For the Pets and the Community: 50/50 Winner Story

February 21, 2024

By Paula Nalbaru

The Nova Scotia SPCA started doing 50/50 raffles when we still had to make the weekly trip to get printed tickets, do a manual draw, and then shred them all. One by one.

Then Rafflebox moved online. Now, we can click a button to randomly select the winner, saving gas money and precious time. We call the winners giving them the fantastic news. There’s surprise, laughter, tears, and the occasional “Is this a prank” question. All just as lovely, making our day as much as we make theirs.

Tammy Quilty is one of the people we had the pleasure to call to give her the news. And we did that not once, not twice, but three times. Each call a better one than the other as the jackpot got higher with each win.

“I got the call expecting a few thousand dollars like before, but the last one was $11,000. I couldn’t believe it,” she says.

Tammy has been buying tickets in our 50/50 raffle since the pandemic. She won twice at the end of 2022 and again in December 2023. She tells us how she started playing, “I saw it one day online and just played. I won once, and I never win anything. And I just kept doing it. I love animals, I already spent money buying things for your organization so this way you can put the money toward what is fully needed. I continued to play because I see where it goes. I see that it goes into the community, I see that it goes into the animals, but I also just see from my previous adoptions to the animals I have now, that animals need help, and I feel like they are often forgotten in communities. I think it is important that they get just as much care.”

Tammy is no stranger to animals. She has been surrounded by them since she was a kid, her house always knowing the sound of a meow, a bark, and toe beans on the floor during zoomies. She has been a supporter of the Nova Scotia SPCA for years, and she has seen firsthand what we do for animals and families. She knows it as a social worker who leaned on us on behalf of her clients. She knows it as an animal lover and past adopter.

It started with Cole, Kiwi, and Marley. All in her life for decades, siblings who decided to join each other across the rainbow bridge close to one another. Losing her three fur babies within a month of each other was heartbreaking. But that was when Tammy decided her home could never be pet-free again. And she kept that promise as right now Tammy’s home is run by four cats and two dogs.

Out of her four-legged friends, two were adopted from our Nova Scotia SPCA Dartmouth Animal Shelter. “Cole, he was my all-grey kitty and Kiwi, our black one. I didn’t know much about Cole’s story. But Kiwi was found in a garbage can, I will always remember that. I went in to search for a cat, and I thought I wanted a white, fluffy cat. And I saw this tiny black kitty with little yellow eyes and the person working there told me ‘You know, she’s had a rough go, they found her in a garbage can with other kittens,’ and I was just, okay done, I’ll take her. She needs some love,” Tammy remembers.

And a lot of love they received. Kiwi was a lovely lady, full of sass and personality her entire 18 years. She loved people on her own terms. Her favourite place to be was on top of the cat house, watching the outside world. Her brother Cole couldn’t have been more different. He graced the world with his feistiness for only seven years as he fell ill. But he lived those years to the fullest, mischievous until the end, making sure to get into places he wasn’t supposed to and keeping his fur mom on her toes.

Even though Cole and Kiwi were adopted before our raffle was even an idea, the NS SPCA 50/50 is here to help the pets that come into our care, as strays, surrenders, enforcement cases. Pets like Cole and Kiwi, with different stories but in need of just as much care and love. Waiting for their Tammy to offer them the perfect home.

By playing our weekly 50/50 raffle, you are helping our furry friends until they find their people, but also helping our community. And who knows? You might be the next one whose phone will ring on a Thursday morning.

Paula Nalbaru

Paula Nalbaru is the Philanthropy Communications Coordinator with the Nova Scotia SPCA in Dartmouth. She’s a proud fur-parent and referee between her dog, Summer, and cat, Marshmallow.

Resilience in the Blizzard: A Tale of Community, Courage, and Compassion

February 21, 2024

By Ryan Toomey

In February, a historic blizzard enveloped Nova Scotia, challenging our resilience and the very fabric of our bond with each other and the animals we vow to protect. Amidst the snowdrifts and icy winds, the Nova Scotia SPCA, particularly our Cape Breton Shelter, faced an unprecedented test of spirit and determination.

The blizzard’s impact was felt deeply across the community, but nowhere more acutely than at our aging Cape Breton Shelter, a beacon for animals in need since 1977. With the storm threatening the structural integrity of our facility, a swift and coordinated evacuation effort was put into motion.

“The evacuation was a moment that tested our resolve and underscored the depth of our commitment to the animals in our care,” reflected Jenn, our Shelter Manager. “In the face of uncertainty, our team acted with unparalleled courage and efficiency, ensuring the safe relocation of our animals. It was a stark reminder of the lengths we will go to protect every life entrusted to us.”

Meanwhile, the blizzard rendered our thrift store inoperable, cutting off a vital source of funding for our shelter. Brenda Cunningham, our Thrift Store Manager, recounted the Herculean effort to reopen: “After the storm had calmed, our team faced mountains of snow between us and our mission. With sleds in tow, we made our way to the thrift store, knowing every moment we were closed was a moment lost for our animals in need. We shoveled for hours, fueled by determination and the knowledge that reopening as soon as possible was critical.”

The stories of dedication from our staff were mirrored by the overwhelming support from our community. Neighbors braved the snowy conditions to bring food and essentials to our shelter staff, embodying the spirit of communal resilience. “In times of crisis, the true spirit of our community shines brightest,” the Nova Scotia SPCA Team shared. “The support we’ve received has been overwhelming. It’s a testament to the bond we share, not just with each other but with the animals we vow to protect.”

As we navigated the aftermath of the blizzard, the challenges we faced underscored the urgent need for a new, modern facility capable of withstanding such severe weather events. The generosity and support of our community in these trying times have been our guiding light, fueling our commitment to recover and rebuild.

This blizzard will be remembered not just for the immediate challenges it presented, but for the stories of courage, compassion, and community it inspired. It has reaffirmed the importance of preparedness, the value of companionship, and the strength found in unity. As we move forward, we carry with us the lessons learned, the gratitude for the support received, and the determination to build a stronger, more resilient future for the Nova Scotia SPCA and the animals we cherish.

Your support, whether through donations, volunteering, or shopping at our thrift store, is more critical than ever. Together, we can turn the challenges of yesterday into the achievements of tomorrow, ensuring that we are ready to face whatever the future holds, with our heads held high and our hearts full. Thank you for standing with us, for being a part of our story, and for helping us make a difference in the lives of countless animals across Nova Scotia.

As we reflect on the resilience displayed during the blizzard and the unwavering support from our community, we are reminded of the path forward. The journey to recovery is underway, with immediate repairs to our existing facilities being our first priority. However, our vision extends beyond just mending what has been damaged. We are setting our sights on building a new facility, one that will stand as a beacon of hope and resilience, capable of withstanding the challenges of the future and continuing our mission of caring for animals in need.

The generosity of our community will play a pivotal role in this endeavor. Donations received in the wake of the blizzard will be allocated towards the necessary repairs and the care of our animals. Any surplus funds will contribute to the ambitious goal of constructing a new facility, ensuring that the Nova Scotia SPCA can continue to provide a safe haven for animals for generations to come.

“Building a new facility in Cape Breton is more than a project; it’s a promise to our community and a testament to our unwavering commitment to the families and pets of Cape Breton,” says Elizabeth Murphy, CEO of the Nova Scotia SPCA. “I’ve always believed that Cape Breton embodies the spirit of resilience and community, and what we need as we work towards one day creating a state-of-the-art facility on the island.”

We invite you to be a part of this crucial phase of our journey. Your support can help turn the dream of a new facility into a reality, offering a brighter, safer future for countless animals. To contribute, please visit our donation page at www.novascotiaspca.ca/helpnow. Together, we can recover from this storm and build a stronger foundation for the animals and communities we serve.

Thank you for your continued support, compassion, and belief in our mission.

Ryan Toomey

Ryan is a Development Officer with the Nova Scotia SPCA and proud adoptive fur-papa to Jake and Sam. He is determined to ensure homeless pets get the help they deserve.

A Lottery of Love: The SPCA 50/50

September 20, 2023

By Judy Layne

Is it possible that a single lottery can show love for animals and people too??? Paws-itively! The SPCA weekly 50/50 lottery does exactly that. At their core, the SPCA is all about animals. But they’re also about supporting Nova Scotia families, especially in these tough times. In fact, the SPCA started the 50/50 draw because they wanted to find a way to raise crucial funds for homeless pets AND help animal lovers – a definite win-win. Many lucky animal lovers have taken home thousands of dollars, all while supporting homeless pets.

I caught up with Nancy Bedford, who won the weekly 50/50 on August 3rd. The jackpot hit an amazing $8,805 – Nancy won half with the other half going directly to helping homeless pets this busy summer season. Nancy exclaimed “When I learned that I was the lucky winner, it was an immediate reaction to donate some of the winnings back to the SPCA for the animals.” So, Nancy made an extra special donation of $400!

Nancy first found out about the 50/50 lottery by following the SPCA on Twitter. She said “I buy tickets regularly now. My thought is that it is always a WIN for the animals, so why not purchase tickets if I can……It’s such a great cause. I have always been a supporter of the SPCA. When I think of all the work put in to helping animals through the hurricanes, wildfires, floods and every-day circumstances that lead to the SPCA being involved, I am drawn to trying to help where I can. The SPCA does such great work! They are amazing.”

Nancy and her husband Chris Boyling have been regular supporters of animal rescue organizations. She shared “We have been blessed with the ability to adopt 7 deserving rescue dogs over the years, and it is organizations like the SPCA that are true heroes in saving lives and enriching families. We lived in Ontario prior to Nova Scotia and adopted from the OSPCA and Lab Rescue Ontario. All our dogs had amazing stories and each one gave us such unconditional love. Our last rescue dog Maggie passed away at age 15 in May 2022. It was heartbreaking – she had been with us for years and was an awesome doggie sister to our other dogs. When she passed, it was like we lost all of them all over again. While we are currently ‘empty dog nesters’, we will eventually welcome another wonderful dog into our lives and cannot wait!”

Nancy’s support of the Nova Scotia SPCA extends beyond the 50/50. She has also volunteered at the Dartmouth Shelter as a dog walker and cat cuddler. “I can’t describe how amazing it is to see their eyes perk up when given some love and affection,” related Nancy. These incredible creatures are all deserving of the most wonderful lives and they have that ‘I’m ready to give you unconditional love’ look in their eyes.” Nancy has also participated in fund-raisers and charity walks/runs.

Nancy and Chris also try to donate much-needed shelter supplies whenever they see a request on social media. Nancy shared “When our Lab Hunter passed in January 2021 and our Yorkie-Poo Maggie in May 2022, we donated food, blankets, crates, shampoo, absolutely anything that may be helpful and useful. We also drop off/donate household items for sale at the SPCA Thrift Store in Dartmouth. We’ll do anything to try and help out. We only wish we could do more.”

Nancy encourages everyone to support the 50/50 lottery. “It’s a kind, loving, wonderful way to help and is definitely a win-win. It’s something good that I can do. I may not be able to make a huge difference, but together as a caring community of supporters, every small donation adds up.”

I asked Nancy what inspires her and Chris to be so giving. “We have always been animal lovers and advocates,” she replied. “All the dogs we have had were dearly loved family members and each holds a special place in our hearts. One of our sweet dogs in particular – Angel – who was rescued from a puppy mill, inspires us. We had a special bond, a connection, that is hard to describe in words.” Please read about Angel below.

You can show YOUR love for homeless animals and Nova Scotian families from the comfort of your home. Please show your support by buying a 50/50 ticket. Who knows – you could be one click away from being the next lucky winner! Click here.

We wanted to honor the memory of Angel, Nancy’s and Chris’s beautiful Lab rescue, who shared their life for 5 wonderful years.

“She did not have a name when she arrived at the shelter. She was rescued from a horrific situation – a puppy mill where most of the cats and dogs did not survive. She was a scared petite black Lab about 8 years old. When we read her story, tears rolled down our faces. This little darling had never been around people (except the loving folks at the OSPCA) and since being rescued, she had undergone many surgeries. In the puppy mill, she was forced to have many litters, had mange skin disease and because she was stuck in a tiny crate, her gait was unstable. She had never had the opportunity to play or do fun dog things that all family pets should have.

We adopted her and named her Angel.

After having spent 6 months at the shelter, the officers and staff at the OSPCA were overjoyed when Angel left with us, in her new bright pink collar and toward a loving life. We were told by the SPCA that Angel might not do ‘dog things’ like we were used to. She may just lay on her bed. We were fine with that. It was all about giving her the best life for her remaining days and filling her days with love and compassion.

Well, it took only a couple of days for Angel to become comfortable in the household, mastering the stairs, loving lying on the couch, sleeping on our bed and going for walks. Our beautiful Angel had a wonderful 5 more years of her life with us and her other dog sisters and brothers. Her life was filled with all the love in the world and Angel gave that back to us a million times.”

Judy Layne

Judy is a dedicated volunteer with the Nova Scotia SPCA and proud adoptive fur-mama to Linc. She is committed to speaking for animals who cannot speak for themselves.

At Long Last, Bumbo Finds Love

September 20, 2023

By Judy Layne

Anyone who has been to an SPCA Shelter knows how caring, dedicated and hard-working the staff there are. They often take their work home with them. And sometimes, that work has four paws. Case in point – Jenna, the amazing Operations Manager at the SPCA Colchester Shelter who opened her heart and home to Bumbo, a tiny 10-year-old dog who needed love and a fresh start. Here’s their story.

Before being brought to the Pictou SPCA, Bumbo had two different homes. Bumbo was in rough shape when she arrived at the shelter. She had sparse/missing fur on her back and entire hind end; the fur that was left was brass-coloured from constant licking and chewing. She needed dental surgery and multiple extractions. During the veterinary exam, a corneal ulcer was found in her left eye, along with forgotten sutures from a previous surgery, causing damage and extreme discomfort. She required medicated baths for her skin and was put on eye medication three times a day for several weeks.

Providing needed medical care was just the first step in Bumbo’s recovery. Given her history, she was understandably very untrusting with people. She hated getting her eye medication and being returned to her kennel. Bumbo was eventually transferred to the Colchester shelter where there were a few more experienced dog handlers. That’s where Bumbo met Jenna and when her life changed.

Jenna related “We were fortunate to be able to keep Bumbo in the office with us instead of putting her in a kennel. That made a huge difference. It took a while, but Bumbo slowly began to trust us. Letting her adjust to us in her own time was key to helping her. She became affectionately known as ‘Bumble Bee’ at the shelter.”

After two months at the shelter, Bumbo was medically cleared and her behaviour had improved, so she was put up for adoption. Applications came flying in. She was adopted quickly, but it was less than an hour before she was returned. Jenna shared “It wasn’t anything the family did; Bumble Bee just isn’t very good with first impressions. I thought she needed someone who knows more about dog behaviour and can communicate with her a bit more effectively. I knew I was up to the challenge.”

Jenna had always had an immense love for animals. She graduated from the NS Agricultural College where she became fascinated with animal behaviour. She then enrolled in a behaviour analysis course where she learned more about training principles and practiced dog training. Two years later, she returned to school to earn her degree in Bioveterinary Science where her interest continued to grow. Jenna said “To my delight, there was a job posting for the SPCA – I’ve never looked back! I absolutely love what I do here. It’s such a different place to work – so busy, so sad sometimes, but fulfilling in SO many ways.”

Jenna was drawn to Bumble Bee from the start. “She had such a spicy attitude and when she finally let us in, the feeling was just….wonderful,” recalled Jenna. “There’s such an incredible bond that forms when an animal with behaviour issues is so untrusting and then they finally accept you. When the other family adopted her, a bit of my heart was broken seeing her go. We always want the animals adopted out to good homes quickly, but I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t overjoyed when I saw her coming back. I took her home to ‘foster’ her that night, but I knew we belonged together.” Jenna formally adopted Bumbo, now lovingly called ‘Bum,’ on January 2nd.

Surprisingly, Bum adjusted to her new home quickly. “She was a bit ‘iffy’ about my partner Thomas at first and ‘told him off’ a time or two,” chuckled Jenna. “But she soon saw that Thomas was kind too. We kept asking ourselves ‘How does she fit in here so well?! She never cried or fussed and was content to lie down on me or beside me.”

Bum was initially apprehensive about the couple’s other two dogs, 12-year-old Max and 10-year-old Duncan. Jenna related “They are quite a bit bigger than her and can come on a little strongly at first. Bum started trying to play with them almost immediately though, even though they didn’t seem quite as interested. She adores visiting my parents’ small dog, who is more her size and speed.”

Bum is definitely living her best life. Jenna said “She absolutely loves playing with her toys, chewing bones and car rides. Her all-time favorite pastime seems to be sticking to me like glue!” When Bum wants something, she will stand on her hind legs and move her front paws up and down repeatedly – it’s adorable. She always makes us smile and laugh.”

Bum has had a profound impact on Jenna’s life. “I feel like she was the missing piece that I didn’t even know I was missing,” shared Jenna. “She stares into my eyes and I know she is happy and is exactly where she needs to be.”

When asked about the role the SPCA played in giving Bum another chance at happiness, Jenna replied “I don’t know if she ever would have truly had another chance without the Nova Scotia SPCA. She had already been in two different homes before coming to us, and with her behaviour she really needed to find people who could understand and help her. The SPCA never gave up on her. She got the medical attention and affection she so desperately needed, and the staff listened to what she was telling them and nurtured her until she was able to start trusting people again.”

Jenna summed up how much Bum has blossomed. “When I look back at pictures of Bum at the shelter – before we were able to find a way to make things work for her – it breaks my heart. I can’t believe it is the same dog. The transformation is remarkable. She knows she is home, safe and loved. This would never have been possible without the Nova Scotia SPCA and all of the wonderful people who work and volunteer there.”

Please give other homeless animals like Bum a chance to live the life they deserve. Donate today.

Judy Layne

Judy is a dedicated volunteer with the Nova Scotia SPCA and proud adoptive fur-mama to Linc. She is committed to speaking for animals who cannot speak for themselves.

Patti & George, Everlasting Love

September 19, 2023

By Christa Jensen

George always had a soft spot for animals. Growing up in the country, surrounded by wildlife, he developed an appreciation for animals at a young age and was often the first person to speak up if he thought one was being mistreated.

Over the years, George found practical ways to help the animals he cared so deeply about, making charitable donations to animal welfare agencies, and even volunteering on the board of the SPCA Queens branch. George’s kindness and generosity were among the many things that drew Patti in.

“He just accepted others for who they were and was always there for anyone in need, especially animals,” she said.

When they first met, Patti quickly learned that there was a lot to love about George, including his two cats and German Shepherd, Wagner.

Patti recalls, “I never had any pets growing up but I was immediately smitten with them and seeing George’s compassion for animals made me love him that much more.”

During their 20-year journey together, the couple welcomed seven pets into their home, but it was Rusty who actually found them.

“One day while we were walking through the park, a little orange cat crossed our path, looking quite thin. As we got closer, the cat immediately came over and jumped into George’s arms,” Patti exclaimed.

Although they had recently said goodbye to their own cat and agreed not to adopt another for a while, Patti and George just couldn’t walk away from that sweet face. Out of concern that he may be lost, they took the little guy in to search for his owner.

“We tried for weeks to see if anyone knew where he belonged, nothing turned up!” said Patti.

As the days went by, Patti and George grew quite fond of their little buddy who they decided to name Rusty, after his auburn coat. From the first day they took him in, Rusty made himself right at home snuggled up in George’s armchair and the two became fast friends. To this day it is still his favorite spot in the house, probably because it reminds him of George.

As long as Patti could remember, George was drawn to animals, and they were drawn to him. “It could have been his gentle, caring nature…or possibly the pocket full of treats he always carried,” Patti laughed.

It was that incredible bond that moved Patti and George to rethink their legacy plans. The couple wanted to do something meaningful for their loved ones. Since animals were on that list, they updated their will to include a charitable gift for the Nova Scotia SPCA.

“Our love for animals inspired us to set up the P & G Fraser Fund. We discussed with the SPCA what we were looking to do and they ensured that everything was set up exactly to our wishes.” Patti continued, “We know that it takes a great deal of funding to keep a shelter running and to ensure that all the animals get the treatment and loving homes they deserve.”

To the surprise of many, the SPCA doesn’t receive any government funding for animal care or facility operations. Generous animal lovers, like Patti and George, have been the driving force behind the Nova Scotia SPCA for nearly 150 years.

Planned gifts like theirs, help assist over 15,000 animals annually and give the SPCA the security to plan for capital projects and respond to emergencies without hesitation.

Patti and George’s estate gift will ensure that hurt and homeless pets receive the care they need. “What an incredible legacy,” says Patti.

After spending 90 wonderful years with his loving family (both, two and four legged) George passed away in September 2021. He was laid to rest with his old pal, Wagner. In loving memory of her husband, Patti contributes to the P & G Fraser Fund annually.

As the Endowment grows it will generate support for the SPCA for years to come. Continuing the impact that George started so many years ago has been a great comfort to Patti.

“Having my cats beside me and knowing that we are helping other pets have a better life has gotten me through the hardest days,” she says.

“In a way, I feel like George is a guardian angel now — he’ll always be looking out for the animals.”

Pets give you unconditional love… and you have the powerful opportunity to make your love unconditional too. Learn more about adding a gift to your will here.

Christa Jensen

Christa is the Director of Legacy and Leadership Giving with the Nova Scotia SPCA. As a busy mom of two, Christa understands the importance of planning ahead for the future. She enjoys helping fellow animal lovers make a lasting impact on pets and families in need. Connect with Christa at 902-449-8513 or cjensen@spcans.ca

A Night of Laughs for a Great Cause

September 19, 2023

By Creston Rudolph

This summer has been a busy one on the site of the new North Nova SPCA located in Stellarton’s Albion Business Park. Construction has been progressing quickly on the new facility over the past couple of months. The building is looking great with trusses and sheathing completed over the shelter and the hospital, and the roof bracing completed. The community is buzzing with anticipation of the facility’s expected opening in late Spring 2024.

The North Nova campaign committee has been working diligently behind the scenes to raise funds to pay for the new facility. In addition, various community groups have stepped forward offering to help with the project.

One of these groups was the Curtain Call Players, a theatre group comprised of talented local actors and led by brilliant writer and director Colleen Hawley. For several years, they’ve partnered with local charities to help them with their fundraising efforts while entertaining the community.

The Nova Scotia SPCA and North Nova campaign committee is excited to announce that it will be partnering with the Curtain Call Players for a night of laughs at The Hockey Monologues—The Highlight Reel – Presented by Stones Superior Homes. The show is scheduled for October 20th at the North Nova Education Centre in New Glasgow. All funds raised will support the new North Nova SPCA.

Written and directed by Colleen Hawley, the play is the best of It’s Not Just a Game, The Second Period, and The Final Buzzer. The show is a comical look at hockey-related situations based on things she has witnessed at the rink during the more than 20 years she’s been involved with amateur hockey.

Volunteer event organizer and North Nova campaign committee member Emma Enman is excited to be part of such an important community event and project. She said that event guests will get to learn more about the new facility and the tremendous impact it will have on families living in Northern Nova Scotia.

“The Hockey Monologues fundraiser will provide an opportunity for attendees to learn about the new North Nova facility and how important ongoing community support is to the sustainment of the SPCA. The new facility will house a shelter, veterinary hospital, enforcement office and thrift store that will serve Pictou, Antigonish and Guysborough counties. It will improve access to these services for generations to come.”

Emma said that spectators have lots to look forward to at the show.

“Attendees can look forward to a fantastic, hilarious show along with an auction, delicious snacks, and beverages, and of course, the feeling of fulfillment from supporting our new North Nova SPCA. It will be an entertaining evening for all!”

Doors open at 6:00 pm and the play will start at 7:00 pm. Emma encourages everyone to purchase their tickets early to avoid disappointment.

“We’ve had a lot of interest in the show so far. The Curtain Call Players always put on a great performance and so many people want to support the new North Nova SPCA. We hope to sell out quickly.”

For more information, to purchase tickets or to make a donation, click here.

To learn more about the North Nova SPCA, click here.

Creston Rudolph

Creston is a Development Officer with the Nova Scotia SPCA. He and his partner Terri are proud parents to a cat named Tony (Colchester SPCA alum) and two Shiba Inu dogs named Charlie and Kuma. He loves connecting with SPCA donors to thank them and to let them know how big of an impact their gifts are making.