pets up for success. Consider using baby gates, extended exercise pens, or blocking access to rooms altogether to prevent them from reaching decorations that could be harmful.
By taking these precautions, you can create a festive atmosphere while ensuring your pets remain safe and sound. Enjoy the holidays, and may your celebrations be filled with joy—both for you and your beloved companions!
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Helped by the Friends of Fairfax County Animal Shelter: Spotlight on Felix the Kitten
Felix, a 5-month-old kitten, arrived at the shelter with his brother after being found as strays in rough shape. This tiny survivor required specialized surgery for a left-sided body hernia. Thanks to the generosity of the Friends of the Fairfax County Animal Shelter, Felix's surgery was fully funded, giving him the care he needed to heal.
Felix is currently in a wonderful foster home, recovering and regaining his playful energy. When he’s ready, he will return to the shelter to find his forever family.
If you’d like to learn more about helping pets like Felix, visit www.ffcas.org. Your support makes life-changing care possible!
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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, Dec. 13, 9 to 11 a.m.
Fairfax County Animal Shelter Lorton Campus
8875 Lorton Road, Lorton, VA 22079
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Beginning in 2025!
We will be hosting our Vaccine and Microchip Clinics at
Fairfax Center Fire Station 40
4621 Legato Road
Fairfax, VA 22030
Monday, Jan.13, 9 to 11 a.m.
Learn More About the Clinics
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