**The Old Dominion Humane Society: A Comprehensive Guide to Animal Welfare in Virginia**

Introduction

The Old Dominion Humane Society (ODHS) is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting animal welfare in Virginia. For over 90 years, ODHS has been a lifeline for abandoned, abused, and neglected animals, offering a wide range of services to protect and support their furry friends.

Mission and Vision

Mission: To prevent cruelty to animals and promote responsible pet ownership.

Vision: A community where all animals are treated with compassion and respect, and every animal has a safe and loving home.

Services and Programs

ODHS offers a comprehensive suite of services to address the needs of animals and their caregivers:

• Animal Adoption and Placement: ODHS rescues and finds loving homes for thousands of homeless animals each year.
• Humane Education: ODHS educates the community about animal welfare, spaying and neutering, and responsible pet ownership.
• Veterinary Care: ODHS provides subsidized veterinary care to low-income families and animals in need.
• Animal Cruelty Investigation: ODHS investigates animal cruelty cases and works to prosecute those who abuse or neglect animals.
• Pet Food Pantry: ODHS provides pet food assistance to families struggling to feed their companion animals.

How ODHS Helps the Community

ODHS is a vital resource for the community, providing a safety net for animals in need and supporting responsible pet owners. By providing animal adoption, veterinary care, and humane education, ODHS:

• Reduces the number of homeless animals: ODHS finds homes for thousands of animals each year, alleviating overcrowding in shelters and reducing the risk of euthanasia.
• Promotes responsible pet ownership: ODHS educates the community about proper pet care, including spaying and neutering, preventing unwanted litters and reducing the number of animals in need.
• Strengthens the human-animal bond: ODHS provides opportunities for families to adopt loving companions, enriching their lives and promoting the well-being of both humans and animals.

Financial Impact of ODHS

ODHS relies on donations and grants to fund its vital services. In 2021, ODHS:

• Invested over $10 million in animal welfare programs: This includes animal care, adoption services, veterinary care, and humane education.
• Provided veterinary care to nearly 3,000 animals: ODHS subsidized veterinary care for low-income families, providing critical medical care to animals in need.
• Educated over 10,000 people about animal welfare: ODHS reached the community through school outreach, pet fairs, and online resources, promoting responsible pet ownership and preventing cruelty.

How You Can Support ODHS

There are various ways you can support the Old Dominion Humane Society and its mission:

• Adopt a Pet: Give a loving home to an animal in need.
• Donate: Your financial contributions help ODHS provide essential services and care for animals in need.
• Volunteer: Dedicate your time and skills to help ODHS with animal care, adoption, and outreach events.
• Spread the Word: Share information about ODHS with friends, family, and the community to raise awareness and encourage support.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When interacting with animals, it's essential to avoid common mistakes that can compromise their well-being:

• Overfeeding: Feeding your pet too much can lead to obesity, health problems, and a shortened lifespan.
• Skipping Vet Checkups: Regular veterinary checkups are crucial for early detection and treatment of diseases and health issues.
• Neglecting Spaying or Neutering: Uncontrolled pet populations contribute to homelessness and unwanted litters.
• Leaving Pets Outside Unattended: Animals should be kept indoors or in a secure outdoor area to protect them from weather, predators, and accidents.
• Using Harsh Punishments: Physical punishment or yelling can damage the human-animal bond and compromise the animal's mental health.

How to Adopt a Pet from ODHS

Adopting a pet from ODHS is a rewarding experience that changes both your life and the animal's life. Here's a step-by-step approach:

1. Visit the ODHS Website or Shelter: Browse adoptable animals and learn about their personalities and needs.
2. Fill Out an Adoption Application: Provide information about your home, family, and lifestyle to ensure a suitable match for the animal.
3. Meet and Greet the Animal: Spend time with the animal you're interested in to see if it's a good fit for your family.
4. Home Visit: An ODHS staff member may conduct a home visit to assess the safety and suitability of your home for the animal.
5. Finalize the Adoption: Once the adoption is approved, you'll need to sign an adoption agreement and pay an adoption fee.

Why Spaying and Neutering Matters

Spaying and neutering are essential procedures that provide numerous benefits for both animals and the community:

• Prevents Unwanted Litters: Spaying and neutering eliminates the risk of accidental breeding, reducing the number of homeless animals.
• Improves Health: Spaying and neutering can help prevent certain cancers and infections, promoting a healthier life for your pet.
• Reduces Behavioral Problems: Spaying and neutering can mitigate aggressive and territorial behaviors, making pets more suitable for family environments.
• Lowers Shelter Overcrowding: By reducing the number of unwanted litters, spaying and neutering helps alleviate overcrowding in shelters and frees up resources for animals in need.
• Protects Wildlife: Unwanted pets often end up in the wild, where they can compete with native species and contribute to overpopulation.

Call to Action

The Old Dominion Humane Society needs your support to continue its vital mission of providing animal welfare services and protecting the lives of animals. Consider adopting a pet, donating to the cause, volunteering your time, or spreading the word about the importance of responsible pet ownership. Together, we can create a compassionate community where every animal has a chance to thrive and find a loving home.

Tables

Table 1: Animal Intake and Adoption Rates at ODHS
| Year | Animals Intaken | Animals Adopted | Adoption Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | 5,432 | 4,987 | 92% |
| 2020 | 5,021 | 4,543 | 90% |
| 2021 | 4,734 | 4,286 | 90% |

Table 2: Veterinary Care Provided by ODHS
| Type of Care | Animals Treated |
|---|---|
| Wellness Exams | 1,254 |
| Vaccinations | 972 |
| Spay/Neuter Surgeries | 765 |
| Dental Cleanings | 543 |
| Emergency Care | 319 |

Table 3: Humane Education Programs Conducted by ODHS
| Program | Students Reached |
|---|---|
| School Presentations | 6,543 |
| Pet Fairs | 2,381 |
| Online Resources | 1,826 |