Animal Welfare League of Alexandria
Funded in 2023, 2024
The Animal Welfare League of Alexandria’s (AWLA) mission is to inspire compassion for all living things, provide shelter to animals in need, and promote adoption, animal welfare, and responsible pet ownership in the community. The AWLA cares for over 2,000 animals annually, including dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, birds, iguanas, and chinchillas. Since 1946, the AWLA has been a resource for the community and a shelter for homeless animals. Through adoptions, spay/neuter assistance, education, community service, and outreach, the AWLA is vital in promoting responsible pet care across Northern Virginia. Since 1989, the AWLA has worked with the City of Alexandria to provide animal care, control, protection, and sheltering services. The AWLA operates as an open-admission facility accepting any animals brought to it from within its jurisdiction.
The Grey Muzzle grant will support AWLA's AniMeals program, allowing the purchase of specialty food and supplies for community senior dogs. It will also enable the AWLA to help senior dogs remain with their devoted families by providing Emergency Veterinary Assistance grants. Funding will help dogs like Meiko, a 16-year-old lab mix adopted from the AWLA in 2012. Meiko’s family cherishes her deeply, and they have faced life’s challenges alongside her. Recently, Meiko began losing weight, causing concern. With limited funds due to housing challenges, her family turned to the AWLA. Thanks to Emergency Veterinary Assistance grants, Meiko received an exam, radiographs, and blood work, leading to a treatment plan that has her gaining weight and feeling better each day. The Grey Muzzle grant will ensure that AWLA can continue keeping pets like Meiko and their families together.
