It has been too long since our last edition of Paws, Claws, and Laws—but it has not been a quiet period.

Behind the scenes, the Virginia Animal Protection Group has been researching, meeting, listening, writing, and turning ideas into practical proposals. What began as a collection of individual animal-welfare initiatives is becoming something much larger: a coordinated strategy to help Virginia modernize the systems that serve animals, the people who care for them, and the communities they call home.

Our work now reaches across legislation, local government, public safety, veterinary access, workforce development, humane education, data, technology, emergency preparedness, and community partnerships. The common thread is simple: Virginia can achieve more when these efforts are connected rather than pursued in isolation.

This edition offers a look at what we have been building, what we have learned, and where we hope to go next.

Building a Modern Animal-Welfare Infrastructure for Virginia

The most significant development has been the continued expansion of our proposal for a Virginia Animal Infrastructure & Modernization Council, or VAIMC.

This proposal grew from an earlier recommendation for a Governor’s animal advisory body. As our research expanded, it became clear that Virginia needs more than another committee that meets periodically to discuss isolated concerns. The Commonwealth needs a durable framework capable of bringing together government, higher education, animal-care professionals, agriculture, public safety, localities, nonprofits, businesses, researchers, educators, and citizens.

VAIMC is designed to help Virginia evaluate needs, coordinate expertise, test new approaches, measure results, and turn promising ideas into practical action. Its work would encompass companion animals, farm animals, equines, wildlife, sanctuaries, veterinary services, law enforcement, emergency response, and the people and organizations supporting those systems.

The developing proposal now includes:

• A statewide leadership and committee structure

• A First 100 Days and Year One action framework

• Pilot-community opportunities

• Data and technology modernization

• Workforce recruitment, education, wellness, and leadership development

• Public-safety and animal-cruelty initiatives

• Economic-impact and return-on-investment analysis

• Legislative and budget roadmaps

• Performance measures and public accountability

• A long-term modernization portfolio extending toward 2035

Our Master Initiative Register now contains more than 75 legislative, administrative, community, educational, and technology concepts. That does not mean we expect Virginia to tackle everything at once. The purpose of the register is to see the entire landscape, understand how ideas relate to one another, and identify the 10 to 15 priorities offering the strongest opportunities for action in 2027 and beyond.

The proposal has been submitted to Governor Abigail Spanberger’s team and is undergoing a detailed final review. Our goal is to provide state leaders with more than a list of recommendations. We want to offer a decision-ready framework showing responsibilities, partnerships, dependencies, potential costs, pilot opportunities, and measurable outcomes.

Animal welfare is not a stand-alone subject. It intersects with affordability, public health, public safety, agriculture, workforce development, education, housing stability, economic development, emergency preparedness, and the quality of life in every Virginia community.

More than 75 ideas are being organized into one coordinated modernization strategy—with 10 to 15 leading priorities to be identified for near-term action.

Local Innovation Can Create Statewide Opportunity

Some of Virginia’s strongest opportunities begin at the local level.

During the past several months, VAPG has taken a close look at Loudoun County’s Animal Advisory Committee and the broader network of county programs, nonprofit services, public-private partnerships, and community resources surrounding it. That work helped inspire an extensive proposal exploring how Loudoun could connect prevention, veterinary access, housing stability, volunteer and foster capacity, humane education, emergency preparedness, data, workforce development, and community leadership.

The lesson is not that every locality must copy Loudoun. The lesson is that every community can benefit from a structure that brings the right people together, identifies gaps before they become crises, and builds upon local strengths.

We are now considering how those lessons could support a James City County or regional animal advisory and capacity-planning initiative. One early example is Homeward Bound, a community project built around a straightforward idea: give trained public partners and participating locations access to slip leads and universal microchip readers so more lost animals can be identified and reunited with their families quickly.

This work also connects with Loudoun’s LEASH initiative and other prevention-oriented concepts that help keep people and pets together. These approaches recognize that animal welfare begins long before an animal enters a shelter. It includes access to information, pet food, veterinary care, temporary assistance, transportation, emergency planning, behavior resources, and help for older adults, veterans, families in crisis, and residents facing housing instability.

Our larger objective is to create a practical model that other Virginia localities can adapt—not a rigid statewide template, but a community “how-to” framework that identifies potential partners, program options, data needs, implementation steps, and ways to measure success.

Learning From the Animal-Cruelty Database Debate

One of our most important lessons came from the 2026 General Assembly session.

VAPG supported the concept of a statewide animal-cruelty database through HB 673. The proposal did not advance. In committee, much of the discussion reflected uncertainty about whether the legislation contemplated a public offender registry or a professional database supporting courts, prosecutors, law enforcement, animal-control officers, shelters, rescues, and other authorized users.

That distinction matters.

A public registry and a statewide professional database may overlap, but they are not the same tool. A registry generally publishes selected information about qualifying offenders. A professional database can help authorized users identify prior cases, connect information across jurisdictional lines, recognize patterns, improve enforcement, and make better-informed placement or ownership decisions.

The experience taught us that successful legislation requires more than a compelling concept. The responsible agencies and court-system professionals must be engaged early. Questions involving the database’s legal home, staffing, cost, access, due process, data fields, charge-versus-conviction status, retention periods, and use of existing court information need answers before legislators are asked to act.

We have therefore been rebuilding the proposal for possible consideration in 2027. That work includes:

• Outreach to Virginia’s court-system personnel

• Review of Florida’s developing statewide model

• Examination of local and regional Virginia registries

• Study of Chesapeake’s recent action and other community approaches

• Conversations with prosecutors, legislators, local officials, animal-control professionals, advocates, and potential technology partners

• A clearer explanation of the difference between a public registry and a professional statewide database

• Consideration of implementation support for smaller localities

The growing number of local registries demonstrates concern about repeat animal cruelty—but it may also produce a fragmented system in which rules, information, access, and coverage differ from one locality to another. Virginia has an opportunity to learn from those local efforts while evaluating whether a consistent statewide solution would better serve public safety, due process, animal protection, and government efficiency.

This is what responsible advocacy should look like: advance an idea, listen carefully, acknowledge what was missing, and return with a stronger proposal.

“The 2026 proposal did not advance—but the lessons from that experience are helping us build a clearer, stronger, and more implementation-ready solution for 2027.”

Turning Animal Data Into Community Understanding

Good policy begins with understanding what is actually happening.

Virginia’s reporting system includes hundreds of registered animal organizations and annual information involving nearly 230,000 reported animals across dogs, cats, equines, livestock, and other categories. VAPG is updating its working database with the latest available 2025 reporting so that our discussions with legislators, local governments, advocates, and community partners are grounded in current information.

Numbers alone do not tell the whole story. They must be placed in context:

• How many animals enter the system in each community?

• What services and organizations are available?

• How many veterinarians, animal-control officers, fosters, transporters, and volunteers support them?

• Where are the geographic and service gaps?

• How do housing, transportation, income, emergency planning, and access to veterinary care affect outcomes?

• Which programs reduce shelter intake or help reunite animals with their families?

VAPG’s Virginia Legislative Animal Welfare Portal and individual legislative district guidebooks are being developed to make this information more useful. The objective is to help each legislator understand the animal organizations, facilities, populations, legislation, challenges, and opportunities connected to the district he or she represents.

We are also exploring a Pet-Estimator and Community Capacity Planning concept. Better estimates of companion-animal populations could help communities anticipate demand for veterinary services, sheltering, emergency response, pet food assistance, spay-and-neuter resources, and other programs—even before animals enter a formal reporting system.

Data should not sit in a spreadsheet. It should help communities ask better questions, direct resources wisely, and measure whether new approaches are working.

Explore the Virginia Legislative Animal Welfare Portal:

https://vapg.softr.app/

Help Us Understand What Animal Shelters Need

Data can tell us how many animals enter Virginia’s sheltering system—but it cannot fully explain what shelter employees, animal-control officers, volunteers, fosters, transporters, rescuers, veterinarians, and adopters experience every day.

A recent Who Let the Dogs Out? video examining systemic challenges in animal sheltering raised important questions about capacity, staffing, resources, community expectations, and the conditions affecting animal outcomes.

VAPG has created the Virginia Shelter Systems Listening Survey to learn directly from the people who know this system best.

We want to hear:

• What is working?

• Where are the greatest gaps?

• What pressures are shelters and rescues facing?

• Which changes could make the greatest practical difference?

• What successful programs should other Virginia communities consider?

Your experience can help inform our conversations with local governments, legislators, community partners, and those involved in developing Virginia’s broader animal-welfare modernization strategy.

Watch the video

Complete the Virginia Shelter Systems Listening Survey

Please share the survey with shelter personnel, animal-control professionals, volunteers, fosters, rescuers, transporters, veterinarians, adopters, and others with firsthand experience. The more perspectives we receive, the better we can understand the system—and the stronger our recommendations can become.

Partnerships Turn Plans Into Possibilities

None of this work can be accomplished by one organization.

Our recent conversations have included local and state officials, animal-care professionals, rescue organizations, technology specialists, educators, businesses, community volunteers, and advocates with experience far beyond our own. Each conversation adds another piece to the larger picture.

We have explored potential collaboration with ReelTime Animal Rescue, whose educational storytelling and video capabilities could help translate complicated policy ideas into stories centered on animals, people, solutions, and measurable results.

We continue to develop Kids, Cats & K9s as a modern, accessible humane-education opportunity. We have also discussed rescue tax incentives, including whether enhanced support should be available when rescues accept animals with significant medical needs.

Community events continue to remind us that policy and hands-on rescue belong in the same conversation. At Pups & Pints, more than $510 was raised, Tigger and Hershey found homes, and a relationship with C&F Bank opened possibilities for broader support through its Virginia branch network. Homes Fur Hounds has now helped save more than 1,300 animals.

Our shelter-systems discussion inspired by the Who Let the Dogs Out? video is another example. We want to hear from shelter employees, animal-control officers, volunteers, fosters, rescuers, transporters, veterinarians, adopters, and community partners about what works, what does not, and what systemic changes could make the greatest difference.

Every initiative becomes stronger when it includes the people who will implement it and the people it is intended to serve.

And Then There Was Jody

Photo: Little Jody with one of our young neighbors—and already demonstrating that 2½ pounds is more than enough to win a very big place in someone’s heart.

Sometimes the most carefully considered plans are overturned by 2½ pounds of personality.

Grace and I recently welcomed little Jody, a 2½-pound teacup poodle, into our family. She came to us as a foster—but it did not take long for her to become the classic “foster fail.”

Grace and I have shared our lives with three toy poodles over the years. Each one left us with wonderful memories and, when we lost them, a space that could never quite be filled. From the moment we met Jody, there was little doubt that we wanted her in our lives. She reminds us so much of the little poodles we have loved and lost—not by replacing them, but by bringing back some of the joy, affection, and unmistakable poodle personality that made each of them so special.

Jody has quickly settled into her new role: making friends, attracting attention wherever she goes, and reminding us that sometimes an animal arrives in your life at exactly the right moment.

We love our little poodle, and we are delighted to introduce her to the VAPG family.

What Comes Next

The coming months will be focused on moving from a large body of ideas to a practical action agenda.

Our priorities include:

1. Completing the final editorial review of the VAIMC proposal.

2. Identifying the leading legislative and administrative priorities for 2027.

3. Continuing agency, court-system, legislative, and community discussions about a statewide animal-cruelty database.

4. Exploring pilot opportunities in Loudoun County, James City County, and other interested communities.

5. Analyzing updated 2025 animal-reporting data and incorporating it into district and statewide planning.

6. Developing partnerships capable of supporting research, technology, education, implementation, and public communication.

7. Inviting more Virginians into the conversation.

We are especially interested in hearing from local officials, legislators, shelter and rescue personnel, veterinarians, animal-control officers, law-enforcement professionals, educators, farmers, wildlife rehabilitators, emergency managers, technology specialists, businesses, volunteers, fosters, transporters, and citizens with ideas or experience to contribute.

If your community has an effective program others should know about, tell us.

If you see a gap that is not receiving enough attention, tell us.

If your organization would like to help test, evaluate, fund, or communicate a promising idea, let’s talk.

Virginia does not lack compassion. It does not lack expertise. And it certainly does not lack people willing to help. The challenge is connecting those strengths through a structure that turns good intentions into coordinated, measurable action.

That is what we have been building.

And we are just getting started.

Stay Connected

Virginia Animal Protection Group
Website:

https://www.vaanimalprotection.org/

Virginia Legislative Animal Welfare Portal:

https://vapg.softr.app/

Paws, Claws, and Laws Newsletter:

Bob Tubbs

This newsletter shares stories, legislation, law enforcement, public safety, and community efforts that protect animals and advance humane policy across Virginia.

Follow our work, share this edition, and invite others to join the conversation about Virginia’s animal-welfare future.

Bob Tubbs
Founder & Advocate
Virginia Animal Protection Group
2023 Recipient of the Animal Legal Defense Fund’s national Compassion in Action Award

Building Momentum: From Community Action to Statewide Impact

Laws, Paws, and Claws — May 2026 Edition

⏱️ Estimated total read time: 20–24 minutes
A comprehensive update on statewide animal welfare initiatives, education, technology modernization, legislative outreach, fostering, and community partnerships shaping the future of animal welfare in Virginia.

This month’s edition is intentionally broader and more interactive than previous editions as we continue building a collaborative statewide conversation around animal welfare, public policy, education, technology, and community engagement.

As you read this issue, we would love your feedback. Throughout the newsletter, you’ll find topics ranging from education and fostering to AI modernization, legislative reform, public safety, and statewide coordination efforts.

At the end of the newsletter, we’ll ask you to rate which topics interested you most on a scale of:

1️⃣ Least Interesting → 5️⃣ Most Interesting

Your feedback will help shape future newsletters, outreach efforts, Zoom discussions, and legislative priorities.

Feel free to jump to the sections that interest you most.

Section Guides

🧠 Policy & Strategy
Legislative modernization, statewide coordination, governance reform, and long-term planning efforts designed to improve Virginia’s animal welfare ecosystem.

❤️ Personal & Emotional Stories
The human and emotional side of animal welfare — rescue experiences, fostering, loss, and the moments that remind us why this work matters.

🐾 Foster & Rescue
Programs and partnerships focused on fostering, shelter support, rescue collaboration, and improving outcomes for animals in need.

⚖️ Systems Reform & Accountability
Conversations surrounding transparency, oversight, cruelty prevention, accountability, and improving statewide systems.

📊 Data, AI & Dashboard Innovation
Modernization concepts involving AI, dashboards, analytics, public data coordination, and technology infrastructure improvements.

🤝 Community Partnerships
Collaborative efforts involving schools, businesses, nonprofits, public safety professionals, and community leaders.

🚀 Future Initiatives
Emerging concepts, pilot projects, and future-focused planning efforts designed to position Virginia as a national leader in animal welfare innovation.

📚 Education & Leadership
Programs designed to educate, mentor, and develop future leaders while integrating public service, policy, compassion, and real-world learning opportunities.

In This Issue

Governor’s Animal Advisory Committee 🧠🚀

A proposed statewide coordination framework bringing together agencies, shelters, educators, public safety professionals, veterinarians, legislators, and community organizations.

Emerging Leaders Program 📚🤝

Developing future leadership opportunities involving policy, education, mentorship, internships, and public service.

Osher Lifelong Learning Institute 📚🧠

Teaching Animal Welfare Policy & Public Leadership in Virginia, including the use of AI as part of classroom policy discussions.

ReelTime, Empty Cages & Storytelling ❤️🤝

Using storytelling, media, and public engagement to help build empathy and broader awareness.

Kids, Cats, and K9s 🤝📚🐾

An educational initiative introducing compassion, civic engagement, and responsible animal care to elementary school students and families.

James City County Public Safety Initiative 🚀🤝

A developing pilot involving emergency pet rescue leashes, microchip readers, and public safety coordination.

Chewy & Systems Reform ⚖️🧠

Reflections on transparency, accountability, and lessons learned from difficult cruelty and injury cases.

Statewide Cruelty Data Framework ⚖️📊

Exploring coordinated statewide reporting, prevention, accountability, and modernization concepts.

Legislative Portal & Dashboard Expansion 📊🚀

How the Virginia Animal Protection Group portal is evolving into a statewide communication and innovation platform.

Meetings, Conferences & Outreach 🤝🚀

Upcoming meetings, statewide outreach efforts, conference participation, and opportunities to collaborate with VAPG.

Fostering & Community Impact ❤️🐾

Why fostering matters, how it changes lives, and how local organizations continue creating hope and opportunity for animals in need.

Over the past several weeks, something encouraging has continued to happen across Virginia.

Conversations are expanding. Partnerships are forming. Ideas that once existed only as concepts are beginning to evolve into real discussions involving legislators, educators, shelters, businesses, law enforcement professionals, veterinarians, students, and community leaders.

What we are seeing now is not just activity — it is momentum.

The work of improving animal welfare in Virginia is becoming broader, more collaborative, more data-driven, and more connected to the communities it serves.

“Animal welfare is no longer a niche issue — it intersects with education, technology, public safety, mental health, agriculture, and community wellbeing.”

Strengthening the Framework: The Governor’s Animal Advisory Committee

⏱️ 2 min read • 🧠🚀

At the center of many of these discussions is the proposed Governor’s Animal Advisory Committee (VAAC).

The proposal is designed to support:

• Coordination of 40+ legislative initiatives

• AI and technology modernization

• Public dashboards and transparency tools

• Workforce wellbeing

• Public safety integration

• Education and leadership development

• Emergency preparedness coordination

The larger vision is to create systems that help organizations and agencies work together more effectively while improving outcomes for animals, communities, and frontline professionals.

Investing in the Next Generation

⏱️ 2 min read • 📚🤝

Momentum also continues to build around the proposed Emerging Leaders Program.

We are working with Positive Leadership, including Adam Seaman, to help shape a program focused on developing future leaders in animal welfare policy, public service, and community engagement.

Next week, I will be meeting with Michael Fox, Senior Advisory to the President at William & Mary to continue discussions regarding educational partnerships and potential accreditation pathways. Civic engagement is W&M’s 2026 theme. Our goal is to engage staff and students in a variety of animal welfare efforts.

The long-term vision is to help build a pipeline of future leaders prepared to strengthen animal welfare systems throughout Virginia and beyond.

Teaching the Work: Osher Lifelong Learning Institute

⏱️ 2 min read • 📚🧠

This spring, I have had the opportunity to teach an Animal Welfare Policy and Public Leadership in Virginia course through the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute.

The course explores:

• Virginia’s animal welfare systems

• Legislative strategy and reform

• Accountability and transparency

• AI and modernization opportunities

• Community coordination models

One especially interesting aspect of the course has been incorporating AI tools into classroom discussions, allowing students to explore how artificial intelligence may someday assist with:

• legislative analysis

• public dashboards

• shelter analytics

• policy comparisons

• decision-support systems

The conversations throughout the course have been thoughtful, engaging, and forward-looking.

“The goal is not simply to react to problems, but to build systems that reduce crisis before it begins.”

Storytelling as a Catalyst: ReelTime and Empty Cages

⏱️ 2 min read • ❤️🤝

We are also exploring how storytelling can help bring these issues to a broader audience.

We are excited about a potential partnership with Krista Embrey at ReelTime.

In parallel, we submitted a proposal to CBS News to work with Steve Hartman on a concept connected to No More Empty Rooms.

If you visit the project website —

https://www.alltheemptyrooms.com/

— you will probably need a tissue.

Our proposal explores ways to extend the legacy of children lost in school shootings through scholarships and opportunities shaped by their families.

From that inspiration, we are also developing a parallel concept called Empty Cages, applying the idea of legacy and forward impact to animal welfare.

Because policy drives change — but storytelling helps people understand why it matters.

Community in Action: Kids, Cats, and K9s

⏱️ 2 min read • 🤝📚🐾

At Matoaka Elementary School, more than 100 second-grade students participated in this year’s Kids, Cats, and K9s program.

Over the past four years, more than 600 students and families have participated.

We would especially like to thank:

• Life with Pigs Sanctuary

• The James City County Mobile K9 Unit

• Busch Gardens

• PetSmart

• Zoom Room Williamsburg

• C&F Bank

The Giving Back campaign with Homes Fur Hounds will continue through the end of June, with a tentatively planned adoption and community event on:

June 22 at Frothy Moon in Williamsburg

(additional details to follow)

Programs like this remind us that lasting change begins not only in legislation, but also in classrooms, homes, and communities.

Building Local Partnerships: James City County Public Safety Initiative

⏱️ 2 min read • 🚀🤝

One of the more practical and community-focused projects currently being explored involves emergency pet rescue leashes and microchip readers for first responders and public safety personnel in James City County.

The initiative would include:

• Emergency pet rescue slip leads/leashes in public safety vehicles

• Microchip readers positioned with key personnel

• Quick-reference chip lookup guidance

• Coordination between emergency management, shelters, and animal control

The goal is to create a safer, faster, and more coordinated response system that benefits:

• Families

• Pets

• First responders

• Animal control professionals

• Shelters and rescues

• The broader community

It is a relatively small project with potentially significant community impact.

On the Home Front

⏱️ 2 min read • ❤️🐾

This work is deeply personal.

Last month, we said goodbye to our little boy, Jacque.

More recently, we also lost our little girl, Penny, a 17-year-old Miniature Pinscher who spent years faithfully by my side.

At the same time, we celebrated our foster Morgan, who recently found his forever home.

Morgan reminded me so much of our first little dog, Georgia.

We also helped support 6–7 transports in partnership with Homes Fur Hounds and Heritage Humane Society over the past several weeks.

“Their need for a chance at life is greater than our sadness for a few days.”

Real Cases and the Need for Better Systems

⏱️ 2 min read • ⚖️🧠

The case of Chewy in Virginia Beach raised broader questions about:

• transparency

• accountability

• records access

• enforcement consistency

We are grateful to Michelle Welch and the Virginia Attorney General’s Office for the guidance they provided throughout this process. Unfortunately, we have now reached the point where there is little else that can be done within the current system.

That reality has been deeply disappointing for many people who believed Chewy’s story deserved a fuller public examination.

Following conversations involving Michelle Welch and Mara, we were also introduced to Sofia, whose background, research, and perspective have already contributed valuable new ideas to several ongoing legislative concepts.

Sometimes individual cases become reminders of where broader systemic improvements are still needed.

Toward a Statewide Cruelty Data Framework

⏱️ 2 min read • ⚖️📊

One of the most important long-term initiatives now being discussed is the development of a statewide animal cruelty data framework.

The goal is to move beyond isolated local systems and create coordinated statewide tools capable of:

• tracking incidents

• identifying patterns

• improving prevention

• supporting law enforcement

• improving accountability

• helping guide policy decisions

Strengthening Oversight and Accountability

⏱️ 1 min read • 🧠⚖️

Ongoing conversations with respected leaders and professionals within Virginia’s animal welfare community have reinforced the importance of examining how oversight, accountability, and enforcement responsibilities are structured statewide.

There is growing recognition that modernization efforts should not focus solely on legislation, but also on how systems function operationally at the local and regional levels.

These same themes are helping shape the ongoing evolution of the Legislative Portal and future dashboard concepts.

The Legislative Portal: Building a Modern Animal Welfare Dashboard for Virginia

⏱️ 3 min read • 📊🚀

One of the projects continuing to evolve behind the scenes is the Virginia Animal Protection Group Legislative Portal.

What originally began as a way to organize legislative information is steadily growing into something much larger — a modern public-facing platform designed to connect policy, data, organizations, and community engagement.

The portal is evolving toward a more interactive dashboard model featuring:

• legislative initiative tracking

• committee and voting data

• district animal welfare profiles

• public dashboards

• AI-assisted analysis tools

• community resources

• positive initiative recognition

The larger goal is simple:
To create a system that helps connect people, ideas, organizations, and information in ways that encourage collaboration and informed decision-making.

Upcoming Meetings and Outreach

⏱️ 3 min read • 🤝🚀📊

The next several weeks will continue to focus heavily on outreach, collaboration, and relationship-building across Virginia.

Next week, I am scheduled to meet with Virginia Secretary of Agriculture Katie Frazier regarding coordination, modernization, and long-term collaboration opportunities.

I will also be meeting next week with Michael Fox at William & Mary to continue discussions surrounding educational partnerships and accreditation pathways for the Emerging Leaders Program.

We are also planning to attend the upcoming Joint Commission on Technology and Science (JCOTS) Full Commission meeting:

June 3, 2026 — 10:00 AM

Brinkley Commons
William & Mary — Williamsburg, Virginia

This meeting includes JCOTS members and legislative committee participants and presents another opportunity to continue discussions surrounding:

• AI integration

• infrastructure modernization

• public dashboards

• analytics systems

• future innovation opportunities connected to public policy and animal welfare systems

We continue encouraging JCOTS and state leaders to consider the animal welfare ecosystem as a pilot area for AI infrastructure modernization projects.

Animal welfare systems in many areas have changed very little in decades despite advances in technology and data systems.

The belief is that animal welfare may offer a uniquely practical opportunity to demonstrate how AI-assisted modernization can improve both efficiency and community outcomes statewide.

“The goal of these efforts is not division, but collaboration — bringing people together around practical, compassionate solutions that strengthen communities across Virginia.”

Looking Ahead

⏱️ 1 min read • 🚀🤝

We are planning to attend:

• TAFA Conference 2026 - end of July

• Animal Legal Defense Fund Conference - October (possible speaker)

• Additional statewide and national conferences

We would also love to connect with anyone planning to attend the upcoming HSUS Conference in Washington, DC.

Opening Your Home: Why Fostering Matters

⏱️ 2 min read • ❤️🐾

Over the years, Grace and I have had the privilege of fostering nearly 40 dogs.

Fostering saves lives.
It creates space.
It gives animals hope and stability.

Yes, it can be hard when they leave.

But their need for a chance at life is greater than our sadness for a few days.

If you have ever thought about fostering — even just a little — please feel free to reach out.

We need your help.

We Want Your Feedback

⏱️ 1 min read • 🤝🎯

Please help us shape future newsletters, initiatives, Zoom discussions, and legislative priorities.

Which topics interested you MOST in this month’s newsletter?

Rate each from:

1️⃣ Least Interesting → 5️⃣ Most Interesting

• Governor’s Animal Advisory Committee

• AI & Technology Modernization

• Kids, Cats, and K9s

• Foster & Adoption Initiatives

• Public Safety & Emergency Projects

• Legislative & Policy Reform

• Community Partnerships

• Workforce Wellness Programs

• Statewide Cruelty Data Framework

• Educational & Leadership Programs

What additional ideas or topics would you like us to explore?

We also welcome:

• local concerns

• statewide initiative ideas

• school partnerships

• fostering concepts

• technology suggestions

• legislative proposals

• collaboration opportunities

Some of the strongest ideas we are working on today started with simple conversations.

How You Can Help Right Now

⏱️ 1 min read • 🎯🤝

• Share this newsletter

• Follow our social channels

• Consider fostering

• Connect us with organizations or leaders

• Invite us to speak with your group

• Reach out with ideas

• Support local shelters and rescues

• Subscribe to support VAPG’s work

Coming in June

⏱️ 1 min read • 🚀📊

June’s edition of Laws, Paws, and Claws will begin exploring many of the individual legislative initiatives and proposals we are planning to pursue heading into the 2027 legislative cycle.

Let’s Continue the Conversation

If your organization, classroom, agency, business, rescue, or community group would like to connect, collaborate, or schedule a Zoom conversation, please feel free to reach out.

Some of the strongest partnerships and ideas we are working on today started with simple conversations.

A Final Thought

⏱️ 1 min read • ❤️

This work continues to grow because people care — and because people choose to get involved.

Every conversation, every foster, every student, every partnership, every idea, and every act of compassion helps move this work forward.

Thank you for being part of it.

Previous Editions of Laws, Paws, and Laws

• A Turning Point for Animal Welfare in Virginia

• From Compassion to Coordination

• Building Bridges Through Animal Welfare

• Community, Leadership, and the Future of Virginia Animal Welfare

Bob Tubbs
Founder & Advocate — Virginia Animal Protection Group

🌐 Virginia Animal Protection Group
📰 Paws, Claws, and Laws Substack
🏛️ Virginia Legislative Directory

Policy • Community • Leadership • Action

Bob Tubbs

This newsletter shares stories, legislation, law enforcement, public safety, and community efforts that protect animals and advance humane policy across Virginia.

🏛️ Virginia Legislative Directory — https://vapg.softr.app/virginia-legislators-directory

Policy • Community • Leadership • Action

What If Animal Policy Is Actually Health Policy?

When Hurricane Katrina struck the Gulf Coast, emergency officials issued a clear message: evacuate.

Many people didn’t.

Not because they didn’t understand the danger—but because they were told they could not bring their pets.

Some refused to leave. Others delayed. Thousands of animals were lost. And in too many cases, human lives were put at greater risk because emergency plans failed to account for a simple reality:

People will not abandon the animals they consider family.

That lesson reshaped national policy and led to the Pets Evacuation and Transportation Standards Act, requiring that pets be included in emergency planning. But two decades later, the deeper implication still hasn’t fully taken hold:

Animal systems are not separate from human systems. They are part of them.

A Health Conversation Hiding in Plain Sight

A widely cited study highlighted by Harvard researchers found that dog ownership was associated with lower cardiovascular mortality, increased physical activity, and reduced social isolation, with especially strong effects for individuals living alone.

That’s not just companionship—that’s measurable health impact.

At the same time, organizations like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and National Institutes of Health continue to highlight the growing public health burden of:

• loneliness and isolation

• chronic disease

• stress and mental health challenges

These are not small issues. They are among the most expensive drivers in our healthcare system.

And yet, we rarely include companion animals—one of the most accessible forms of daily social connection and physical engagement—in that conversation.

The Workforce We Rely On Is Under Strain

Across Virginia and the country, we are asking more than ever from:

• healthcare providers

• law enforcement officers

• judges and court personnel

• veterans transitioning to civilian life

These roles carry constant exposure to stress, trauma, and high-stakes decision-making.

The American Psychological Association has documented high rates of burnout and secondary trauma across many of these professions. At the same time, the Veterans Affairs and others have demonstrated that service animals and structured animal interaction can support reductions in PTSD symptoms, anxiety, and social withdrawal.

Many of these supports already exist—but in fragmented, inconsistent ways.

What’s missing is not innovation—it’s coordination.

Public Safety Depends on Understanding Human Behavior

Emergency management professionals understand something critical:

Plans only work if people follow them.

Katrina made clear that evacuation compliance drops when people cannot bring their pets. That insight remains just as relevant today—whether we are planning for hurricanes, flooding, or other emergencies.

Pet-inclusive planning is not simply about animal welfare.

It is about saving human lives by designing systems people will actually use.

A Changing Public Health Reality

At the same time, emerging risks like avian influenza remind us that human health, animal health, and environmental conditions are deeply interconnected.

The World Health Organization and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention describe this as a “One Health” framework—recognizing that many infectious diseases move across species and systems.

This has real implications for:

• veterinary workforce capacity

• disease monitoring and reporting

• agricultural stability

• emergency preparedness

Again, these are not separate conversations.

Connecting the Dots

Across these areas—health, workforce, public safety, and disease prevention—a pattern emerges:

• Companion animals can support physical and mental health

• Animal interaction can help mitigate stress and trauma

• Emergency outcomes improve when pets are included in planning

• Public health depends on animal health systems

And yet, our policies, funding streams, and planning structures treat these as disconnected issues.

What if we approached them as one system instead?

🗳️ A Question for You

As this conversation continues, we’re interested in how others see this connection:

An Emerging Local Conversation

Here in Virginia, that question is beginning to take shape in early discussions at the local level.

We have recently started conversations with James City County, including engagement with Emergency Management, to explore how animal welfare, evacuation planning, and community health intersect.

These discussions are in the early stages, and no formal plans have been adopted.

But even at this stage, something important is clear:

Local leaders recognize that these systems are connected—and are open to exploring more coordinated approaches.

There is also interest in exploring the potential role of a local Animal Advisory Committee to help guide these conversations over time.

This is not a finished model.

It is a starting point.

A Statewide Opportunity

Across the country, states like California, Florida, and Colorado have made progress in areas like pet-inclusive emergency planning and disaster response.

Others, like New York, have expanded protections for pets in domestic violence situations.

These are important steps—but they remain fragmented.

Virginia has an opportunity to take a broader view:

To connect animal welfare with human health, workforce resilience, and public safety into a coordinated framework.

What Could That Look Like?

Not a single large program—but a coordinated approach that brings together existing and scalable efforts:

🏥 Human Wellness & Protection

• Service animal access and training

• Support for individuals in crisis, including domestic violence situations

• Programs that reduce isolation and improve daily health

🚔 Workforce & Public Safety Support

• Animal-assisted support for law enforcement, courts, and healthcare providers

• Rehabilitation programs such as pet-prisoner partnerships

• Post-incident and post-disaster support

🎓 Workforce Pipeline & Economic Development

• Veterinary and vet tech training pathways

• Tuition assistance and internships

• Emerging leaders programs across animal and public service sectors

🚨 Emergency Preparedness

• Pet-inclusive evacuation planning

• Regional sheltering strategies

• Coordinated response systems

Many of these efforts already exist.

The opportunity is to connect them—so they work better together.

Why This Matters Now

Virginia, like many states, is facing increasing pressure on:

• healthcare systems

• workforce capacity

• public safety resources

• emergency preparedness

When resources are constrained, prevention and coordination become even more important.

We cannot afford to ignore lower-cost interventions that help reduce higher-cost outcomes.

What Comes Next

The next step is not immediate legislation or large-scale funding.

It is conversation, coordination, and pilot efforts:

• Exploring local models like those beginning in James City County

• Connecting stakeholders across health, emergency management, and animal systems

• Identifying where small, targeted investments could have outsized impact

How You Can Be Part of This Work

This conversation is just beginning—but it will take collaboration to move forward.

If this perspective resonates with you, there are several ways to engage:

• Share your expertise or local experience

• Explore pilot opportunities within your community or agency

• Help connect this work to others thinking about health, workforce, or emergency planning

And if you believe in this approach, we invite you to support the ongoing work of the Virginia Animal Protection Group (VAPG) as we continue developing ideas, partnerships, and practical solutions across the Commonwealth.

A Final Thought

For a long time, we’ve treated animal policy as a separate issue.

But the evidence—and our lived experience—suggest otherwise.

Animals are part of how people live, cope, respond, and recover.

If we begin to plan accordingly, we may find that we are not just improving outcomes for animals—

we are strengthening the health, safety, and resilience of our communities as a whole.

Over the past several months, what began as a proposal has continued to take shape in meaningful and unexpected ways.

What we are seeing now is not just planning — it is movement.

Across Virginia, conversations are deepening, partnerships are forming, and the work of connecting animal welfare to public policy, education, and community engagement is gaining traction. This update reflects that progress — and the growing sense that something more coordinated and lasting is within reach.

From Ideas to Real Conversations

Since our last update, outreach has continued to expand across legislators, staff, and stakeholders throughout the Commonwealth.

These conversations are increasingly focused on implementation — how animal welfare intersects with:

• Public safety

• Workforce challenges

• Budget priorities

• District-level realities

Virginia does not lack ideas — it needs coordination, structure, and continuity to bring them forward effectively.

Strengthening the Framework: The Governor’s Animal Advisory Committee

At the center of this work is the proposed Governor’s Animal Advisory Committee (VAAC).

Designed as a coordinating body across the Executive, Legislative, and Judicial branches, the Committee would bring together agencies and stakeholders to align efforts that are currently fragmented.

Key elements include:

• Cross-sector representation and structured governance

• Coordination of 35+ legislative initiatives

• Development of data tools and public dashboards

• Integration of AI and analytics to support policy and enforcement

• A focus on workforce wellbeing across veterinarians, ACOs, shelter staff, and related professions

• A sustainable funding model tied to economic and workforce development

The goal is a coordinated, accountable system that can endure over time.

Investing in the Next Generation

Momentum continues to build around the Emerging Leaders Program, with growing collaboration.

We are working with Positive Leadership, including Adam Seaman, to help shape a program that connects leadership development with real-world impact in animal welfare policy and community initiatives.

Participants will have opportunities to engage in:

• Policy development

• Legislative support

• Community programs

• Data and innovation efforts

We are also planning outreach to William & Mary to explore potential accreditation pathways, helping establish animal welfare policy and leadership as a recognized academic track.

Teaching the Work: Osher Lifelong Learning Institute

This spring, I am teaching an Animal Welfare Policy and Public Leadership course through the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute.

The course is structured across three weeks:

Week 1: Understanding the Landscape
An overview of animal welfare systems, including the roles of local governments, shelters, law enforcement, and state agencies, along with current challenges in Virginia.

Week 2: Policy, Law, and Enforcement
A deeper look at how laws are developed and enforced, including legislative strategy, case studies, and the challenges of consistency and accountability across jurisdictions.

Week 3: Building Better Systems
A forward-looking discussion on solutions, including the Governor’s Animal Advisory Committee, statewide data frameworks, workforce considerations, and the role of technology and coordination.

I’m happy to share class notes and materials with anyone interested.

Storytelling as a Catalyst: ReelTime and Empty Cages

We are exploring how storytelling can help bring these issues to a broader audience.

We are excited about a potential partnership with Krista Embrey at ReelTime, focused on elevating how animal welfare work is communicated.

In parallel, we submitted a proposal to CBS News to work with Steve Hartman on a concept connected to No More Empty Rooms.

No More Empty Rooms is a deeply moving project that tells the stories of families who lost children in school shootings, preserving their bedrooms exactly as they were on the day they left for school.

If you take a moment to visit the site —

https://www.alltheemptyrooms.com/

— you will likely need a tissue.

The project is a powerful reminder of lives interrupted, and of the enduring love and memory carried by families.

Our proposal explores ways to extend those children’s legacies, working with families to create scholarships and opportunities that reflect the paths those children might have taken.

From that inspiration, we are also developing Empty Cages — applying the idea of legacy and forward impact to animal welfare.

The goal is to move beyond reacting to problems and instead build systems where harm is reduced — where prevention, coordination, and compassion lead to better outcomes.

Because policy drives change — but storytelling helps people understand why it matters.

Community in Action: Kids, Cats, and K9s

One of the most meaningful parts of this work continues to happen in the community.

At Matoaka Elementary School, more than 100 second-grade students participated in this year’s Kids, Cats, and K9s program, culminating in a PTA-hosted celebration with parents and siblings.

Kids, Cats, and K9s is designed to introduce students to the values of compassion, responsibility, and respect for animals through age-appropriate learning and engagement.

Students learn:

• The basics of animal care and welfare

• The importance of kindness and empathy

• How their actions impact animals and their community

The program extends beyond the classroom, encouraging families to engage and reinforce these lessons at home.

Over the past four years, more than 600 second-grade students — along with their families — have participated.

This is where lasting change begins — through education, culture, and early experiences.

We are especially grateful to the sponsors who made this program possible:

• Busch Gardens

• PetSmart

• Zoom Room Williamsburg

• C&F Bank

On the Home Front

This work is deeply personal.

Last month, we said goodbye to our little boy, Jacque, adopted through Homes Fur Hounds eight years ago. He is deeply missed.

At the same time, we celebrated our foster Morgan (Homes Fur Hounds), who found his forever home last week.

We also supported 6–7 transports in partnership with Homes Fur Hounds and Heritage Humane Society.

These moments — both difficult and hopeful — are a reminder of why this work matters.

Real Cases and the Need for Better Systems

Real-world cases continue to highlight where systems are working — and where they need to improve.

The case of Chewy in Virginia Beach is one example that has brought attention to challenges around transparency, enforcement, and access to information.

Chewy suffered serious injuries, and efforts to obtain clarity have raised broader questions about how cases are documented and reviewed.

As part of this effort, we have:

• Filed complaints related to custody and records requirements

• Engaged with the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS)

• Begun working with the Virginia Attorney General’s Office

While this is one case, it reflects systemic issues — reinforcing the need for better coordination, clearer standards, and improved accountability.

Toward a Statewide Cruelty Data Framework

One of the most important areas of focus is the development of a statewide animal cruelty data framework.

Currently, Virginia has no unified system for tracking cases. While some localities have begun developing registries, these efforts are limited and disconnected.

A statewide approach would create a case-based, coordinated system that:

• Tracks incidents and outcomes across jurisdictions

• Identifies repeat patterns and escalation risks

• Supports law enforcement and prosecutors

• Provides anonymized, public-facing data

• Integrates with existing systems

Access would be tiered and safeguarded, ensuring appropriate use while protecting privacy and due process.

The goal is not just to respond — but to prevent harm and improve outcomes across the system.

Expanding Public Engagement

We will be expanding efforts across:

• YouTube

• Instagram

• LinkedIn

• Additional media platforms

Growing the Community

We’ve reached Facebook’s 5,000 friend limit — thank you.

To stay connected, please follow our page and join our groups.

Legislative Updates

We attended the 2026 post-legislative session and will soon publish updates and voting records in the Legislative Portal.

Looking Ahead

We are planning to attend:

• TAFA Conference – July 31 (Washington, DC)

• Animal Legal Defense Fund Conference – October 16–18 (Washington, DC)

I’m honored to have received the ALDF 2023 Compassion in Action Award, and have submitted four proposals to speak at this year’s conference.

If you are planning to attend, please let me know — I would welcome the opportunity to connect.

Opening Your Home: Why Fostering Matters

Over the years, Grace and I have fostered nearly 40 dogs.

Most recently, Morgan found his forever home — and reminded me of our first dog, Georgia, who passed four years ago. Her photo is still on my phone.

Fostering changes you.

You give them a safe place, and in return, they leave a lasting mark.

Yes, it’s hard when they leave.

But their need for a chance at life is greater than our sadness for a few days.

If you’re in Williamsburg:

• Homes Fur Hounds (small dogs)

• Heritage Humane Society (all animals)

If you’ve ever thought about fostering — please reach out.

We need your help.

A Final Thought

This work continues to grow because people care.

If this resonated with you:

• Please share this newsletter

• Stay engaged

• Consider supporting the work

A paid subscription directly supports the Virginia Animal Protection Group, helping advance policy, education, and community efforts across Virginia.

Every action helps.

Thank you for being part of it.

—

Bob Tubbs
Virginia Animal Protection Group
Paws, Claws, and Laws

Over the past two months, something meaningful has been taking shape in Virginia.

What began as a series of conversations has evolved into draft policy frameworks, legislative strategies, data tools, visual materials, and sustained engagement with lawmakers and agency leaders. More importantly, it has begun to change how animal welfare is discussed — not as a side issue or a collection of isolated bills, but as a systems issue that touches public safety, workforce stability, technology, agriculture, education, and community wellbeing.

This newsletter is a pause to take stock — to share what has been built, what we’ve learned through real cases, and why this moment matters.

What We’ve Been Building

The focus of the last several weeks has not been a single bill or campaign. It has been infrastructure — the kind that allows reform to last beyond election cycles and budget windows.

That work includes:

A Governor’s Animal Advisory Committee framework
We developed a comprehensive proposal for a Virginia Animal Advisory Committee (VAAC), designed to coordinate animal welfare across agencies and branches of government. The framework aligns with Virginia’s No-Kill goals, recent bipartisan reforms, and the Commonwealth’s growing interest in AI-driven governance. It outlines structure, subcommittees, timelines, accountability tools, and sustainable funding pathways. The proposal is available if you would like to read it. Email me.

A portfolio of 35+ legislative initiatives
Rather than isolated ideas, more than 35 initiatives were organized across agriculture, public safety, judicial reform, workforce development, education, technology, and tax policy — each mapped to likely committees, fiscal ranges, and stakeholder partners. The goal is coherence, not clutter.

District-level legislative guidebooks and analytics
We continued building individualized guidebooks for House and Senate members, providing district-specific snapshots that include shelters and rescues, farms and wildlife assets, cruelty case patterns, workforce pressures, and economic impact. These tools are meant to inform policymaking, not score points.

A Virginia Animal Welfare Center of Excellence vision
To ensure long-term impact, we drafted a vision for a statewide Center of Excellence — a hub for training, certification, AI pilots, research partnerships, and revenue-generating programs. This would help move animal welfare careers from constant crisis response to strategic planning and innovation.

Workforce wellness and recognition concepts
Veterinarians, animal control officers, shelter staff, prosecutors, farmers, and law enforcement face extraordinary stress. We expanded statewide wellness frameworks and recognition ideas grounded in national best practices, with the goal of improving retention, morale, and resilience.

The Conversations Are Catching Up to the Work

This work has moved well beyond internal planning.

Over the past several weeks, we have conducted individualized Zoom briefings with Virginia legislators and their staff, tailored to each district’s animal welfare landscape. These briefings incorporate local shelters and rescues, farm and wildlife considerations, cruelty case trends, workforce challenges, and committee assignments. To date, we have held more than a dozen one-on-one legislative meetings, with additional conversations scheduled.

These have not been generic advocacy calls. They have been working sessions focused on how animal welfare intersects with public safety, fiscal responsibility, workforce stability, and community resilience.

In parallel, we engaged Executive Branch leadership. On August 13, we met with Secretary of Agriculture Matthew Lohr, State Veterinarian Dr. Charles Broaddus, and Project Manager Josie Rao to discuss integrating animal welfare into statewide planning. That conversation reinforced two themes: the importance of data-driven coordination, and the need to submit polished materials for review by the Governor’s policy team.

As this effort has matured, it has also become clear that sustained progress requires institutional continuity. With that in mind, I have formally applied for a role within the Spanberger administration, seeking placement on her policy or legislative team where I can help advance the Governor’s Animal Advisory Committee concept and support cross-agency, cross-branch coordination.

This application is not about a title. It is about ensuring that the work being built has an internal champion who understands both policy mechanics and the lived realities of shelters, veterinarians, animal control officers, farmers, and communities across Virginia.

From Policy to Accountability: Chewy and the Case for a Statewide Cruelty Database

Policy frameworks matter — but they must be grounded in real cases, real consequences, and real accountability.

Over the past several months, we have been deeply involved in the case of Chewy, a dog located in Virginia Beach, whose severe injuries and subsequent handling exposed significant gaps in how animal cruelty cases are documented, reviewed, and shared in Virginia.

For readers unfamiliar with the case, Chewy suffered serious physical injuries consistent with prolonged trauma, triggering urgent concerns about how veterinary findings are incorporated, how quickly records are produced, and how information is preserved when multiple agencies are involved. Advocating for Chewy required navigating not only his medical needs, but also systemic barriers that too often stand in the way of transparency.

As part of this effort, we requested Chewy’s custody and care records, which Virginia law requires animal shelters to produce upon request. In this instance, the Virginia Beach Animal Shelter did not provide those records as required, instead directing requests through improper channels and delaying access. As a result, we formally reported the shelter for non-compliance with the custody record statute and filed a complaint with the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS).

This step was not taken lightly. It was taken because existing laws only matter if they are followed — and because transparency is foundational to public trust in cases involving serious injury and potential criminal conduct.

What Exists Today — and What Does Not

Virginia does not have a statewide animal cruelty registry or database.

At present, two localities have recently launched local cruelty registries, limited strictly to cases within their own jurisdictions. These efforts deserve recognition. They represent progress. But they also reveal the limits of a fragmented system.

Local registries stop at jurisdictional boundaries. They do not communicate with one another. They do not allow pattern recognition when individuals move between cities or counties. And they leave shelters, veterinarians, adopters, and law enforcement without critical statewide context.

A statewide animal cruelty database, by contrast, would allow Virginia to responsibly:

• Identify repeat offenders across jurisdictions

• Support prosecutors and law enforcement with verified history

• Protect shelters, rescues, veterinarians, and adopters

• Improve consistency in charging and sentencing

• Focus on prevention and early intervention, not public shaming

The goal is not punishment for punishment’s sake. It is prevention, accountability, and protection — for animals and for communities.

Building on Chewy’s case and the emergence of local registries, we are now preparing for a focused meeting on 22 December with advocates, legal experts, and policymakers to explore how Virginia can move from isolated local efforts to a legally sound, statewide animal cruelty database. We are also actively seeking legislative patrons willing to engage thoughtfully on this issue.

We are grateful as well for the leadership of Debbie Dorino in Florida, whose work has helped inform national conversations around cruelty tracking and responsible registry design. Learning from others who have navigated these challenges is essential to getting this right in Virginia.

To keep this effort transparent and inclusive, we launched two complementary public forums and invite you to join us:

• Virginia Animal Cruelty Watch – documenting cases, tracking outcomes, and identifying systemic gaps
  👉 https://www.facebook.com/groups/845241718472206

• Paws, Claws & Laws – Virginia Legislation – explaining proposals, tracking bills, and fostering informed discussion
  👉 https://www.facebook.com/groups/1821422051837954

One space focuses on what is happening. The other focuses on what can change.

Why This Moment Matters

Virginia has rare alignment — and a limited window.

Election cycles, legislative onboarding, and the 2026 budget process are converging. At the same time, the Commonwealth has bipartisan momentum following the Envigo reforms, growing interest in AI and data tools for governance, and mounting pressure on shelters, veterinarians, and animal control systems.

Waiting would mean lost momentum, missed funding opportunities, and delayed relief for frontline workers and animals alike.

Acting now allows Virginia to lead — not react.

What Comes Next

In the weeks ahead, this work will continue to move from concept to execution:

• Finalizing and circulating the Governor’s Animal Advisory Committee proposal

• Continuing individualized legislative and committee-specific briefings

• Releasing targeted one-pagers and graphics to make complex ideas accessible

• Expanding Substack coverage with deeper explainers on tax credits, AI tools, shelter standards, and workforce initiatives

• Inviting feedback from practitioners, policymakers, and community members statewide

This is not a closed process. It is intentionally collaborative.

A Holiday Note of Gratitude and Hope

As we close out the year and look toward a new one, I want to pause and say thank you.

Thank you to the legislators, agency staff, advocates, veterinarians, animal control officers, shelter workers, farmers, educators, and community members who have taken the time to listen, ask hard questions, and engage thoughtfully. Thank you to those who have shared data, experience, and perspective — and to those who show up every day to do difficult work on behalf of animals and the people who care for them.

The holidays are a time of reflection, and they are also a reminder of why this work matters. For many families, animals are not secondary — they are companions and sources of comfort. For frontline professionals, this season often brings added strain and emotionally difficult cases. And for animals like Chewy, the stakes are very real.

My hope for the new year is that Virginia continues to choose compassion paired with accountability, collaboration over silos, and solutions that are both humane and durable. The work ahead will require patience, partnership, and persistence — but the momentum we’ve built shows what is possible when people come together with shared purpose.

Wishing you and your families a peaceful holiday season, and a new year filled with health, resolve, and renewed commitment to building systems that work — for animals, for communities, and for the Commonwealth we all care about.

With gratitude and optimism for what’s ahead,

—

Bob Tubbs
Founder & Advocate, Virginia Animal Protection Group
Paws, Claws, and Laws —

Bob Tubbs

This newsletter shares stories, legislation, law enforcement, public safety, and community efforts that protect animals and advance humane policy across Virginia.

🌅 A Season of Connection and Strategy

As fall settles across Virginia, the Virginia Animal Protection Group (VAPG) has been busier than ever — bridging communities, shaping legislation, and preparing for a new chapter of statewide advocacy.

From mental-health reform to senior-care partnerships and AI-powered data systems, the past six weeks have marked an extraordinary period of strategic growth.

🏛️ Governor’s Proposal & Transition Strategy

• Finalized the Governor’s Animal Advisory Committee framework, aligning animal welfare with Virginia’s AI Jobs Initiative and No-Kill Commitment.

• Outlined agency directives for:

  • Department of Taxation – growth-fund oversight and tax-credit modeling.

  • Social Services – veteran & crisis pet-care programs.

  • Judicial Branch – sentencing and wellness reforms.

  • VDACS / State Veterinarian Dr. Charles Broaddus – wildlife hubs and disaster response coordination.

• Engaged with Secretary Matt Lohr, Josie Rao, and Dr. Broaddus before the administration transition.

  • Secretary Lohr affirmed the proposal’s value but noted timing constraints, prompting creation of a Transition Engagement Plan for the incoming Governor in 2026.

  • The Advisory Committee is now positioned as an early-term legacy initiative.

💰 Grants, Funding & Timing Alignment

• Developed a dual-track funding plan to align programs with grant cycles:

  1. Short-Term Bridge Grants – foundation support to sustain Kids, Cats & K9s, Senior Pet Care, and Frontline Wellness through winter.

  2. Long-Term Integration – tie major programs into the 2026–2028 biennial budget.

• Identified January–March 2026 as the prime grant-submission window.

• Building data-backed, pilot-ready proposals so initiatives are “shovel-ready” when the next fiscal cycle opens.

⚖️ Judicial & Veterinary Wellness Reform

• Expanded wellness reform to include judges, prosecutors, defense attorneys, veterinarians, ACOs, shelter staff, farmers, and wildlife rehabbers.

• Partnering with William & Mary Law School, Virginia Bar Lawyer Assistance Program, and VVMA.

• Created the Virginia Frontline Wellness Initiative – a cross-sector framework addressing burnout and resilience.

• Visual summary and feature article now live in the VAPG Substack library.

🐶 Shelter & Workforce Innovations

• Launched Adopt-a-Shelter Worker, pairing citizens or businesses with shelter employees for mentorship and recognition.

• Advanced the Wildlife Euthanasia & Capacity Survey to assess veterinary readiness.

• Continued building the Virginia Vet Directory & Health & Wellness Act, mapping clinics, ownership, and service gaps statewide.

🏡🐕 Williamsburg Landing – A New Senior Pet Partnership

• Engaged in ongoing discussions with Williamsburg Landing to establish on-campus pet services and resident programs.

• Concepts under review:

  • Pet Care Center – grooming, vet transport, foster/adoption assistance.

  • Small cattery or dog interaction room modeled on Nautical Dog.

  • Kids, Cats & K9s for Seniors art and storytelling project.

  • Police K9 demonstrations, rescue visits, and volunteer training for residents.

  • Transition planning and pet trust advisory services.

• With ~40 dogs and 12 cats already on campus, Williamsburg Landing could become a statewide model for senior-living animal engagement.

🐾 Kids, Cats & K9s Expansion

• Renewed collaboration with Matoaka Elementary and introduced the program at Greenwood Christian Academy.

• Added Wall of Fame art displays and class mascot programs.

• Planned PTA adoption events, K9 unit visits, and field trips to Heritage Humane Society to strengthen student learning and empathy.

📊 Data & Transparency

• Analyzed five years of VDACS data to identify euthanasia trends.

• Created Canva charts and dashboards for Substack visuals and legislator guidebooks.

• Integrating analytics into VAPG’s AI legislative dashboard system.

🧠 AI Integration: “Scout” and Automation

• Progressed development of Scout, the AI bot that builds district guidebooks automatically.

• AI applications now include:

  • Detecting unlicensed pet sales online.

  • Generating legislative dashboards with live data.

  • Automating report and outreach drafting for upcoming sessions.

🐕‍⚖️ Legislative Additions

• Advanced several new proposals:

  • No Pet Gets Left Behind Act – requires eviction officers to check for pets.

  • Reward for Reporting Animal Cruelty or Hoarding – pilot whistleblower program.

  • Breed Discrimination Act – updated with Children vs. Pets infographic.

  • Kelsey Smith Act – reviewed for emergency location applications in VA.

🤝 Partnerships & Public Engagement

• Continued collaboration with Best Friends Animal Society and began dialogue with Virginia Farm Bureau.

• Explored JCOTS pilot with Dr. Kira Allmann to test VAPG’s AI and data systems.

• Delivered public comment to Virginia Beach City Council (Oct 7) on community-based animal welfare.

• Recognized Leslie Utley for technical support and AI advocacy tools.

✨ In Closing

This season has been one of foundation and foresight — preparing for Virginia’s next administration, refining funding strategy, and forging new partnerships that link animal welfare with education, wellness, and senior living.
From the courtroom to the classroom — and now to senior communities — VAPG continues to prove that compassion, innovation, and policy can work together to improve lives across the Commonwealth.

🐾 About the Author

Bob Tubbs
Founder & Advocate, Virginia Animal Protection Group
2023 Recipient — Animal Legal Defense Fund Compassion in Action Award
📧 bob.tubbs@cox.net | 📞 757-784-3322

🌐 vaanimalprotection.org
📜 Legislative Directory
📰 Paws, Claws & Laws on Substack

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➡️ Subscribe for upcoming stories on judicial wellness, senior pet care innovation, and Virginia’s 2026 animal policy agenda.
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Who We Are

The Virginia Animal Protection Group (VAPG) is dedicated to building a stronger, more compassionate Commonwealth for animals and the people who care about them. Our mission spans legislation, education, recognition, and community partnerships — uniting voices across farms, shelters, courtrooms, classrooms, and neighborhoods.

Chewy’s Legacy

In past newsletters, many of you have followed Chewy’s story. He was a beloved family dog whose life ended under circumstances that should never happen in Virginia. After his tragic death, Animal Control did not even take custody of him until after he was gone — a breakdown in procedure that speaks to systemic gaps in protection and accountability.

In Chewy’s name, we have engaged the Animal Legal Defense Fund (ALDF), connected with legal experts, and pressed officials for answers. Chewy’s story is no longer just a tragedy — it has become a catalyst for reform, demanding stronger oversight, transparency, and compassion in how Virginia handles its animals.

🔔 Be on the lookout: On October 7th, we are scheduled to deliver public comment before the Virginia Beach Mayor and his Board to ensure Chewy’s story fuels change statewide.

The Governor’s Proposal

Last month, we shared our vision for a Governor’s Animal Advisory Committee directly with the administration. This statewide body would unite agencies, legislators, and advocates to set Virginia’s priorities for animal protection, workforce needs, and welfare funding.

Key leaders already engaged include Secretary of Agriculture Matt Lohr, State Veterinarian Dr. Charles Broaddus, and Governor’s Project Manager Josie Rao, each bringing expertise in agriculture, veterinary medicine, and environmental science. We also held an important conversation with Dr. Kira Allmann, raising the possibility of making this initiative a JCOTS (Joint Commission on Technology & Science) pilot project — connecting animal welfare with the Governor’s broader AI jobs initiative.

📂 Subscriber Bonus: We are making the full Governor’s proposal presentation available exclusively to our Substack readers.

⏱️ Why now? Waiting another year would mean missed opportunities. With elections on the horizon and budget planning already underway, this is the critical moment to advance proposals that connect animal welfare to jobs, education, and innovation.

Recognition and Community Wins

At the November 2025 meeting of the James City County Board of Supervisors, local heroes will be formally recognized for saving the lives of Molly Haskins and her son after last year’s road rage shooting.

Our role has been to work hand-in-hand with Molly and county leaders to draft the recognition package, request Busch Gardens for family tickets, and prepare a draft proclamation and presentation materials. The Board’s recognition will highlight the bravery of EMTs, neighbors, and especially the teenagers who acted decisively in the chaos.

This project is a reminder that protecting animals and protecting people are connected — both require strong, compassionate communities.

Critical Legislation in Motion

Our legislative agenda now includes more than 35 proposals, but here are the ones we’re spotlighting this fall:

• Growth Fund Model – reinvesting state revenues into shelters, vet schools, and animal welfare infrastructure.

• Tax Credits and Breaks – easing the cost burden for families, farmers, and nonprofits caring for animals.

• Tuition Assistance – providing scholarships and loan relief to future veterinarians and animal control officers.

• Judicial & Veterinary Wellness Programs – expanded to cover shelter workers, farmers, law enforcement, and wildlife rehabbers.

📂 Subscriber Bonus: We are making the draft legislative language for these proposals available to readers of this newsletter.

💡 Why Wellness Matters: Veterinarians now rank third among all professions for suicide risk. Addressing this crisis — and extending support to shelter staff, ACOs, farmers, and wildlife rehabbers — is one of the most humane and urgent actions we can take.

Kids, Cats, and K9s: A Call to Schools

The Kids, Cats, and K9s program has already shown how powerful children can be in shaping compassion. Second-graders writing adoption bios, classrooms visiting shelters, and mascot competitions are bringing joy and visibility to animals waiting for homes.

Now we want to take the program statewide. We are calling on teachers, PTAs, and school boards across Virginia to bring Kids, Cats, and K9s to their classrooms. This program is not only about animals — it’s about raising the next generation of caring, responsible leaders.

Virginia Animal Protection Group: Progress in Motion

The Virginia Animal Protection Group (VAPG) is gaining traction:

• Legislator guidebooks are rolling out across House and Senate districts, giving policymakers data on shelters, rescues, farms, sanctuaries, and wildlife.

• Community recognition projects are lifting up local heroes and tying animal welfare to public safety and human compassion.

• National partnerships are growing, with great conversations underway with Best Friends Animal Society.

• Agricultural dialogue has begun with the Virginia Farm Bureau, helping bridge farm and welfare priorities.

• Advocacy tools are advancing thanks to the leadership of Leslie Utley, who provides technical resources powering VAPG’s digital platforms.

And we’ll take a bow here — because all of this has become possible thanks to the integration of AI tools (like Scout!) that make the work easier, faster, and more connected than ever.

Numbers That Matter

• 70% of shelter animal care in Virginia is taxpayer funded.

• 38,995 farms span more than 7 million acres in our state.

• In 2024–25, 83% of Delegates and 93% of Senators voted favorably for animal welfare legislation.

These aren’t just numbers — they show that animal protection is central to Virginia’s economy, communities, and politics.

Legislator Engagement

Our personalized legislator guidebooks are already in the hands of several Senators and Delegates, and early feedback has been encouraging. If you would like your representative to receive theirs, let us know — we will make sure they are equipped with the facts and stories from your district.

A Personal Note

This work is exhausting at times. But every recognition ceremony, every legislative draft, every child who writes an adoption story for a shelter pet reminds me why we keep pushing. Virginia is ready to lead — and I want you to know that every subscriber here is part of that change.

Call to Action

• Forward this newsletter to a school principal or PTA about Kids, Cats, and K9s.

• Share Chewy’s story on social media to keep awareness alive.

• Contact your legislator about the Growth Fund, tax breaks, or wellness proposals.

• Encourage friends and family to subscribe so they can stay informed and engaged.

Together, we can keep building — through laws, community, and the compassion that connects us all.

Bob Tubbs
Founder/Advocate, Virginia Animal Protection Group
2023 Recipient of the Animal Legal Defense Fund’s Compassion in Action Award
VA SCC ID: 11764024 | EIN: 33-1740935

🌐 Website | 📬 Substack | 📒 Legislative Directory

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Chewy was a 13-year-old Maltese cross who should have spent his final years surrounded by love and care. Instead, when he was finally brought to Providence Veterinary Clinic earlier this year, Dr. Alexandra Bedford discovered multiple fractures in all four legs. Chewy had been lying immobile for nearly three months, unable to walk, suffering silently.

Dr. Bedford explained, “If I were to make a human analogy, it was akin to an elderly person falling down the stairs and being left there for three months.”

What Went Wrong

• Clear evidence of sustained trauma was ignored.

• No charges were filed against the individuals responsible.

• A FOIA request for records was denied, blocking transparency.

• Instead, Virginia Beach Animal Control recommended euthanasia, despite claiming Chewy was “not in pain.”

When challenged, Animal Control’s veterinarian, Dr. Figueroa, suggested the cause of Chewy’s injuries might have been hyperparathyroidism. Dr. Bedford has made it clear this was impossible:

• The radiographs did not support this diagnosis.

• The necessary bloodwork for parathyroid hormone (PTH) testing was never drawn.

• Chewy was already deceased, making such a diagnosis impossible.

Even if hyperparathyroidism had been present, Dr. Bedford stated plainly: “Leaving Chewy immobile and untreated for months would still constitute chronic and willful neglect — criminal cruelty under Virginia law.”

X-ray Evidence:

Chewy’s body showed multiple fractures in different stages of healing — clear evidence of sustained trauma.

The Five Freedoms Every Veterinarian Recognizes

Every veterinarian is trained in the Five Freedoms — the foundation of animal welfare worldwide:

1. Freedom from hunger and thirst.

2. Freedom from discomfort.

3. Freedom from pain, injury, and disease.

4. Freedom to express normal behavior.

5. Freedom from fear and distress.

Chewy was denied all five. His case demonstrates why these Freedoms must be codified into Virginia law.

What Has Been Done So Far

• Dr. Bedford spoke out to WTKR News and the public. (News account in May Chewy's story.)

• FOIA request filed (denied, now under appeal).

• Legal review confirmed a five-year statute of limitations for animal cruelty cases.

• Plan underway to:

  • Appeal the Freedom of Information Act denial.

  • Press for accountability at the Mayor and City Council level.

  • File a complaint with the Virginia Board of Veterinary Medicine.

  • Engage Senator Aaron Rouse and Delegate Michael Feggans.

  • Ensure the Commonwealth’s Attorney reconsiders prosecution.

  • Get signatures on petition

🎥 Watch:

Dr. Alexandra Bedford explains what she discovered when Chewy was brought to her clinic, and why she reported it to Animal Control.

Introducing Chewy’s Law

Chewy’s case revealed systemic failures that demand legislative change.

Goals of a proposed Chewy’s Law:

1. Mandated Transparency – Require Animal Control to release closed case files upon FOIA request.

2. Independent Veterinary Review – Require second-opinion veterinary review before euthanasia in suspected cruelty cases.

3. Mandatory Prosecution Review – Require all cruelty cases to be forwarded to the Commonwealth’s Attorney.

4. Codify the Five Freedoms as Virginia’s minimum welfare standard.

5. Oversight and Reporting – Require annual public reports on cruelty investigations, charges, and outcomes.

Chewy’s Law will be introduced to the General Assembly in 2026, with bipartisan patrons sought in both House and Senate.

Why This Matters Beyond Chewy

Chewy’s case is not an isolated tragedy — it reflects systemic failures in enforcement, transparency, and accountability. That’s why the Virginia Animal Protection Group (VAPG) is working to integrate this case into broader reform:

• Governor’s Animal Advisory Committee (GAAC): Chewy’s case will serve as a case study for the GAAC, launching a working group on enforcement and transparency.

• Regional Animal Advisory Groups: Chewy’s story will be used in Hampton Roads and beyond as a training example: “How do we ensure no other Chewys in our community?”

• Other Legislation in Progress:

  • Judicial Engagement & Prosecutorial Reform: Training prosecutors and judges to take cruelty cases seriously.

  • Animal Control Standards 2025: Adding transparency and independent review to statewide standards.

  • Animals as Sentient Beings: Codifying the Five Freedoms as a legal benchmark.

  • AI & Transparency Tools: Ensuring public data access to prevent agencies from burying cruelty cases.

What Comes Next – The Plan

• October 7th: Dr. Bedford will address the Mayor and Virginia Beach City Council during public comment. Councilmember David Hutcheson and Mayor Bobby Dyer will hear her testimony directly. If you live in the area, feel free to show your support by attending the meeting in Virginia Beach’s City Hall.

• Press Coverage: Media will be invited to cover the testimony.

• Petition Launch: A “Justice for Chewy” petition will be circulated to show community support.

• Regulatory Complaint: Filed with the Virginia Board of Veterinary Medicine.

• Legislative Outreach: Senator Rouse and Delegate Feggans will be approached to patron Chewy’s Law.

🎥 Watch:

Dr. Bedford on why justice for Chewy matters to the whole community.

How You Can Help

📢 Contact Your Leaders – Demand Justice for Chewy
👉 Copy this message into your email:
“Chewy endured months of suffering with broken legs. We demand transparency, accountability, and prosecution in his case. Please act now.”

• Mayor Bobby Dyer
  📧 mayor@vbgov.com | ☎️ (757) 385-4581

• Councilmember David Hutcheson (District 1)
  📧 dhutches@vbgov.com | ☎️ (757) 385-8120

• Senator Aaron Rouse
  📧 district22@senate.virginia.gov | ☎️ (804) 698-7522

• Delegate Michael Feggans
  📧 DelMFeggans@house.virginia.gov | ☎️ (804) 698-1082

Closing Call

Chewy cannot speak for himself — but we can. His broken legs and silent suffering demand that Virginia Beach, and all of us, do better.

“Chewy’s story is not over. Together, we can make sure his suffering leads to real change — in Virginia Beach, across the Commonwealth, and beyond.”

Thank you, Dr. Bedford and the outstanding job you are doing make Chewy’s plight known.

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This Wednesday, I’ll meet with Matt Lohr, Virginia’s Secretary of Agriculture, at the invitation of Governor Glenn Youngkin’s office. The introduction came directly from the Governor’s team — a clear sign that Virginia is ready to take the next step in elevating animal welfare as a statewide, coordinated priority.

The discussion will focus on forming the Governor’s Animal Advisory Committee — a first-of-its-kind body bringing together leaders across sectors to create a comprehensive, unified approach to animal welfare in Virginia.

Why This Committee Matters Now

The Governor’s Animal Advisory Committee directly supports and advances several of Governor Youngkin’s announced initiatives:

• Virginia as a No-Kill State by 2025 – The Committee will help develop the policies, funding, and training needed to achieve and sustain this goal.

• AI Jobs Initiative – The Virginia Animal Protection Group (VAPG) is already using AI to track legislative priorities, map animal welfare services, monitor unlicensed pet sales, and improve emergency response coordination.

• Governor’s Record on Animal Welfare – From signing the landmark beagle rescue bills after the Envigo case, to supporting farm, wildlife, and companion animal protections, Governor Youngkin has made animal welfare a visible and bipartisan priority throughout his term.

• Workforce Development & Emerging Leaders – The Committee will use the Emerging Leaders Program to train the next generation of veterinarians, policy makers, wildlife specialists, and enforcement professionals.

Mission

To provide strategic, science-based, and community-informed recommendations to the Governor, the General Assembly, and relevant state agencies on all matters relating to the welfare, safety, and humane treatment of animals in Virginia — encompassing companion animals, farm animals, wildlife, and conservation species.

Proposed Leadership & Structure

The Committee would have two Co-Chairs:

• Judicial Co-Chair – representing the legal, enforcement, and public safety aspects of animal welfare policy and case outcomes.

• Veterinary Medical Co-Chair – representing science-based animal health, welfare standards, and veterinary workforce priorities.

Subcommittees will cover:

• Farm & Agricultural Animals

• Wildlife & Conservation

• Companion Animal Welfare

• Judicial & Law Enforcement Coordination

• Education, Outreach & Workforce Development

Each subcommittee will include specialized seats for:

• Finance & Economics – funding models, ROI, and economic impact.

• Technology & AI – innovation for tracking, mapping, and data-driven enforcement.

• Marketing & Public Engagement – statewide awareness and stakeholder buy-in.

• Policy & Legislative Affairs – ensuring evidence-based, strategic legislative proposals.

Funding the Vision

The plan is to fund the Committee’s work through a percentage allocation from Virginia’s Growth Fund, ensuring sustained support without competing with existing animal welfare budgets.

The Emerging Leaders Program will provide the human resources for research, coordination, and project development — giving students and early-career professionals real-world experience while building Virginia’s next generation of leaders in animal welfare.

Virginia’s Animal Economy — A Briefing Overview

Virginia’s animal sector is a major economic driver:

• 38,995 farms covering 7 million acres.

• Companion animal care generates hundreds of millions annually in spending.

• Wildlife conservation and eco-tourism attract millions of visitors each year.

• 70% of shelter animal care is taxpayer funded.

Expected Statewide Impact

The Governor’s Animal Advisory Committee is expected to influence:

• Legislation – prioritizing impactful bills.

• Economy – aligning growth with humane practices.

• Public Safety – improving coordination between law enforcement, animal control, and courts.

• Agriculture & Wildlife – elevating care standards.

• Veterinary & Shelter Workforce – retention and wellness support.

• Community Engagement – integrating local and regional priorities.

Accountability & Public Access

• Annual State of Animal Welfare in Virginia Report to the Governor and General Assembly.

• A public dashboard with metrics on No-Kill progress, AI adoption, and legislative activity.

• Regional listening sessions and an annual statewide summit.

Early Quick Wins

One of the first proposed projects is a statewide animal welfare survey of shelters, rescues, farms, veterinarians, wildlife rehabbers, and law enforcement.

• The goal: gather input on key needs, challenges, and legislative priorities to guide the Committee’s first year.

• This data will also serve as a baseline for future progress measurement.

Interagency Integration

The Committee will work closely with:

• VDACS (Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services)

• Virginia Department of Emergency Management

• Attorney General’s Animal Law Unit

• Department of Education

• Department of Taxation

Sustainability Beyond This Administration

The aim is to establish the Committee by statute, ensuring its continuation regardless of future political changes — securing its place as a lasting legacy.

The Leaders in the Room

• Matt Lohr, Secretary of Agriculture – lifelong agricultural advocate, farmer, and former VDACS Commissioner with deep ties to rural Virginia.

• Dr. Charles Broaddus, Virginia State Veterinarian – DVM and PhD with expertise in animal health, food safety, emergency response, and agricultural veterinary services.

• Josie Rao, Governor’s Office Project Manager – background in environmental science, agricultural policy, and interagency project coordination.

Their combined expertise ensures this Committee will launch with the right mix of policy insight, scientific grounding, and operational know-how.

More In-Depth for Paid Subscribers

Upon request, Paws, Claws, and Laws paid subscribers will receive:

• Detailed proposed committee structure and potential member list.

• Legislative language drafts, if necessary.

• Return-on-investment projections.

• Sector-specific impact analysis.

Your Voice Matters

This Committee is designed to represent all Virginians who care about animals — from farmers to rescue volunteers, from wildlife biologists to companion pet owners.

📢 We want your input.
Share this story, talk about it with your network, and send your ideas, concerns, or suggestions to help shape the Committee’s first year.

Together, we can ensure every animal in Virginia — whether on a farm, in the wild, or in a home — has the protection, resources, and advocacy they deserve.

A New Era for Virginia’s Animals: Building Local and Statewide Leadership

Across Virginia, animal advocates, first responders, educators, and policy leaders are coming together to shape a more compassionate, coordinated approach to animal welfare. As part of this vision, we’re working to build a network of local, regional, and statewide Animal Advisory Groups—starting with the communities that already have advisory bodies, and expanding into the areas that don’t.

These groups will serve as the connective tissue between local shelters, veterinary professionals, wildlife organizations, and law enforcement. Together, they will improve emergency response, foster care, spay/neuter efforts, workforce training, adoption outreach, and data coordination.

Why now? Because Virginia’s leadership is listening. On August 13, we’ll be presenting this plan to the Governor’s Office, the Secretary of Agriculture, the State Veterinarian, and senior policy advisors. At the heart of our proposal is the creation of a Governor’s Animal Advisory Committee—a lasting legacy for Governor Glenn Youngkin, aligning with his AI Jobs Initiative and No-Kill 2026 commitment.

🐕 The Current Landscape

Virginia already has advisory groups in:

• Fairfax County

• Loudoun County

• Virginia Beach

• Chesapeake

• Newport News

• James City County (in formation)

But much of western and southern Virginia remains unrepresented. That means less visibility, fewer resources, and missed opportunities to prevent cruelty, support rural shelters, and uplift animal-related businesses.

🌎 What This Will Look Like

We're proposing a three-tier system:

• Local Advisory Committees – comprised of shelter directors, vets, volunteers, educators, and public safety representatives.

• Regional Councils – to coordinate across counties, support rural areas, and track animal welfare outcomes.

• Governor’s Animal Advisory Committee – with agency liaisons and elected officials, overseeing priorities, standards, and funding.

Like New York’s partnership with its Farm Bureau, we believe Virginia’s Farm Bureau, Shelter Federation, Animal Control Association, and wildlife conservancies should play vital roles. These groups know their land, their animals, and their people.

🌱 How You Can Help

👥 Join or start an advisory group in your locality. If you’re in a county with no representation, reach out—we have starter templates, resolutions, and bylaws ready.

📣 Help us identify potential members, including vets, law enforcement, local officials, teachers, and non-profit leaders.

📊 Submit local data about shelter intakes, fostering, public events, or cruelty cases. This helps us identify gaps and track impact.

✍️ Sign up as a supporter of the Governor’s Animal Advisory Committee effort. We’ll include your name and organization in our August presentation.

🤝 Partner with us on spay/neuter campaigns, veterinary workforce development, or rural economic development tied to animal care.

🧭 What’s Next

• Aug 13: Presenting to Governor’s team

• Fall 2025: Local advisory group toolkit released

• Winter 2026: Launch of regional pilots in underserved areas

• 2026 General Assembly: Proposing legislation for formal recognition and funding of advisory groups statewide

🐾 Join Us.

We’re not just building committees—we’re building community. With your help, we can create a Virginia where animal welfare is not an afterthought, but a coordinated, compassionate priority.

—
Bob Tubbs
Founder, Virginia Animal Protection Group
📄 VA SCC ID: 11764024
📊 EIN: 33-1740935
🌐 www.vaanimalprotection.org
📰 vapg.substack.com
📘 Legislator Directory

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Who We Are
Welcome to the official newsletter of the Virginia Animal Protection Group (VAPG)—a statewide initiative uniting advocates, educators, shelters, legislators, and everyday citizens to transform the way animals are protected and cared for in the Commonwealth.

Why This Newsletter, Why Now
The momentum for meaningful change is here. From legislative reform and tax incentives to shelter standards and community education, Virginia is on the verge of becoming a national model for animal welfare. This Substack is a place to share that journey—to report on progress, tell powerful stories, spotlight frontline work, and give you tools to be part of the solution.

What You Can Expect
You'll receive regular updates on:

• Legislative actions and alerts

• Shelter reform and community success stories

• Youth initiatives like Kids, Cats & K9s

• Animal welfare data and policy analysis

• Ways to get involved locally and statewide

We’ll post about once a week, with special issues when big things happen.

How You Can Help
If you care about animals, humane policy, or building stronger communities through compassion, subscribe today. Share this newsletter with friends, neighbors, and decision-makers. Together, we can build a kinder, safer, more just Virginia—for animals and the people who care for them.

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