Virginia’s no-kill commitment: A big win for pets in the commonwealth
There’s a buzz of excitement in the animal welfare world right now, and it’s coming from the heart of Virginia. In a landmark move, Gov. Glenn Youngkin recently declared November as "Virginia Loves Shelter Animals Month," encouraging communities across the commonwealth to reach an incredible milestone in 2025: a no-kill Virginia. This isn’t just a declaration — it’s a rallying cry to all Virginians to join in saving lives.
And here’s the thing: We are so close to achieving no-kill across the state. If just an additional 0.1% of Virginians adding a pet to the family choose to adopt from a shelter rather than purchase a pet, Virginia would achieve no-kill status, making it the largest no-kill state to date.
When I heard about the governor’s proclamation, I felt a surge of hope. It’s more than just a title for the month; it’s a declaration of compassion and an open invitation to everyone in Virginia to make a difference. Virginia is known for its motto “Virginia is for lovers,” and what better way to live up to that than by showing love to the homeless animals in our shelters?
A path forward for every pet
In 2023, Virginians stepped up in a big way, adopting 71,000 dogs and cats from shelters across the state. And already in 2024, we’ve seen thousands more pets matched with new families. But the work doesn’t stop there. Recent data from Best Friends shows us the urgency of the mission: Nearly 9,900 dogs and cats were killed in Virginia shelters last year. Every single one of those lives lost reminds us why this movement is so important.
Yet there’s reason to celebrate and to feel optimistic. Of the 138 shelters in Virginia, 79 (that’s 57%) have already reached no-kill status. That means more than half of Virginia’s shelters are proving that it’s possible to save at least 90% of the pets in their care. But we still have 59 shelters working hard to get there — and with Gov. Youngkin’s call to action, they’re not alone.
Together for 2025
Achieving no-kill across an entire state (or, related to our broader mission, across the entire country) isn’t just the responsibility of one organization or one government official — it’s a community effort. For Virginia to be no-kill in 2025, it will take the commitment of animal advocates, local shelters and rescue groups, community members, and yes, pet lovers like you. Gov. Youngkin’s support is a powerful reminder that when local and state leaders join forces with the community, we can create transformative change.
Let’s take this proclamation as a reminder of what’s possible when we come together with one shared goal: making Virginia a place where every pet in a shelter gets the chance they deserve. So if you’re thinking about adopting, volunteering, or advocating, this is your sign. Let’s have Virginia show the nation what’s possible when a community commits to compassion.
As I look to 2025, I’m inspired by the progress Virginia has already made, and I’m confident that, together, we can meet this goal. It’s time for every Virginian to heed the governor’s call and help make Virginia a no-kill state. Because at the end of the day, it’s about love — and there’s no greater love than saving a life.
-Julie
