In January 2007, we announced that no healthy, homeless animal had lost his life in the City of Richmond during 2006, and we have maintained and grown upon that success, which has made this city one of the safest in the nation for homeless pets. Never again will a healthy orphaned dog or cat die in the City of Richmond for the lack of a home. Our community coalition with RAC&C is only the fourth in the nation to receive Maddie’s prestigious Lifesaving Award.

In making the award presentation, Maddie’s Fund President Rich Avanzino stated his foundation’s admiration for the Richmond SPCA. “We have watched the organization create some of the most innovative and effective pet retention, adoption, customer service and marketing programs of any animal shelter in the nation. These outstanding programs have allowed the Richmond SPCA to quickly place animals in loving homes and take more stray pets out of Richmond Animal Care & Control. At the same time, RAC&C has maintained an excellent adoption program of its own. The relationship between the two agencies is an incredibly successful model we hope others will follow.”

Joining Robin Starr, CEO of the Richmond SPCA, to speak about the partnership and the award were Richmond City Mayor Dwight C. Jones; and RAC&C Operations Manager Jody Jones. A combined grant of $230,200 accompanied the award, with $160,350 going to the Richmond SPCA and $69,850 to RAC&C. This recognition is for the agencies’ joint success in 2006 and 2007 and will make provisions for the future of orphaned animals at the city’s animal care and control division.

We first came to know Bruce in 2006. He was the President of Starboard Group, which owns many local Wendy’s restaurants, and he asked that we hold off-site adoptions and agility demonstrations at some of his restaurants and portions of proceeds from those October evenings were donated to the Richmond SPCA. Two years later, Bruce approached us about partnering again. He brought other members of the local Wendy’s franchise co-op together, and collectively, they became the Richmond SPCA’s adoption program partner. He believed deeply in pet adoption, and his dedication helped to unite thousands of families with new animal companions.

Bruce was invited to join our board of directors last fall and has been a frequent visitor to our humane center. He knew many of our staff by name and was the type of person who could easily brighten your day. Many times after a conversation with Bruce, someone was later overheard to say, “He may be the nicest man I’ve ever met.” He actually was the nicest man many of us have ever met.

Compassion, dedication and generosity will be Bruce’s legacy at the Richmond SPCA. We mourn his passing and remember all of the wonderful times we shared together.

No matter where you have gotten your new puppy, you cannot consider her completely protected against the virus until she has completed her immunizations at around sixteen weeks. Even then you can only be sure puppies have a protective immunity if you run a virus titer.  They should receive their first vaccinations by at least 8 weeks of age and even earlier if they are orphans (not receiving mother’s protective immunity through nursing).  They should then be vaccinated every 2-4 weeks until they are 16 weeks old.

Parvovirus is easily killed on objects that can be disinfected, but it can live in the environment for months.  It is easily transmitted by the feces of a dog that is shedding virus but who may look perfectly healthy.  Or the virus could have been left at the dog park or the pet store or any place a dog may have gone to the bathroom or walked through with feces on his paws.  That is why it is so important to tell the families of new puppies to not take them on outings until they have been fully vaccinated or have had their titer checked to assure immunity.

Oprah’s puppies were on her show around the first week of March, at which time they were only a little over 10 weeks of age.  I understand that the male puppy was not adopted until after the show where she introduced the female she had adopted earlier.  So far, only the two puppies that she adopted have come down with parvo. Although it is safe to say they likely contracted it after adoption, it also means that none of these puppies had protective immunity.  Once again they cannot get the virus if they are not put at risk of exposure.

I am sure the shelter where the puppies were adopted takes all the same precautions that we do here at the Richmond SPCA.  And unfortunately you can see that survival is not dependant on how much money you have.  Even a puppy with the best veterinary care money can buy may not survive the secondary infections and complications of the virus.

I believe that we are so diligent in our preventative measures here because we usually know no history on the puppies or adolescent or even adult dogs at our center. Therefore, we have to assume they are all at risk.  That is why procedures exist for disinfection, isolation, vaccination, treatment and above all education.  I think the take away message is that puppies are no different than human infants and exposure to all kinds of things should be taken into consideration when they come home.  Parvovirus is just one of the dangers and it is not limited to shelter adoptions by any means. 

Today’s blogger is Dr. Angela Ivey, director of veterinary medicine at the Richmond SPCA.

Unfortunately, it’s not entirely true.  A great deal of the aforementioned research done on wolf packs is fundamentally flawed and now considered scientifically invalid. Early researchers studied lots of captive wolf packs (which is like trying to draw conclusions about the social interaction of human families by studying a bunch of human prisoners in a jail, according to scientist David Mech).  Additionally, scientists misunderstood some of the wolf body language that they observed. They originally thought that higher-ranking wolves in a pack maintain their status by “rolling” or “pinning” underlings to keep them in their place. In actuality, lower-ranking animals voluntarily lie down, roll over and perform other submissive behaviors in the presence of socially superior wolves. They aren’t forced to do so at all. They’re using body language to communicate—not getting squashed by larger, more powerful “alpha wolves.”

One of the very few scientific studies on domestic dog hierarchies, performed and documented by veterinary behaviorist and trainer Dr. Ian Dunbar, indicated that dogs in stable groups form relationships that are much more complex than those involved in a simple “pecking order.”  According to Dunbar’s study, the dog with “dominant” status changes, depending on the relationships between individual animals in specific contexts.  It’s not a case of ONE “alpha dog” ruling the roost, and all other pack members obediently falling into line.  Additionally, no one dog spends all of his energy “forcing” his pack mates to walk behind him, “forcing” his pack mates to eat only after he’s finished, and “forcing” his pack mates not to sleep in a particular area.

Next time… learn more about the debate over “Alpha”-rolling or “Alpha” role-playing.

Richmond SPCA behavior blogs are written by training specialist Marie Tripton. Have questions about your own pets’ behavior? E-mail or call (804) 643-SPCA.

Because humans domesticated dogs and have thereby become their caretakers, dogs are reliant on our ability to feed, house and otherwise protect them.  They must learn to follow our lead to survive.  It is up to us to set reasonable expectations for the dogs we have welcomed into our homes, and to teach them kindly how to follow our lead.  It is up to us to form a respectful form of communication between our species. 

A respectful form of communication between our species does not need to include alpha-rolling your dog, jerking him, pinning him, or other “dominant” maneuvers any more than our greeting behaviors need to include sniffing each other’s behinds.  Although, you might think such maneuvers are necessary, if you’ve taken advice from well-meaning but misinformed fellow dog owners—or popular television personalities who claim to magically turn wayward pet dogs into perfect companions, just by “asserting their dominance.” According to advocates of training methods based on dominance theory, achieving alpha-dog status through physical punishment and intimidation works as the ultimate behavioral fix for issues ranging from pulling on leash and jumping up to fear and aggression problems. However, despite the popularity of the “alpha” idea among the dog-owning public, the overwhelming majority of dog behavior experts and qualified veterinary behaviorists agree that it isn’t only outdated and based on invalid information—it’s also dangerous and can needlessly damage dog owners’ relationships with their pets.

Check back with us for a continuation of how this conflict in theories came about.

Richmond SPCA behavior blogs are written by training specialist Marie Tripton. Have questions about your own pets’ behavior? E-mail behaviorhelpline@richmondspca.org or call (804) 643-SPCA.

The Richmond SPCA strongly opposes the trapping and removal of feral cats. It is ineffective and costly. It provides only a short-term solution because in a matter of months, new cats will take up residence where the former feral cat colony members once lived. Most importantly, this method is not humane and results in the unnecessary death of hundreds of cats in communities each year.

So what does work and has been proven successful time after time? Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) is the single most effective and humane solution to feral cat colony management. Through TNR, dedicated colony caretakers agree to trap feral cats, bring them to a spay/neuter clinic like the Richmond SPCA where they are sterilized, vaccinated against rabies and provided with routine veterinary care at no charge, and return them to their colony, which is the only home these cats have ever known. Colony caretakers agree to provide food to the colony on a regular basis. TNR works because 1) cats are spayed or neutered, so they can no longer reproduce, which prevents their colony growing beyond a manageable level; 2) cats receive rabies vaccines, so they present no threat to human safety; 3) cats are provided with a regular feeding schedule, so they do not need to forage for food around the property. TNR costs businesses nothing, yet these same businesses stand to gain everything.

When I contact business management to talk to them about humanely managing the colonies on their properties, they are fond of attributing motivation for the removal of the cats to the wishes of their employees or residents; however, as the Richmond SPCA found in the overwhelming support of the community after feral cats were killed by Critter Control behind Fox Richmond last summer, most Richmonders desire a compassionate response to the presence of these companion animals. Fortunately for businesses, the compassionate response and their own priorities and interests align perfectly with TNR.

Today’s blog was written by Tamsen Kingry, chief operating officer of the Richmond SPCA.

This program was created to help exercise and de-stress homeless dogs at the Richmond SPCA. Many volunteers bring their family and friends along and enjoy the time helping the dogs while getting a good workout in for themselves.

Group runs are scheduled throughout the week and on weekends. There is an after work 5K run every Wednesday at 6 p.m. We also have a 10K run for those more experienced runners on Thursday mornings at 6 a.m. Saturdays are the busiest day with a 5K run at 8 a.m., 5K run at 9:30 a.m., and a 5K walk at 11 a.m.

Do you already have an organized running or walking group but would like to participate in the program? Contact to set up your own group run/walk. This way you can continue to get in shape and spend time with friends while helping dogs in need.

You can sign up for runs online at www.richmondspca.org/events, or e-mail khemsley@richmondspca.org for more information about the program.

The bill was vocally opposed by the hunters and the breeders as was predictable.  Their comments, as usual, were entirely self focused and they never mentioned the number of animals dying in Virginia pounds and shelters.  The situation apparently does not bother them.  The bill was also loudly opposed by Senator Stuart, a member of the Agriculture Committee, who announced that his two unneutered labs run free all the time and their local animal control officer (who he called the “dogcatcher”) brings them back home all the time.  He then told the large group that his dogs certainly are not breeding when they are running at large.  I found it amazing that a state senator would acknowledge openly the immense cost that he is causing to his locality to repeatedly have to deal with his stray dogs.  I found it even more amazing that he believes that, when they are running at large all over the landscape, they are remaining celibate at all times. 

And, so, yet again, the Virginia General Assembly refrains from taking even the smallest of step that would help reduce the massive loss of life of innocent animals in their state’s pounds and shelters.  All in a day’s work for them I suppose.

Today’s blog author is Robin Robertson Starr, chief executive officer of the Richmond SPCA.

On Wednesday, the focus was instead on the AKC’s annual list of the most popular dog breeds in America. The photos are undeniably compelling, but is a dog’s breed really an important factor in making him a good pet? Shelters and adoption centers usually label available pets by breed, which is usually a guess based on their overall appearance. This is true at the Richmond SPCA as well, but we try to focus more attention on the pet’s individual traits. Dogs are individuals, and even those with similar breed backgrounds can vary widely in their Canine-ality, which helps determine what type of home is a good match. 

At the Richmond SPCA, every life is precious, and I’ve asked our staff to suggest dogs for a top ten list of our own. The top ten dogs adopted in 2008:

Orchid: This 4-year old shepherd and pit bull mix was with us for many months before finding the right home. Regular runs filled her exercise needs and learning agility skills taught her focus.

Olive first came to us with bare, pink skin irritated from untreated allergies. With medical care, her fur began to grow back. After receiving lots of love from our staff, her confidence also grew, and Olive went to a new home over the summer. Her family said they were sure to pack her sunscreen for their beach vacation.

Stella has maturity on her side, but sometimes age is a deterrent to otherwise great dogs finding a home. She found her perfect match spending her days in a local retirement community where she is said to bring lots of joy to the residents.

Finding an outlet for Mortimer’s boundless energy was the inspiration for the Richmond SPCA’s popular Running Buddies program. Mortimer came to us as a small puppy with normal puppy habits like jumping and mouthiness, but because he is deaf, he had more trouble learning appropriate behavior. Our trainers prepared his adopter with sign language signals and tools for managing his energy, and he was doing great when he came for a visit on Christmas Eve.

Quincy and Cheyenne found a home together because of the way they rely on one another. Quincy (left) had surgery to correct a problem with her eyelids, after which she regained her sight, and was able to help Cheyenne, who has limited vision, find her way around.

Kermit is such a handsome, young lab mix that he seemed sure to find a home right away. Yet month after month, he waited for someone to take him home. Surely the adopter who now enjoys Kermit’s companionship is grateful that he had a safe place at the Richmond SPCA, no matter how long it took to find the right home.

Frieda’s owner used our low-cost boarding program to temporarily house his two dogs after losing his home. Unfortunately, his new apartment only allows one pet, and he surrendered Frieda. She is an older poodle with an undaunted spirit, even though she has limited vision and other health issues. Frieda is an Angel Pet whose medical care we will continue to assist with now that she’s in a home.

Don represents all 29 dogs we rescued from the puppy mill in southwest Virginia. He was the first of the rescued pooches to go to a permanent home. Most of the dogs required extensive dental work; Don was the exception because the poor diet they were fed already caused this guy – though only 3 or 4 years old – to lose all his teeth. His adopter assured Don that his toothlessness is no distraction from his overwhelming cuteness. She was very impressed with how quickly he began showing affection after having been denied human companionship for so long.

The photo on the left is Astrid when she first came to us, emaciated and weighing only 26 lbs. The “after” was taken at Canine Café in January. She has a condition that prevents her food from passing through her esophagus, so she must eat standing on her hind legs to allow gravity to aid digestion. Helping Astrid maintain a healthy weight is a big commitment that many passed by in the months she was available for adoption. Her current guardian says, “Sure it takes me a lot of extra time to take care of her. But you know, I do not mind the extra time required at all. I am rewarded 10 fold.” 

Do you love dogs, and training them? Can YOU run the ultimate bootcamp? Do you have proven experience in being able to train those aggressive breeds who go from trainer to trainer and never seem to learn how to sit or stay still? Then we want YOU as our next drill sergeant!!!!

Varuna Entertainment is currently casting for a dramatic reality docuseries in development for the Animal Planet. The network is taking the next step in K9 training by having their drill sergeant make troubled dogs good once again. Candidates must be able to take a stern and militaristic, yet positive attitude towards dog training, and can show us on video or in pictures. Think “Celebrity Fit Club” or “Biggest Loser.“ We want you to show us how YOU run the best bootcamp!!!

Yet another “opportunity” for us to dominate, “boot,” or otherwise bully the four-legged friends we take into our homes.  Why does dominating and controlling our pets appeal so to us humans?  Because shows like the one promoted above, and the trainers involved, sensationalize training to make us feel like we have magical powers. 

Why would I feel the urge to push and jerk my friend around instead of attempting to find a form of communication agreeable to both of our cultures – dog and human?  After all, if I invited a human friend from another culture into my home, I wouldn’t knee him in the chest if he bowed towards me instead of shaking my hand.  I wouldn’t drag someone right beside me by a short rope if their culture determined they should walk 6 feet behind.  We would likely find some acceptable form of greeting or walking that felt comfortable to both.  Patience, understanding and time would be essential.  But that doesn’t play well on TV, and it doesn’t make you feel like you are “Super Alpha.”

If my spouse or child suddenly started slapping me in the face on a regular basis, we would seek serious counseling and/or medical intervention.  It wouldn’t even cross my mind to pin my spouse to the ground or throw a can of pennies in the direction of my child.  Don’t get me wrong, we all do irrational things at times.  I’ve certainly made my share of mistakes, but I would NEVER develop a plan for improved relations based on dominance, force or pain.

Sadly, the public and trainers alike are applying such maneuvers to attempt to train even basic skills like sit, down, come and stay.  Training your pet can actually be an ENJOYABLE prospect – and not extremely time-consuming.  There are newer and exciting training methods that even your 4-year-old can practice.  Your grandmother won’t have to pull your dog to the ground and stand on his leash to teach him a polite greeting skill. 

I implore you.  If you are militaristic in nature, please “Stand Down, Soldier.”  Do not respond to this call to arms.  Anyone who calls us to battle against our own canine countrymen and companions is definitely not a friend.  Instead, join us to help spread the word and actions towards building friendly relationships with our pets.  Trainers, please support training methods based on scientific study, and “Pay no attention to the man behind the curtain.”  Our public needs permission to actually enjoy their relationships with their pets.

Today’s blog was written by Marie Tripton, who employs positive reinforcement techniques as the senior behavior/training specialist at the Richmond SPCA. For behavior help, e-mail behaviorhelpline@richmondspca.org or call (804) 643-SPCA.