"There’s so many good ones!! But my favorite has to be when the first baby from my foster group got adopted! I was able to be there and process the adoption, the family was so excited to add a new bunny to their home. They were so awesome to work with and the last update we got about Froggy, they say he is doing so well in his new home."
                                – Lindsay, Customer Care Representative

As winter settles in and chilly temperatures keep us indoors, it’s essential to keep our furry friends active and entertained! At the Fairfax County Animal Shelter, we love providing enriching activities that keep pets mentally stimulated, happy and healthy. Here are some engaging indoor games that can be enjoyed by dogs, cats and even small animals!

1. Interactive Toys: Interactive toys are a fantastic way to keep your pets engaged! For dogs, consider puzzle feeders that dispense treats as they work to figure them out. Cats can enjoy wand toys or treat-dispensing balls that encourage play and physical activity. Small animals, like hamsters and guinea pigs, can benefit from chew toys and mazes to explore. Always remember to use positive reinforcement; praise and treats work wonders to boost their confidence!
   
   
2. Hide-and-Seek: This classic game isn’t just for kids! For dogs, hide in a different room and call them to find you. Reward them with treats or toys when they succeed. Cats can join in too! Hide their favorite toy or some treats around the house and let them sniff it out. It’s a great way to engage their hunting instincts while providing a fun challenge.
   
   
3. Training Sessions: Winter is a great time to teach your pets new tricks! Use positive, reward-based methods to train them in fun ways—like learning to roll over, shake hands or even dance. Short, engaging training sessions can be a fantastic way to keep your pet mentally stimulated.

By incorporating these activities into your winter routine, you’ll help keep your pets happy, healthy, and active—no matter the weather outside! Remember, the key is to have fun and enjoy quality time together. Happy playing!

As winter settles in and the days grow colder, many people seek warmth and companionship. What better way to brighten up the season than by adopting a furry friend? At the Fairfax County Animal Shelter, we believe that adopting a pet during winter brings not only joy but also unique opportunities for bonding and establishing routines. Here’s why winter is a perfect time to bring a pet into your life, along with tips for getting started!

Establishing Routines Winter is an ideal time to establish routines with your new pet. Regular feeding schedules, indoor play sessions, and consistent training not only provide stability but also help your pet feel more secure in their new environment. Predictable routines allow your pet to know what to expect, reducing anxiety and promoting trust. These habits, built during the cozy indoor months, will last long after the snow melts, creating a foundation of structure and reliability that supports your pet’s overall well-being.

Quality Time for Training and Bonding With more time spent indoors, winter is an excellent opportunity for training and bonding with your new pet. The extra time at home allows you downtime to gently wave a felt wand toy to engage your shy cat or teach your furry friends a new trick. Using positive reinforcement methods for our animal learners turns training into a game and making training effective and fun for all.

Companionship With shorter days and colder weather keeping us indoors, winter can sometimes feel long and lonely. Adopting a pet provides much-needed companionship during these months. A dog curled up by your side or a cat purring in your lap can turn a chilly evening into a cozy experience. Research even shows that owning a pet significantly enhances mental well-being, especially during winter when Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) affects many people. A pet’s loving presence can help alleviate feelings of isolation and bring warmth into your home.

Creating a Calm Environment Winter’s weather slows down the hustle of warmer months. This calm atmosphere allows your new pet to adjust to their surroundings and settle in at their own pace, providing ample time to decompress. For smaller pets like rabbits, creating a cozy and bunny-proofed indoor habitat with plenty of safe toys, tunnels and blankets will help them explore comfortably and feel right at home.

By adopting a pet during winter, you’ll not only gain a loving companion but also have the chance to establish healthy habits and routines that will last for years to come. If you’re considering bringing a new pet into your life, now is the perfect time! The Fairfax County Animal Shelter has a variety of pets looking for loving homes, each ready to share their unique personalities with you.

For more information about adopting, visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/animalshelter/adopt.

Zeus Marshmallow, a lively 3-year-old pup, came to the shelter full of energy but in need of some extra care. During his medical exam, our team discovered he had a dead tooth that required extraction. Thanks to the Friends of the Fairfax County Animal Shelter, Zeus received a fully funded dental procedure, including an X-ray, cleaning, and the extraction he needed to stay healthy and happy.

After his dental procedure, Zeus bounced back quickly, ready to meet his future family. This playful and affectionate dog is now available for adoption, eagerly awaiting a home that matches his enthusiastic spirit.

The Friends of the Fairfax County Animal Shelter fund important medical treatments like Zeus’s dental care, ensuring pets receive the care they need. If you’d like to support life-changing services for animals in our community, visit www.ffcas.org to learn more or make a donation. Your support truly makes a difference!