May 2026 Newsletter

🌼 From the VFHS Board of Directors

Thank you for making the 2026 VFHS Annual Conference such a success! It was energizing to gather with so many dedicated animal welfare professionals, advocates, and volunteers from across Virginia. Your passion continues to drive meaningful change for animals and the communities who care for them.

As we move into May, we’re building on that momentum—expanding access to resources, strengthening partnerships, and supporting the incredible work happening across the state every day.

📢 VFHS Updates

We are continuing efforts to increase spay/neuter access in underserved communities across Virginia
New training opportunities and webinars are in development—stay tuned!
We’re expanding partnerships to better support shelters and rescue groups statewide

🎉 2026 Conference Recap

Our annual conference, held at the Hotel Madison & Shenandoah Valley Conference Center in Harrisonburg, VA, brought together leaders in animal welfare for three days of education, collaboration, and celebration.

Highlights included:

Engaging workshops on lifesaving strategies and community programs
Meaningful networking and idea-sharing across organizations
A memorable Awards Gala recognizing champions in animal welfare

We’re so grateful to our speakers, sponsors, and attendees for making this event impactful and inspiring.

👉 View Conference Presentations

👉 Visit our Conference page for more info

📅 Save the Date for the 2027 Conference:

April 7–9, 2027

(Early check-in: April 6)

🐾 Spay/Neuter Impact

At this year’s conference, SpayVA distributed $145,000 in spay/neuter funding to 67 member organizations across Virginia.

These funds—made possible through support from VFHS, Two Maud’s Foundation, and a generous private donor—will directly expand access to lifesaving services in communities that need it most.

🤝 Thank You to Our Sponsors & Exhibitors

We extend our sincere gratitude to all of our conference sponsors and exhibitors. Your support helps make this event—and our continued work across Virginia—possible.

🎤 A Fun (and Competitive!) Highlight

One of the most memorable moments of the conference was the “Sing Your Balls Off Virginia” karaoke competition, sponsored by Tito’s Vodka.

A total of $5,000 in prize money was awarded to Compassion Unleashed and Blue Ridge Animal Welfare League —combining fun with fundraising for a great cause!

🏆 2026 Award Recipients

Celebrating the individuals and organizations making a difference across Virginia.

President's Award: Tracey Triggs

Bravo Award: Paula Coffey, Dakota Cassell, & Stephanie Arrington

Field Officer of the Year: Deputy Eric Higgins

Veterinary Partnership Award: Dr Sara Holland & Dr Jennifer Kotouch

Companion Award: Jax

The Griggs Greatest Lifesaving Advancement Award: Special recognition, posthumously, to Chris Haverly

Award Descriptions and Photos

📢 Member Spotlight

Mobile Vet Solutions

This month, we’re recognizing the incredible impact of Mobile Vet Solutions. Their recent visit during the conference provided both education and the opportunity to tour their mobile clinic.

Their work is a powerful example of accessible, proactive animal welfare in action.

💛 In Memoriam

The Griggs Greatest Lifesaving Advancement Award

Presented posthumously to Chris Haverly

During the Awards Gala, attendees gathered for a heartfelt tribute and toast in honor of Chris Haverly. His lasting impact on animal welfare and dedication to lifesaving work continues to inspire communities across Virginia.