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| March 2008 | |
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Volunteer Spotlight
Rebecca has been volunteering as a Cat Companion for over a year. Each week Rebecca walks into the Cat and Small Animal room and is greeted by her four-legged friends with purring and love. Socialization is very important to our cats while they are at the Shelter awaiting their new home, so our Cat Companions keep them happy and healthy with grooming, playtime, and lots of TLC. "I really like spending time with the cats and giving them lots of love and attention while they wait for their forever home. I get to meet so many great cats," says Rebecca. Volunteering is rewarding for both our cats and volunteers. Our furry felines love all the attention they get and volunteers feel great knowing they made a difference in our cats' lives. "It's particularly great seeing cats leave the Shelter on the way to their new home," says Rebecca. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Dolores Murray, Manager of Volunteer Services at (703) 838-7447 ext. 225. City Revises Dangerous and Vicious Dog Law
On February 23rd, City Council unanimously voted to revise the City's regulations concerning Dangerous and Vicious Dogs to conform to changes in State law. There are several advantages to this revision. Dangerous Dogs in Virginia are entered and maintained on a state registry, provided that they are appointed by a court, which will now be a part of the City process. In addition, adapting to State law provides a uniform definition throughout the state, meaning that the Dangerous Dog designation and requirements will apply wherever the owner and dog reside within the state. In Virginia and in the City of Alexandria, ownership of a Dangerous Dog comes with great responsibility and is taken very seriously. Owners choosing to keep dogs that have legally been declared Dangerous are subject to a number of regulations on how these dogs may be kept - the dog must wear a special tag, and must be confined to the owner's property, either inside the building or in an enclosed run, unless on a leash with the owner. In addition, the dog must be muzzled when off the property, identified with a tattoo or microchip, and be spayed or neutered. The owner must post a warning sign on the property, maintain liability insurance against dog bites, obtain a special permit from Animal Control and notify Animal Control of any escape or other event. The owner's failure to comply with these requirements is punishable as a misdemeanor. In the past, dogs from other jurisdictions who came into the City and attacked a person or their pet were difficult to prosecute, as City law varied from state law. These new ordinance provisions will not only apply to City residents, but also to any owner and dog who reside anywhere in the state and bring the dog into the City. An out-of-state owner who brings his or her dog into the City will also be subject to these provisions if the owner is served with the summons in Virginia. These changes also affect use of City dog parks. Since use of the City's dog parks is a privilege or benefit, the City is free to establish its own standards for dogs using the parks, unrelated to state law. In order to maintain the same level of protection for members of the public and other dogs while in dog parks, the new ordinance includes a definition of "aggressive dog", which mirrors the City's prior Dangerous Dog definition and includes some instances which would not meet the state's Dangerous Dog definition. Aggressive dogs, just like Dangerous Dogs, are banned from the City's dog parks and off-leash exercise areas. This ban can apply to any dog, regardless of where the dog lives. Animal Control supports these changes in the law, and applaud the City's efforts towards keeping its residents safe from harm by Dangerous or Vicious Dogs. Outstanding Dedication Gets Its Due
Leadership Awards:
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Visit www.alexandriaanimals.org to view more animals available for adoption or stop by the Vola Lawson Animal Shelter, located at 4101 Eisenhower Ave., for a personal visit with Holly or her adoptable animal friends.
With all of the glitz and glamour of a Hollywood movie premier, we celebrated "Hollywoof!" The 4th Annual Black Tie & Tails Gala on February 9, 2008 in Old Town Alexandria. Elegantly dressed supporters, most with their canine companions, celebrated a classy night out on the town in support of the League's work within our community.
As they began their "affair to remember," guests were greeted by Joan Rivers impersonator, Karen Hayes. Everyone was treated to the smooth sounds of Charlene Cochran & the Fifth Avenue Band while savoring the wonderful hors d'oeuvres and delicious desserts. Our canine guests were tempted with creative, natural dog-friendly beverages and were invited to choose from two scrumptious doggy treat buffets provided by Organic Doggy Kitchen and Barkley Square Bakeries.
Old Town MotoPhoto Portraits was on hand to photograph those wishing to commemorate the evening. Many fantastic candid shots were also snapped by the "pup"arazzi. If you would like to view and/or purchase photos from "Hollywoof!" please go to www.oldtown.photoreflect.com. Twenty percent of each photo package purchased will benefit the AWLA.
Some of our canine guests elected to have a session with Pat Bushway, otherwise known as "Madam Canina," paw reader to the dog stars. Attendees also had the opportunity to take a stroll down our Vendor Row to shop from pet-friendly businesses joining us for the evening from their locations in Alexandria and neighboring areas.
As the audience settled into their seats, a canine couture fashion show began, inspired by classic film stars and themes including Marilyn Monroe, Grease, and Breakfast at Tiffany's. These designs and collections were created by Carlos Mejias of Olde Towne School for Dogs, Donna Kenley of Lily Dog, and Kristina Robertson of Barkley Square Gourmet Dog Bakery & Boutique. An exciting live auction followed the fashion show and included items such as fine jewelry, original art, and a luxury pet spa/hotel experience. Auctioneer Christopher Robertson deftly guided the guests through the exciting bidding process while the auction items were presented on the runway by AWLA staff, volunteers and Shelter dogs currently available for adoption.
Many thanks to our supporters who attended the event and to our wonderful sponsors!
Alexandria Animal Hospital, Belle Haven Animal Medical Centre, Lindsay Lexus, The Mount Vernon Voice - Media Sponsor, Peter Ramsberger - Photography Sponsor In-Kind Sponsors included: 20th Century Fox, Barkley Square Gourmet Dog Bakery & Boutique, Blair, Inc., Austin & Jillian Brooks, Natalie Cartner, Michelle D'Ettore, Diva Designer Consignment and Other Delights, Karen Hayes, Cindy Kohler, Susan and Fran Mardula, Men's Warehouse, Alicia Mundy, Mystique Jewelers, Olde Towne Pet Resort, Old Town MotoPhoto Portraits, Organic Doggy Kitchen, Paramount Pictures, Prime Transportation, Christopher Robertson, Sugar House Day Spa & Salon and Toka Salon & Day Spa. Sessions will be held as follows:
Ages 9-12 years Ages 13-15 years |
Rabies Vaccination and Microchip Clinic
Bring your dogs and cats to the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria on Sunday, March 16th from 2:00pm to 4:00pm for their rabies vaccination and/or to have a microchip implanted. A rabies vaccination protects your pet and is required by Virginia State law. Microchips offer permanent identification for your pet. The cost for the rabies vaccination is $10 and only cash and checks are accepted, no credit cards will be accepted for the rabies vaccines. If you would like your pet to receive a three-year vaccination, you will need to provide the appropriate documentation that your pet's rabies shot is still current. Otherwise a one-year vaccination will be given. The cost for microchipping your pet is $30 and payment for microchipping can be made by credit card, check or cash. Appointments are not available. All dogs must be on leash and cats must be in a carrier.
 Rabies Frequently Asked Questions
(adapted from the CDC)
Many species of animals can carry and pass on the Rabies Virus. Wild animals are much more likely to contract Rabies, especially raccoons, skunks, bats, foxes, and coyotes. However, dogs and cats, or any warm-blooded animal, can contract Rabies as well and infected animals can then pass the disease to humans, most often through a bite. You should always wash any bite thoroughly and check with your health care provider about what to do next. In order to best protect yourself and others in the community against Rabies, be a responsible pet owner and keep your pets' vaccinations up to date. This vaccine, required by law, is important not only to keep your pets from getting Rabies, but also to provide a barrier of protection for you in case a rabid wild animal bites your family pet. Keep your pets under direct supervision so they do not come in contact with wild animals. If your pet is bitten, seek veterinary attention immediately. Also, call Animal Control to report stray animals in your neighborhood. Without a visible rabies tag, you just don't know if a stray animal has been vaccinated against Rabies.
Nine special pets have a birthday in March. Our warmest birthday wishes go out to:
Shakiyah - March 5 Any pet can join our Birthday Club! To help celebrate that special day, each Birthday Club pet receives a birthday card from the League, recognition in our E-Newsletter and in the Shelter lobby. Best of all, lifetime membership is only $10 and proceeds help the League find homes for Shelter animals so that they can also enjoy the good life with a family that cares. To enroll, click here.
Activities in Community Outreach
On February 18, the AWLA proudly marched through Olde Towne in the 2008 George Washington Birthday Parade. Staff and volunteers walked in the parade and also hosted an information booth. League representatives provided informative brochures and guidance about pet emergency preparedness, pictures of animals available for adoption and general information about the League. Kady, a 1 year old Jack Russell Terrier / Pug Mix who is also up for adoption, was also present to greet children, adults and dogs alike at this celebratory event. She helped to represent the League while scouting out potential owners and looking for donations at the same time. She is an energetic, happy young girl who enjoys all the attention she can get. Be sure to come and visit her and the other pets available for adoption at the Shelter.  Kady On Saturday, March 1, many Alexandrians and visitors alike enjoyed the festivities of The St. Patrick's Day Fun Dog Show in Market Square. Adoptable pets from the AWLA kicked off the parade and marched proudly through the streets of Alexandria. Karing by Kristina/Barkley Square coordinated this year's event and donated the proceeds to benefit the League. Thank you, Karing by Kristina and Barkley Square! Also on Saturday, March 1, Attorney Peter King of Hauswiesner King LLP was at the League to offer a free lecture about estate planning for animal companions. Those in attendance were given easy and comprehensive information about how to ensure the welfare, safety and care of their animals when they are gone. Be sure to get your youth group or school involved in our Community Outreach program! We offer tours, educational classes and hands on learning experiences. Our Humane Educator is waiting to arrange a specialized visit just for you and your organization. These wonderful opportunities may take place at the Vola Lawson Animal Shelter or at another location of your choice! Please call Lesa Miller at 703-838-4774 ext. 210 to schedule your event today!
Site to See
Have you checked our website lately? It's a great resource for checking out adoptable animals, upcoming events, job listings, volunteer opportunities, and animal information. Visit www.alexandriaanimals.org. 
Monthly Giving Program
Would you be interested in our Monthly Giving Program? Your monthly gift would support a solution for the animal care issues that face us now. We see a future of no more homeless animals. We see a future with no unwanted litters of kittens and puppies. We see a future where animals don't suffer.
Your generosity would help provide the financial stability that enables the League to care for thousands of animals at the Shelter each year, find them permanent homes, extend outreach services into the community, and educate youth and adults about being part of the solution. Please contact our Development Department at (703) 838-4774 for further information. 
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On Friday, March 14, at 9:30 a.m. the 2008 Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments Animal Services Awards will be presented in Washington D.C. Just like the Oscars, the Animal Services Awards honor the achievements and dedication of those in our field - in this case, those who protect and serve the animals in our region. We are pleased to announce that a number of staff and volunteers were nominated this year.
