Virginia marked no-kill milestone, honored 80 shelters at Capitol event

RICHMOND, Va. (WAVY) - Virginia's commitment to animal welfare was on bright display at the State Capitol, where legislators, animal welfare leaders, and enthusiastic pets celebrated a remarkable milestone in pet lifesaving for the Commonwealth.

Best Friends Animal Society, a national organization focused on ending the killing of cats and dogs in American shelters, recognized 80 Virginia animal shelters that achieved or maintained no-kill status in 2024, saving at least 90% of the pets in their care.

During the event, these shelters received certificates and plaques, and the 26 state senators representing them were honored for their contributions, establishing Virginia as a leader in becoming the largest no-kill state in the United States.

Despite advancements in lifesaving efforts, Best Friends' data showed that 9,878 dogs and cats still need to be adopted this year to end the unnecessary killing of healthy, adoptable pets in Virginia's shelters.

A small shift—if just 1% of Virginians opted to adopt instead of purchasing from pet stores or breeders—could help achieve the no-kill goal for the year. Nearly two out of three shelters in the U.S. are already classified as no-kill, placing many Virginia shelters on the verge of reaching that benchmark.

The event encouraged attendees to adopt pets from local shelters or rescue groups.

Donahue emphasized the importance of adoption, stating, "Adopting a pet is one of the most impactful ways to help. Virginia would become no-kill if just 100 people in each Virginia House of Delegates district chose to adopt a pet this year."

Several key moments marked this celebratory event, including:

• Recognition of Virginia’s No-kill Shelters: 80 Virginia shelters and 26 state senators who represent them, were honored for reaching or maintaining a 90% save rate.  
• Paws for Change Display: A striking visual display representing 100 shelter pets in the Darden Garden signified how just 100 pets need to be adopted in each Virginia House of Delegates’ district for Virginia to become the largest no-kill state in the country. 
• Valentine’s Day Kissing Booth: The Richmond SPCA’s 2025 mascot, Myrtle, and other adoptable dogs from the Paws for Reading literacy program were available to share the love via smooch. In addition, middle schoolers in the Richmond SPCA's Animal Brigade service club expressed their affection for animals by writing heartfelt notes to Virginia’s lawmakers. 
• Adoptable Dog Meet-and-Greet: Visitors met adoptable dogs from the Richmond Animal League and the Richmond SPCA, with adoption fees covered by Best Friends Animal Society. 

The event highlighted the collective efforts in transforming animal welfare and ensuring a brighter future for Virginia's pets.

To learn more, visit bestfriends.org/virginia.