Resources

Nelson SPCA

Helpful Information for Pet Care

Whether you’re a new pet owner or a long-time pet lover, our carefully curated resources are here to support you in providing the best care for your cats and dogs. You’ll find essential information and services to help ensure their health and happiness.

Jump to a section using the links below.

New Pet Owners

Adopting a new dog or cat is an exciting and rewarding experience, but it also comes with responsibilities and the need for proper care. Here are some valuable resources to help you get started on the right foot:

General Care Guides

The  ASPCA  has a Pet Care  library of resources that covers all the basics you’ll need to care for your new pet. These dog care and cat care guides include:

  1. Basics: Food, grooming, and exercise.
  2. Health: Vaccinations, common health issues, and vet visits.
  3. Training: Commands, house training, and behavioral solutions.
  4. Safety: Home and outdoor safety, and emergency preparedness.
  5. Enrichment: Mental stimulation and socialization.
  6. Special Topics: Introducing new pets to babies.

Veterinary & Medical Services

Local veterinary and medical services to ensure your pet receives the best possible treatment and care. We’re fortunate to have strong support from local veterinary clinics and extend a heartfelt thanks for their on-going help.

Helping Hands Affordable Veterinary Surgery & Dental Care logo

Helping Hands Veterinary Surgery and Dentistry

1605 Rhoadmiller St,
Richmond, VA 23220
(434) 244-6338
Website

VCA Animal Hospitals logo

VCA Animal Hospitals

445 Westfield Road
Charlottesville, VA 22901
(434) 973-6146
Website

Lovingston Veterinary Hospital logo

Lovingston Veterinary Hospital

8151 Thomas Nelson Hwy
Lovingston, VA 22949
(434) 263-4881
Website

Woodworth Animal Hospital logo

Woodworth Animal Hospital

2001 E Main St.
Waynesboro, VA 22980
(540) 942-5163
Website

Lynchburg Humane Society Spay/Neuter Clinic logo

Lynchburg Humane Society Spay/Neuter Clinic

1211 Old Graves Mill Road
Lynchburg, VA 24502
(434) 448-0088
Website

Augusta Regional SPCA Spay/Neuter Clinic logo

Augusta Regional SPCA Spay/Neuter Clinic

33 Archery Lane
Staunton, VA 24401
(540) 245-5635
Website

Anicira - Harrisonburg Veterinary Center logo

Anicira - Harrisonburg Veterinary Center

1992 Medical Avenue
Harrisonburg, VA 22801
(540) 437-1980
Website

Virginia Kincheloe Spay & Neuter Clinic logo

Virginia Kincheloe Spay & Neuter Clinic

452 TV Drive
Fredericksburg, VA 22408
(540) 507-7461
Website

Pet Insurance

Pet insurance can be a real lifesaver. It gives you peace of mind knowing you can provide pet care for emergencies, regular check-ups, and unforeseen health issues.

Pet insurance is regulated, so which company you choose to go with is usually less important than what policy you decide on. To choose the best pet insurance, compare different plans and find one that fits your budget and your pet’s needs. Below are the 6 important points you should pay attention to.

  1. coverage options
  2. premiums
  3. deductibles
  4. reimbursement rates
  5. check for any exclusions or limitations
  6. customer service reviews

When looking at reviews, remember that coverage is regulated, so complaints about it should be taken with a grain of salt. However, reviews can provide valuable insights into an organization’s customer service and responsiveness.

To get you started, here are some of the most well-established pet insurance providers in the US.

Nationwide Pet Insurance logo

Nationwide Pet Insurance

trupanion Pet Insurance logo

Turpanion Pet Insurance

healthy paws Pet Insurance logo

Healthy Paws Pet Insurance

embrace Pet Insurance logo

Embrace Pet Insurance

ASPCA logo

ASPCA Pet Health Insurance

Illustration of a two dogs looking upward toward an incoming ball - graphic divider element

Pet-Friendly Housing

Finding a home that welcomes both you and your pet can be a challenge. To help you locate a pet-friendly living space, we’ve compiled a list of housing website directories. Each link includes filters for our area and specifically for pet-friendly accommodations.

Pet Supplies

Explore these pet supply businesses to find everything you need for your new dog or cat, from food and toys to grooming essentials.