Celebrating the 2 Year Anniversary of Dog Dog Day Out Program!

The national statistics for young large breed dogs languishing in our animal shelters is overwhelming. Locally, in Santa Clara County, hundreds of beautiful, healthy large breed dogs are waiting to be noticed and adopted. Unfortunately, there is a definite shortage of adopters, especially those who are able to provide for large breed dogs who are energetic and need training, enrichment and exercise to thrive. With the ever expanding list of breed restrictions at rentals, even fewer families are able welcome a large dog into their home. 

In 2018, Silicon Valley Pet Project opened Pup Plaza, a temporary space we called Silicon Valley’s first dog community center. Along with other programs, we initiated a Dog Day Out program partnering with the San Jose Animal Care Center to welcome small adoptable dogs to hang out with dog-loving volunteers for the day. Until COVID restrictions ended this program, many small dogs enjoyed a weekly break from shelter life. 

As COVID progressed, the demographics of the adoptable dogs at San Jose Animal Care Center changed - fewer small dogs, many more young large breed dogs crowding the kennels. In response to this change and at the request of the shelter, Silicon Valley Pet Project redeveloped our Dog Day Out Program to suit the needs of the shelter’s large dog population and built a team of dedicated skilled volunteers to take these kennel-stressed dogs on outings to hiking trails, shopping malls, Starbucks, neighborhood walks - each outing lasting several hours. Our dedicated volunteers take photos and complete a DDO Report Card after each outing, which are used to promote these dogs to the public.

Beautiful Olive enjoys the great outdoors!

Researchers at Virginia Tech and Arizona State University, recently studied the effects of outings of just a few hours and fostering stays of one to two nights on dogs’ length of stay in the shelter and their adoption outcomes. The results? Brief outings and temporary fostering stays increased dogs’ likelihood of adoption by five and more than 14 times, respectively! 

Silicon Valley Pet Project’s program allows these shelter dogs a break from shelter life in the real world and for our volunteers to be able to witness the type of dog they are - something that is almost impossible to do in a stressful shelter environment. Given that many of these dogs have unknown history, it is critical to provide the public with some details about these dogs outside of the kennel so their true nature can be seen and appreciated! 

SVPP Volunteer with Olive on hiking adventure!

In February 2024, SVPP’s Shelter Dog Day Out Program for large breeds is celebrating 2 years and 700 outings! We are sincerely grateful for the dedicated, skilled volunteers who help us show these fabulous dogs to the public, and who work hard to shine light on these overlooked shelter pups. If you are looking to adopt a large breed dog, please consider the more than 200 dogs at the San Jose Animal Care Center waiting to be adopted.

Silicon Valley Pet Project has been a rescue partner to San Jose Animal Care Center for nearly 10 years. In addition to the Shelter Dog Day Out Program, our flagship Foster Program takes in the most vulnerable dogs - many who are senior and have advanced medical issues, and some who have significant behavioral needs that only a dedicated foster home with training support can help heal. We are always in need of committed foster homes for large dogs as we receive urgent pleas every day to rescue more. 

For more information about Silicon Valley Pet Project’s programs, please refer to our website here.

The Hands and Heart Making Rescue a Reality: SVPP's Andrea Lee

The heart of Silicon Valley Pet Project is its ability to rescue pets from the shelter, get them into foster homes and provide the medical, dental, behavioral care and support they need to heal and blossom.  It takes a lot of hands, but Andrea Lee has two of the biggest hands – and one of the biggest hearts – in the mix.  As SVPP foster care manager,  she coordinates everything from rescue to adoption with the help of other SVPP volunteers.   We share Andrea’s story here.  I call it “An SVPP Profile in Courage” because of the passion, commitment and often emotional hard work needed in making rescue a success. 

 

Andrea (right), Ruby (center) and Andrea's daughter, Haven (left).

How did you get involved in rescue and when did you get involved with SVPP?

It started with a deep love for dogs.  My first rescue dog was Ivy, a retired racing Greyhound. We adopted her 13 years ago. Sadly, she passed 4 years later of cancer. I found SVPP because a few months after Ivy passed, my daughters pushed me to find another dog, and we met Ruby, a beautiful, one-eyed American Bully mix . Ruby taught me the depth of love that dogs can bring into a family. She battled heartworm and three different types of cancer and so many fears in her brief life, but she gave me so much: a love for Bully breeds, a better understanding of animal rescue and the importance of giving stable, loving homes to dogs who need us. After Ruby passed, I adopted a sweet, broken 4-year-old American Bully from Jake's Wish who did not know how to be a dog. In order to help her learn to be a dog, I started fostering through SVPP and in February of 2020, agreed to start as a Foster Coordinator. The next month, the pandemic hit and things got really busy really fast. I never looked back!

 

How would you describe your role as foster manager?

I am a scheduler, volunteer trainer, part-time vet tech, match-maker, community education specialist, and most importantly, a cheerleader — both for the animals and for the amazing fosters who give them loving homes.

 

Star: a testament to the power of rescue.

Can you share one of your most important rescue stories with us?

Each rescue is so special, it is very difficult to choose! But one that I think about often is a young American Bully mix we pulled from Tri-City Shelter in July of 2020. She was so scared and very sick. She had foxtails in her mammary glands and bite marks on and around her head. Everything was new and scary to Star. She was fostered by an incredibly gentle and patient young couple and very slowly began to gain a little confidence. When she was ready for adoption, a single dad and his daughter applied for her. His wife had recently passed, and he and his daughter were in the midst of moving to get a fresh start. The daughter needed a companion to help her through her trauma, and Star needed a family who would give her time, space and unconditional love to overcome her trauma. It was the most beautiful match and a testament to the power of rescue.

 

What’s the most important thing that we need to know about the state of rescue right now?

The needs are greater than ever. There is not one single reason for the desperate state of animal rescue right now — there are a myriad of reasons, and they have stacked up to create an unsustainable situation. Rescues like SVPP need more fosters, adopters and donors.  Shelters need more funds and more staffing and more solutions to help keep animals in their homes. Communities need more access to low-cost spay-neuter, more landlords who don't restrict pet ownership, and more regulations on animal breeders with significant penalties for those who dump "imperfect" puppies, mommas and stud dogs. Animals need humans with more capacity for patience and commitment.

 

I know this role brings lots of challenges, but what brings you joy?

Matching a dog or cat in need with a family who will give them a loving, forever home and will not give up on them.

Fostering Sometimes Means Expecting the Unexpected

Pepper is now ready for her forever family.

“There’s a puppy on my living room floor!”  That’s not a phrase we hear very often, even being steeped in rescue.  But that’s the message that Silicon Valley Pet Project (SVPP) Foster Manager Andrea Lee received from foster mom Laura Bower late on Friday night in September. That evening — and unexpectedly — her new foster Chihuahua, Pepper, gave birth to four puppies at her home.

Every foster journey is different.  And, they all matter.  With twists and turns, ups and downs, surprises and challenges, the end result is saving a life – and in this case, five.

Just a few weeks prior, Laura had volunteered to foster Pepper, in part, because Laura’s own dog, Jilly, was so calm with her.  At about 9 months old and just a puppy herself, Pepper started showing signs of a first possible heat cycle just a few weeks after settling in at Laura’s home.  Little did Laura or SVPP know that a litter was on the way.  

Pepper debuted her puppies at a recent adoption event.

Laura had been a little concerned about Pepper and made an appointment at her vet for a visit the very next day.  

“I was only sure Pepper was pregnant the night she gave birth!  I was suspicious that she was, and had made an appointment for an examination with my vet – which I completely forgot about with four newborns in the house.”

Laura, Andrea and SVPP came together to make sure Pepper and the newly named “spice” pups were healthy and well.  After three weeks,  another foster took the new family and now, Pepper is back with Laura, exhibiting all of the energy and spunk of a puppy herself.  The spice pups are awaiting their own spay and neuter appointments to avoid any more surprises!

Foster mom Laura with Jilly and Pepper

While Laura is new to fostering and Pepper is only her second experience, one lesson she has learned (times five!) is that you have to be patient and flexible. Foster manager Andrea Lee emphasizes this.

"Although we try to get as much information as possible about pets we rescue, you really never know what you’re going to get.  In some ways, you have to expect the unexpected. But in the end, it’s all worth it!  It’s another life saved.”

Now that mommy duty is behind her, Pepper is ready for her forever family!  You can find out more information about her here.  

With shelters in crisis and over capacity, fostering and adopting are more essential than ever in saving lives.  If you are interested in your own foster journey or want to find out about adopting a dog or cat, puppy or kitten, please go to www.svpetproject.org.

Karen Zamel is a long time SVPP volunteer and foster and part of the communications team.

Remember Me Thursday: Celebrating Adoption and Saving Lives

                      

On September 28th, we join the global community in celebrating Remember Me Thursday, a day dedicated to the cause of adoption. Since early 2015, Silicon Valley Pet Project has rescued over 1,770 dogs and cats from local animal shelters, provided them with medical care and support and found them forever homes. We are deeply committed to this day and its significance to our mission.

The Power of Adoption

At SVPP, we witness the remarkable transformation that occurs when previously sick and homeless pets find their forever families. Adoption is not only about welcoming a pet into your life; it's about providing a second chance, a loving family, and a future filled with happiness. Remember Me Thursday reminds us of the profound impact that adoption has on the lives of animals and the joy it brings to their human companions.

Shining a Light on the Unseen

While we have had the privilege of saving the lives of 1,770 dogs and cats, there are countless more awaiting a second chance. Our local news is full of articles about the struggles of pets in shelters in Silicon Valley. Remember Me Thursday shines a light on this harsh reality. It urges us to remember those still waiting in shelters, often overlooked simply because they haven't had the opportunity to capture hearts. SVPP’s Shelter Dog Day Out program has allowed large breed dogs who are languishing at the San Jose Animal Care Center, an opportunity to enjoy the outdoors on hikes with experienced volunteers committed to giving them the opportunity to shine. These dogs greatly deserve to be adopted by loving families who understand how wonderful they are.

The Role of Community

Our organization thrives because of the unwavering support and dedication of our community. Remember Me Thursday is not just an event for animal welfare organizations; it's a day for everyone who believes in the power of adoption. We invite our community to join us in celebrating this day and making a meaningful difference by sharing with friends and family about the importance of #adoptdontshop.

Whether you adopt or foster a pet or support these efforts, your contribution matters. Together, we can raise awareness about the importance of adoption and help more animals find a happily ever after.. 

Senior pets like Sunny and Rascal who were rescued by SVPP from the San Jose shelter, make incredible pets and are waiting to provide unconditional love to a lucky family!

Creating a Brighter Future

Remember Me Thursday is about looking forward, not just back. We encourage potential pet parents to choose adoption as their first option, and we inspire others to support local shelters and rescue organizations.

On September 28th, let's remember them—the animals who are still waiting for their forever homes. Let's remember the power of adoption to transform lives. Let's remember that each of us has the ability to change a life, one adoption at a time. Join us in celebrating Remember Me Thursday and be a part of the movement that brightens the lives of animals in need. Together, we can make a difference that lasts a lifetime!

To find out more about adopting or fostering with SVPP, please visit our website.

Melissa Lisbon is the co-founder and CEO of Silicon Valley Pet Project.

Life Planning for Your Pet Can Reduce Shelter Overcrowding and Euthanasia

As we see, hear and stress about the overcrowding crisis at municipal shelters, one loud question looms: how do we make a difference?

Fostering and adopting make a big dent. Spay and neuter are mission critical to
reducing homelessness.  But there’s a personal step you can take now to make sure your cat or dog doesn’t end up in the shelter unintentionally: create a life-time continuous care plan for your pet.

What happens if your pet outlives you – or your ability to care for it?

It’s estimated that more than 500,000 pets are surrendered each year due to the passing, illness or incapacitation of a pet’s owner.  With shelters at over capacity, these surrenders can end up badly — with healthy and adoptable pets euthanized.

Resources

A non-profit organization called 2nd Chance 4 Pets provides a variety of resources you can use to determine which path is best for you and your pet – or pets.  You can find details on creating pet trusts, keeping pets together, lifetime care facilities and sanctuaries, and even care instructions for pets you leave behind.

On a Personal Note

My husband and I recently completed our first will and trust. The estate planning questionnaire asked for details regarding the care of our pets after we pass.  We always have cats in our family but it somehow never dawned on us to formalize arrangements for them.  We contacted our nephew, Jake, who loves our cats.  He happily agreed to take care of them in any circumstance and we set aside money in our will for this.  It was important and heartfelt.  I know that at 19 years old, Jake understands his commitment and how much we value it.

Moving Forward

Need another reason to take these steps?  This is the perfect time to make life care plans for your pet.  August is National Make-A-Will month!

Karen Zamel is a long-time SVPP volunteer, foster and adopter.

June is Adopt a Cat Month! We May Have Your Purrfect Pet!

When we adopted our first cat, Mopps, she was the resident “leftover” at my mom’s vet, who had cared for and then adopted out a litter of strays.  At just four months old, no one wanted Mopps; she was considered too old for families seeking a kitten.  We are grateful every day we gave her a home.

In honor of homeless cats everywhere — and even in the midst of kitten
season — we are highlighting our more mature pets in foster, from 1-year-old Aida to 15-year-old Rascal and lots in between!

So, please read through.  See if one of these pets might be purrfect for you and click here for adoption information.

Aida is a 1-year old brown and white tabby who is friendly, easy going, attentive and affectionate.  She would happily be your lap cat, play on her own or tend to her kittens who are also in foster care.  She will meow for your attention and, oh, don’t forget that pet or belly rub!

Didi is a gray tabby with tons of energy and glee!  At 12, she is living her very
best life and can’t wait to play, scale cat trees or nap half on your lap!  With help of medication and prescription diet, this affectionate and cat-nip-loving feline is managing hyperthyroidism and IBD. 

Hemsworth is a beautiful male tabby, at about 2-years old. While it may take a moment to warm up to you, Hemsworth will be your very best friend, once acquainted.  He is always ready to play with crinkly toys and will chase anything on a string — and oh, mealtime is one of his favorite times!

Milo is a 1-year-old male tabby looking for his forever family, and maybe even a female feline companion in his new home — a friend he can play with, chase around and ultimately cuddle with after they exhaust each other from lots of play!

Rascal is the most senior member of our group!  This sweet, friendly Bombay was surrendered at the shelter after his owner passed away.  He is outgoing, sociable and will follow you around the house!  He gets injections twice a day to manage his diabetes and is on prescription food to help trim down his boyish figure.  Because of his condition, SVPP is planning to continue sponsoring his diabetes maintenance which includes related vet visits and insulin supplies.

Zoey is a sweet and special tuxedo who needs time, TLC and a quiet home.  This once outdoor girl was surrendered by a family who moved and was incredibly stressed in the shelter environment.  We need someone who is patient, and who will let this shy girl settle in, get used to her forever home and family, and live a good life!

Karen Zamel (karenz@svpetproject.org) is a long-time SVPP volunteer, foster and blogger.

Fostering Can Be Surprising, Complicated and Joyful: Our Journey with Didi

I’ve always considered myself a rescue person.  Even in elementary and grade school, I would bring home stray cats and kittens to protect and love (only to have them given away by a mom with an allergy).

I’ve been more formally involved with rescue since 2012.  Our first foster failure was Frankie, a cat on the “at risk” list at the San Jose shelter.  We’ve fostered and adopted other rescues, but other than a small house crowded with two adults and up to four cats, rescue was pretty uncomplicated.

 

Then came Didi, a cat SVPP pulled from the San Jose shelter.  Didi’s paperwork said she was a young adult (six) and healthy, except for being hyperthyroid.  We could get the much-needed specialty thyroid treatment close to home, so SVPP asked us to foster Didi until she was treated and cleared for adoption.

 

And then came the surprises…

 

The first surprise was diarrhea, starting on our way home from Pup Plaza (via the San Jose shelter). We thought this was from the stress of the shelter (more than 10 weeks in a cage), but even after she was settled in our cozy and comfortable office, the messy problem continued.  We quickly worked with the VCA vet on diagnostics and diet to appease her obviously troubled digestive tract.

The second surprise?  Her age.  Data from her chip told us she is 12 years old, not 6.

 

Third surprise?  No teeth except canines.  But, she does remarkably well with dry food.

 

The best and last surprise?  Her resilience and how fast she started to improve once we got her the food and care she needed.  This cat is a survivor with extra love to give.

 

Every day, we experience her sweet nature, energy, smarts, big purrs, and affection.  At 12 years young, this cat plays with peacock feathers, cat nip toys and mice.  She jumps, runs around and climbs even the tallest cat trees in our house — and has learned on her own how to use the “doggie door” to our catio. She cuddles, snuggles and lays on any nearby human while she naps.  I can’t imagine why anyone would have surrendered her.  While her shelter paperwork didn’t mention this, I’m wondering if her digestive issues and hyperthyroidism didn’t prompt Didi's drop off at the shelter. 

 

Didi’s future is still being written...but, in the meantime we — and SVPP — are keeping her warm, safe and loved.  I doubt that her prospects as an older, special needs cat would have been that good at the shelter.  It has been a surprising journey, but saving Didi’s life has been worth it.

Our blogger, Karen Zamel, is a long-time SVPP volunteer and a member of the communications team.