What is the Fredericksburg SPCA?
The Fredericksburg SPCA is a non-profit, no-kill humane organization dedicated to the principle that every life is unique and worthy of protection. As a local leader in humane care and education, the Fredericksburg SPCA’s mission is to tackle the problem of pet overpopulation through education, adoption, rehabilitation and spay/neuter. The organization saves the lives of many homeless animals each year and cares for approximately 400 cats and dogs daily. The Fredericksburg SPCA is not affiliated with any other animal welfare organization.
What is the difference between a public animal control agency and a private humane organization?
Public animal control agencies are legally charged with enforcing animal control laws and the laws protecting animals from abuse or neglect. They respond to citizens’ complaints about animals and impound stray animals (thus the name “pound”). They are responsible for investigating instances of animal abuse or cruelty and are supported entirely by government funds.
Private humane organizations receive no government funds and carry no legal authority. The role of a private humane organization, such as the Fredericksburg SPCA, is to provide resources to save healthy, treatable animals from death, to treat animals with compassion and understanding, and to help people have happier, more fulfilling relationships with their animal.
What has the Fredericksburg SPCA accomplished in its most recent year (2016)?
In 2016, we had over 1,500 intakes, and just as many outcomes (so far!). Our numbers this past year doubled our 2014 numbers. Additionally, our length of stay for felines was reduced by over 60 percent, and the dog length of stay was cut by 33 percent. That means: less stress and illness, which creates a happier pet population at the shelter!
How can I get involved?
The Fredericksburg SPCA accepts volunteers, and we would love to have you! Volunteers are an important part of every department at our shelter, and opportunities to serve are numerous and varied – from socializing dogs and cats, laundry, donation sorting, development assistance, outreach at events and more.
What are the requirements to volunteer?
The only requirement is a desire to join our team. Volunteers are required to be 16 years of age or older to come in independently, however, there is no age requirement to complete service work alongside a parent or guardian.
We ask that all of our volunteers complete 4 service hours with us each month in order to stay active in our system. You can complete these hours at your convenience. Please note we are in need of volunteers seven days a week, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Our scheduling is flexible!
What if I have a child, under the age of 16, that would like to volunteer?
If you have a middle-school aged youth that would like to volunteer, consider inquiring about our upcoming youth volunteer program, scheduled to launch in late January. Students in this program will be learning more about animal welfare and will complete various activities and crafts. They’ll also get hands on experience working with the animals in our care.
Who do I contact to learn more about the Fredericksburg SPCA’s volunteer program?
To learn more, please contact Alison Carlin, the Volunteer Coordinator, at alifredspca@gmail.com.
What are other ways to get involved with the Fredericksburg SPCA, outside of volunteering?
You can also support our mission by adopting, donating and/or fostering! To find out more information about these options, please visit us online at http://www.fburgspca.org or call us at (540) 898-1500.
