AUG 2026 STL

AUGUST 2026

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STAFFORD

Honey On Duty: THE TWICE-SURRENDERED SHELTER DOG WHO BECAME AN AMBASSADOR OF LOVE

Photo by Karen Presecan Photography

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© Best Version Media GET READY FOR A PAW-SOME ISSUE, STAFFORD NEIGHBORS! This month, meet Honey, our front-page, four-legged beauty. You’ll read all about HoneyOnDuty, a nonprofit started in Honey’s honor, and meet her awesome family!

We’ve also got a double dose of dogs for you, as we highlight the amazing work that the Fredericksburg SPCA does in our own backyard. Learn all about what the Fred SPCA is doing for humans and animals alike, and get your tickets to their 11th Annual Fur Ball Gala on August 22nd!

We also wanted to wish all of our families, students, and teachers in the community the best of luck as we send those kids back to school. Here’s to an incredible school year ahead, filled with loads of lessons, plenty of fun, and a bunch of new friendships!

Happy reading,

PUBLICATION TEAM

Dori Stewart Publisher

Mallory Hardgrove Content Coordinator

Crissy Hall Executive Assistant to the Publisher

Valynda Phifer Publisher’s Assistant

Laura Anderson Designer

Karen Presecan Photographer

Kira Pohwala Contributing Writer

Cherice Taylor Contributing Writer

Karie Owens Contributing Writer

Mallory Hardgrove FXBGNeighbors

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Table of

CONTENTS

05 06 08 10 12 13

Home Improvement Corner Fall Flooring Trends: Refresh Your Home for Back-to-School Season

Katrina Spies Contributing Writer

Parents Education Corner Before the Bell Rings: Summer Steps Toward a Great School Year Expert Contributor Keeping Homes Cool and Efficient Resident Feature Honey On Duty: The Twice-Surrendered Shelter Dog Who Became An Ambassador of Love High School Highlights Reducing Food Insecurity Through Sustainable Farming Pet Corner Summer’s Wear and Tear: Why Is Your Dog Limping?

10 14

Charity Spotlight More Than a Shelter: How the Fredericksburg SPCA Builds Community, One Bond at a Time

16

Calendar of Events Upcoming Events August- September

18

Kids Corner Heading Back to School

Stephanie Cox Contributing Writer

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Contact: Dori Stewart Email: doristewart@bestversionmedia.com Phone: (540) 288-7928

FEEDBACK/IDEAS/SUBMISSIONS: Have feedback, ideas or submissions? We are always happy to hear from you! Deadlines for submissions are the 10th of each month. Go to www.bestversionmedia.com and click “Submit Content.” You may also email your thoughts, ideas and photos to: doristewart@bestversionmedia.com

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BVM is not responsible for the reliability, suitability or timeliness of any content submitted, inclusive of materials generated or composed through artificial intelligence (AI). All content submitted is done so at the sole discretion of the submitting party. © 2026 Best Version Media. All rights reserved.

August2026 3

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EX PERT CONTR IBUTORS BATHROOM REMODELING

Brian Beck | FXBG Construction 703-609-7825 fxbg-construction.com

CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING

Ryan Seidman | Heaven’s Best Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning 540-752-0160 staffordva.heavensbest.com

HOME COMFORT

Dan Bomar, Marketing and Customer Care Manager | Comfenergy 800-604-2252 comfenergy.com | 3prosbasementsystems.com

KITCHEN REMODELING

Chris Romero | Kitchens For You 540-720-2022 kitchensforyou.com

MED SPA

Maggie McIntyre | Rejuvalase Medspa 540-720-8881 rejuvalase.com

OUTDOOR LIVING

Paul Gardner | Artscapes, Elf Pros, Ignite Illumination 540-371-2566 artscapespro.com, elfpros.com, igniteillumination.com

Solution Based

PLUMBING

Ryan Deane | Pro Service Plumbing and Gas 540-735-8005 proservicenova.com

REAL ESTATE

Ginger Walker | Give Back Team of Coldwell Banker Elite 540-306-5585 GiveBackTeam.com

SALON / HAIR

Kat Halstead | Kat’s Beauty Lounge @ Chatham Heights Beauty Co 410-322-7692 linktr.ee/ChathamHeightsBeautyCo

SEPTIC SERVICES

David Stewart | Dominion Septic 540-737-1008 DominionSeptic.com

TREE SERVICE

Patrick Wade | Arbor Tech Tree & Landscaping Service 540-522-6103 arbortechva.com

To learn more about becoming an expert contributor, contact Dori Stewart at BVM at: doristewart@bestversionmedia.com or 540-288-7928

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HOME IMPROVEMENT

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FALL FLOORING TRENDS: REFRESH YOUR HOME FOR BACK-TO-SCHOOL SEASON

By Karie Owens • Photos Courtesy of NK Floors

There’s something about fall in Northern Virginia that makes you want to get your home in order. The kids are heading back to school, schedules are ramping up, and after a summer of muddy shoes and sandy feet, many local families look at their floors and think, “It’s time.” If that’s you, you’re in good company. This is to make a home feel snug and inviting as mornings grow crispone of our favorite times of year at NK Floors, when we help neighbors freshen er — perfect for early school-day routines with coffee in hand. up their homes.

Community Favorites This Season Warm Tones Are Having a Moment We’re also seeing strong interest in patterned tile for entryways This fall, homeowners are leaning into warm, earthy wood tones — honey oak, and mudrooms, a smart, stylish way to handle the daily huscaramel, and soft walnut hues. These colors bring a cozy, welcoming feel that pairs tle of backpacks, shoes, and school supplies coming through beautifully with the season and are versatile enough to complement the kind of the door. It’s a small upgrade that makes a big difference for lived-in, family-first homes so many of us have here. busy households.

Durable Floors for Busy Households With backpacks, cleats, and after-school activities back in full swing, durability is top of mind. Luxury vinyl plank remains a favorite among the families we work with because it withstands daily traffic, resists scuffs, and cleans up easily after a long day at practice or a rainy morning drop-off.

A Fresh Start, Together Fall is a season of new routines and new beginnings, and your home should feel as ready as your family. Whether you’re refreshing one room or planning a larger update, the NK Floors team is always happy to walk you through options and help you find flooring that fits your home and your life this season.

Cozy Textures Underfoot As the weather cools, more folks are bringing warmth back to bedrooms and living Here’s to a warm, welcoming fall for you and yours, from our spaces with soft area rugs and plush carpet in cozy neutral tones. It’s a simple way family at NK Floors to yours.

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PARENTS EDUCATION

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BEFORE THE BELL RINGS: SUMMER STEPS TOWARD A GREAT SCHOOL YEAR

By Cherice Taylor

Cherice Taylor, M.A. Education Administration, is a Part-Time Career Advisor for Germanna Community College. She is the 2022-2023 Past President of the Rotary Club of Stafford and a Charter Member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Psi Psi Omega Chapter. She is a relationship builder, poet and a former educator with over 10 years experience at the preschool through high school levels. Cherice earned her Bachelor’s degree from UCLA and her Masters in Education Administration from California State University- Dominguez Hills. She is married to LCDR Eric Taylor (retired) and a mother of four sons. A positive attitude and the belief that sharing pearls of wisdom along with the Golden Rule allows for everyone to improve and reach their personal goals. This is demonstrated in the podcast show that she hosts, Time Matters Podcast! Cherice believes that if we all do better, then we all do better, and that is why Cherice is involved in the community.

Relax, recharge, and take small steps now to support your student’s future success. Explore a few back-to-school details today and make this summer count.

Summer Still Matters It’s still summertime, and most of us don’t want to think about back‑to‑school anything. Yet, while we can ignore the inevitable, we can also strategize and enjoy the rest of the summer while quietly taking care of a few back‑to‑school details.

Students and parents or guardians are partners with educators, counselors, and administrators in helping each student reach their full potential and prepare for life after high school.

When Should We Start Thinking About Life After High School?

Some say junior or senior year. Others say eighth grade. But is it ever too early to plan and prepare for the future?

Some people say “yes”; others “no.” I believe it’s never too early to plan for the future. What matters most is that rising freshmen earn the best grades they can and take advantage of the opportunities their high school offers.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics publishes Employment Projections (2024–2034) that outline hundreds of occupational fields, education requirements, and growth trends. Reviewing this data can help families guide their children as they explore interests and emerging career paths.

As I often say on the Time Matters Podcast, how you spend your time matters. Here’s why:

And yes, those foundational skills from elementary and middle school matter too. They’re the building blocks for success in high school and beyond.

Resources to Explore Here are a few tools families can explore to help K‑12 students discover career interests and college pathways. The Virginia Department of Education offers many of these resources: • Career Cluster Survey • CollegeBoard.org • Virginia Education Wizard • Virginia Career View • Schoolinks, Naviance, etc.

• Khan Academy • SOLPass

• Attendance in school correlates with attendance in college classes, apprenticeships, and the workforce.

• Participation in school activities connects to involvement in higher‑education or career opportunities.

• Volunteering, babysitting, or part‑time work builds civic engagement and a strong work ethic.

Keep Learning, Keep Listening For additional tips and insights from professionals across industries, follow the Time Matters Podcast on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, Spotify, and iHeart, and listen for practical ideas you can use today.

Building Strong Foundations The transition to high school can be challenging, but the classes and grades earned now form the foundation for future coursework — including prerequisites for careers that may not even exist yet.

A Final Thought Enjoy the rest of your summer — and plan to attend your child’s school open house. Mark it now and take that important step toward an awesome 2026–2027 school year!

6 StaffordLiving

© Best Version Media Wellness You Can Trust. Results You Can Sustain.

A Smarter Approach to Healthy Living.

At Faithfully Fit & Frugal (F3), we believe living well shouldn’t feel overwhelming—or out of reach. That’s why we’ve created wellness resources that combines expert guidance with practical, affordable solutions designed for your real life.

Whether you’re balancing work, family, retirement, or everything in between, F3 helps make healthy living simpler, more sustainable, and easier to maintain for the long term.

BUILT ON LEADERSHIP. DRIVEN BY PURPOSE. Faithfully Fit & Frugal (F3) was founded by a retired United States Marine Corps Officer, bringing the values of sustainability and service into every program and resource we create.

Our mission is simple: provide trusted wellness education that helps people build healthier lives with confidence. One way F3 does this is within our local PD16 Community as an Expert Wellness Contributor to the Fredericksburg Regional Chamber of Commerce’s Blog.

MORE THAN A NUTRITION PROGRAM The F3 Signature Nutrition Program™ is built around a simple belief: lasting health begins with more than what’s on your plate.

That’s why our internationally recognized program includes our signature Mindset component—an innovative approach that seamlessly weaves wellness habits, motivation, and personal growth into nutrition, making it the only program of its kind.

By helping people strengthen both their mindset and their daily habits, F3 creates a more complete path to lasting wellness.

PREMIUM GUIDANCE. PRACTICAL VALUE. At F3, premium means thoughtful, trusted, and designed to make a real difference—not expensive.

That’s why every resource is created to deliver high-quality wellness education that’s accessible, practical, and built for busy lives. No fads. No extremes. Just proven strategies that fit your lifestyle and your budget.

Because when wellness feels achievable, healthy habits become lasting ones.

Faithfully Fit & Frugal (F3) -Trusted Wellness. Practical Solutions.

Healthy Living for Life.

Keep WORKING. F3. LET’S WORK. Learn more at: faithfullyfitandfrugal.com August2026 7

EXPERT

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KEEPING HOMES COOL AND EFFICIENT

By Dan Bomar • Photos provided by Comfenergy

As summer temperatures soar, homeowners often notice hot upper floors, rising utility bills, and greater difficulty maintaining comfort.

These issues are typically caused by cooled air escaping, hot air entering the home, or overall performance inefficiencies. Because home comfort needs change from season to season, Comfenergy takes a seasonal approach to home performance, helping homeowners stay cool, comfortable, and energy-efficient during the hottest months while minimizing energy waste.

Maintaining Comfort and Efficiency Hot upper floors are often a sign that cooled air is escaping or that air isn’t flowing efficiently throughout the home. Leaky or poorly insulated ductwork, along with gaps in insulation or air sealing, can lead to condensation, duct sweating, and even water stains around vents or ceilings. These are clear indicators that the home is losing conditioned air and allowing unwanted heat to enter.

These issues don’t just reduce comfort; they also increase energy usage and strain the home’s AC systems. Proper insulation and air sealing are critical for keeping cooled air inside, blocking outdoor heat, and maintaining consistent indoor temperatures. Addressing these

concerns early in the summer can help homeowners avoid higher energy costs and more serious comfort issues later in the season.

Attic Solutions That Make a Difference The attic plays an important role in summer home performance. Radiant barriers are an effective way to lower attic temperatures by reflecting heat before it hits the living space below. As a result, cooler attics help maintain more comfortable upper floors and reduce the overall effort required to keep the home comfortable, which can lead to noticeable energy savings.

When combined with effective insulation and thorough air sealing, attic improvements also offer the added benefit of noise reduction, creating a quieter indoor environment. A properly insulated and sealed attic helps ensure that your top floors don’t feel like an oven during the hottest days of the year.

In addition to improving comfort and efficiency, attic upgrades, crawl space encapsulation, or basement waterproofing can also boost resale value, particularly in the Northern Virginia real estate market, by helping older homes perform more like newer construction.

Is your home too hot?

Let us help make your home more comfortable and lower your energy cost.

Call today for your free estimate 1-800-604-2252 8 StaffordLiving

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for Honest, Reliable Septic Service You Can Trust.

540.737.1008 Identifying Hidden Problems Even well-maintained homes can have hidden air leaks or performance issues that aren’t easy to spot. Blower door testing and thermal imaging are effective tools for identifying where air escapes and where cooled air fails to reach. By finding and addressing these hidden inefficiencies, homeowners can enjoy more consistent temperatures, improved comfort throughout the home, and reduced energy waste.

Summer home performance isn’t just about keeping your home cool— it’s about creating a consistent, comfortable environment while reducing energy waste and protecting your home’s systems. Through proper insulation, duct system evaluation, attic improvements, and air sealing, Comfenergy helps homeowners stay cool, save money, and enjoy a more comfortable, quieter home throughout the hottest months of the year. By taking a proactive, seasonal approach, we ensure that your home performs at its best so that you can enjoy the summer season to the fullest.

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RESIDENT

feature

© Best Version Media ers. The adoption was finalized, and life for the Walter/Jones family changed for good.

From Shelter Dog to Service Dog Honey is a pit-mix, and if you’ve spent any time around the breed, you already know the narrative she faced before ever setting paw in the Walter/Jones home — one built on fear and misinformation instead of the millions of gentle, loyal, goofy dogs who actually live in homes like Stefan’s. Honey has spent every day since her adoption proving that narrative wrong.

Today, she’s a fully trained service/therapy dog. Her task work includes deep pressure therapy, tactile redirection, behavior interruption, and anxiety and emotional regulation.

She supports Stefan through medical procedures, monitors repetitive or anxious behaviors, and — since Stefan’s recent narcolepsy diagnosis — is now in alert training to recognize the early signs of an episode before it happens.

“She isn’t just a dog, she’s human,” Stefan often says, describing a partner who travels with him, supports him medically, and has woven herself into his daily routines and emotional stability. She’s with him 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and that bond anchors the whole household: Stefan’s wife, Lacy Jones, their son Logan, and the rest of the lively house pack — Finn, Puppin, Mo, and the newest rescues, Happy & Sunni. They serve as Honey’s hyperactive off-duty sidekicks and resident comic relief.

Honey On Duty:

THE TWICE-SURRENDERED SHELTER DOG WHO BECAME AN AMBASSADOR OF LOVE

By Mallory Hardgrove • Photography by Karen Presecan Photography

A Career Built on Real Stories, Now Shared With Honey Stefan’s full-time work includes GoodLuckStef Productions, started in 2013, which helps Virginia, Washington DC, and Maryland businesses turn their message into cinematic video, photography, and immersive storytelling that keeps them visible, trusted, and top-ofmind; Honey’s Dog Treats, a mission-driven treat company that helps sustain The Honey On Duty Project; and Vindec EU, a mental health and healing initiative focused on trauma, resilience, and helping people rebuild with purpose. Across all three, Stefan specializes in storytelling and in building programs centered on healing and human connection.

There’s a moment Stefan Walter will never forget. He went into the Stafford County Animal Shelter looking for a service dog and was standing in the lobby when a staff member said, “If you’re open to breeds, we have the perfect dog for you.” Minutes later, Honey was brought through the door — a dog who had already been surrendered twice in her short life — and the room immediately shifted.

“It’s demanding work — long hours, constant travel, no shortage of high-pressure days,” Stefan explains. “Honey comes with me to nearly all of it. She helps during shoots, keeps me grounded, and regulates my anxiety in real time. She’s my working partner and my constant source of stability.”

“I choose you,” Stefan said. “And you choose me.” She did. Two days later, after Honey passed her medical evaluation at Ferry Farm Animal Hospital, Stefan and Honey met Dr. Horricks for the first time; Dr. Horricks later became one of The HoneyOnDuty Project 501(c)(3) co-found-

That thread runs through everything Stefan builds. Through Vindec EU’s focus on mental health, and through the community reach of

10 StaffordLiving

© Best Version Media The HoneyOnDuty Project, Honey has become an ambassador for hope and second chances — proof of the healing that happens when people and animals walk through hard things together.

Paws Across the Country Honey has become a nationally traveling service dog in the truest sense: 15 states visited, over 30 flights logged, and a longest single flight of 7.5 hours — plus one full sprint airplane to airplane through LAX, terminal to terminal, barely making it in seven minutes flat, all handled with the kind of composure most frequent flyers wish they had.

The duo even rate airport pet relief areas for other traveling handlers, because “if there’s one thing Honey has taught me, it’s that good information helps everyone.”

As a working service dog, Honey brings calm and connection to children in hospice, hospitalized patients, families in medical crisis, seniors, first responders, and others navigating life’s hardest moments. It’s the same instinct that makes her a great travel partner, pointed somewhere far more important.

The Mission Behind The HoneyOnDuty Project All of this lives under one roof: The HoneyOnDuty Project, a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to bringing healing, hope, and dignity to people and communities facing illness, trauma, grief, and crisis. Honey’s Dog Treats fuels it directly — the bridge between Honey’s physical health and her emotional purpose, the nourishment behind a life of service.

GoodLuckStef Productions, Honey’s Dog Treats, and Vindec EU remain Stefan’s fulltime careers, but The HoneyOnDuty Project has become the heart of his calling. Together, Stefan and Honey are building a nationwide movement expanding access to healing — visits to children and adults in hospice, families in medical crisis, first responders, seniors, and veterans — all while carrying one message: “surrendered” does not mean “broken.”

Through education, storytelling, and steady growth, they aim to reach millions of people and build a world where compassion and dignity are always within reach.

Part of that work means directly confronting the myths around bully breeds. Honey is proof, walking on four paws through airport terminals and hospital hallways alike, that a dog’s breed says nothing about her heart. She holds her AKC Canine Good Citizen and CGC Advanced titles and carries her Alliance of Therapy Dogs certification, trained by an Air Force K9 trainer who specializes in service and military dogs.

None of that happens with an unpredictable or aggressive dog — it happens with a dog built, at her core, to help.

Honey Off Duty For all her professional polish, Honey has a perfect light switch between work mode and party mode. Off duty, she’s a “fur missile,” a devoted couch (and blanket) thief, a champion napper, and best friends with a chihuahua named Mo. “Watching her transform from focused working dog to hyper, tail-wagging furball is one of the great joys of our house — and frankly, one of the best ‘pit stops’ in our day,” Stefan says.

His wife, Lacy, has supported the journey from day one through their entrepreneurial, multi-business, cross-country-flying lifestyle. Their son, Logan, 11, has grown up alongside Honey’s mission, helping with her training and off-duty playtime, and picking up discipline, empathy, and patience most kids don’t encounter until much later in life.

Honey was surrendered twice. Now she’s changing minds one wag at a time — living proof that the dogs everyone’s quickest to give up on might just be the best ones in the bunch.

For more information about HoneyOnDuty, check out honeyonduty.com and HoneysDogtreats.com, or follow along on Facebook/Instagram/YouTube @honeyonduty.

August2026 11

HIGH SCHOOL

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REDUCING FOOD INSECURITY THROUGH SUSTAINABLE FARMING

By Kira Pohwala • Photos provided by Rappahannock Education Farm Kira Pohwala is a rising senior at Mountain View High School. She arrives as the chief of technology on the school’s literary magazine, Prowl Publishing, and is a member of the National Honors Society, National English Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta, and the Spanish Honors Society. Outside of writing, she enjoys reading, volunteering at the local library, and has a strong passion for biology.

Volunteering at REF offers more than community service hours.

Students gain experience in teamwork, responsibility, environmental stewardship, and sustainable agriculture. They also learn where food comes from and how local organizations work together to fight hunger. These experiences can strengthen college applications and résumés while creating lasting connections with fellow volunteers and community members.

If you’re looking for a meaningful way to give back to the Stafford community this summer while spending time outdoors, volunteer at the Rappahannock Education Farm. This nonprofit, volunteer-driven organization reduces food insecurity by growing fresh produce for local food banks and food pantries. It also teaches sustainable gardening and farming practices, giving volunteers valuable hands-on experience.

The Rappahannock Education Farm began with a simple idea: bringing the community together to grow healthy food for those who need it most. Today, its nine-acre farm continues that mission through the dedication of volunteers of all ages. Whether you can volunteer once or throughout the growing season, your time and effort can make a meaningful difference. By planting, tending, and harvesting crops, high school students have the opportunity to help cultivate both healthy food and a stronger, more connected community.

High school students are especially encouraged to get involved. If you need volunteer hours for school or National Honor Society, or simply want to make a difference, join REF this year. Volunteers work alongside community members of all ages, learning practical farming skills while helping provide nutritious food to families across the region.

Volunteer activities change with the seasons. Summer volunteers continue planting while also helping weed, water, and harvest crops as they ripen. The warm months require many helping hands to keep the fields healthy and productive. Throughout the year, volunteers may work with a wide variety of fruits and vegetables.

Depending on the season, you might help grow kale, collards, cabbage, spinach, onions, potatoes, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, zucchini, squash, radishes, turnips, broccoli, beets, watermelon, or cantaloupe. Every harvest contributes directly to local families experiencing food insecurity.

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SUMMER’S WEAR AND TEAR:

WHY IS YOUR DOG LIMPING?

By Dr. Katrina Spies, DVM, CHPV, CCRV, CVA, CVPP

If your dog spent the last few months sprinting through the backyard, hiking with you, or roughhousing at the dog park, they have been living their best summer life. By the time August rolls around, all that high-impact fun can take a toll.

It is a common myth that mobility issues are strictly for older dogs. Whether you have a clumsy puppy, an athletic weekend warrior, or a senior pet, a summer injury can happen to any dog at any age.

What Can Cause a Limp?

Several conditions show up frequently this time of year: • Cruciate Injuries: The cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) is the canine ACL. A sudden pivot or slip can cause it to stretch or tear, leading to sudden hindlimb lameness.

• Soft Tissue Injury: Repetitive sprinting or fence-running can overextend tendons and muscles, especially in the neck and groin area (iliopsoas).

• IVDD (Intervertebral Disc Disease): A hard landing off a deck can cause a spinal disc to bulge or herniate. This mimics a leg injury but causes sudden pain and weakness.

• Arthritis Flares: Increased activity can worsen underlying joint inflammation at any age.

• Environmental Hazards: As we discussed last month, copperheads are active here throughout the summer. A snake bite, splinters, torn nails, or wounds to paw pads can also cause lameness.

• Hidden Systemic Issues: Tick-borne diseases like Lyme frequently cause shifting leg lameness, while less common issues like bone tumors can also present as a persistent, unresolved limp.

Triage: Give It Time, Appointment, or ER? • Give it time (24 to 48 hours): If the limp is mild, your dog bears weight, and they are eating normally, it’s appropriate to wait and see if the lameness improves. Restrict activity completely, using a short leash for bathroom breaks only, and apply a towel-wrapped ice pack for 5 to 10 minutes. Never give human medications like ibuprofen or Aleve, as they are highly toxic to dogs, and even milder options like aspirin can interact with medications your vet may prescribe.

• Make an appointment: If the limp persists beyond a day or two, comes and goes, or worsens gradually, make an appointment with your primary care veterinarian.

• Head to the ER: Seek care immediately if your dog is non-weight-bearing, shows neurological changes like knuckling or dragging a limb, or displays severe pain such as constant vocalizing or guarding the painful area.

What Happens at the Vet A proper workup starts with an orthopedic exam to check joint stability, alongside a neurologic exam to rule out spinal cord issues like IVDD. X-rays directly evaluate bones and joints, and advanced imaging, such as an MRI, may follow if surgery is required.

Because we often prescribe NSAIDs, expect baseline bloodwork to confirm the liver and kidneys are healthy enough to process the medication. We also routinely run a 4Dx test to screen for tick-borne diseases during peak season.

Where Integrative Medicine Comes In If you read my column regularly, you know I practice as both an ER veterinarian and an integrative medicine practitioner. Once we establish a diagnosis, conventional

treatment is often just the first layer of care. Medications excel at blunting acute pain, but true healing requires addressing the entire body, which is where an integrative approach shines.

Rather than just resting a patient and waiting for time to pass, we use specific modalities to target different aspects of recovery. Targeted laser therapy uses light energy to stimulate cellular repair and reduce inflammation at the source. Medical acupuncture relieves pain and releases the compensatory muscle spasms that build up in the neck and back when a dog shifts weight off an injured limb. And rather than relying purely on crate confinement, controlled rehabilitation introduces gentle movement early on to preserve muscle mass and prevent chronic stiffness.

The Bottom Line Do not wait out a limp indefinitely. A quick assessment catches small issues before they become major ones, keeping your pet comfortable and moving well into autumn.

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August2026 13

CHARITY

spotlight

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MORE THAN A SHELTER: HOW THE FREDERICKSBURG SPCA BUILDS COMMUNITY, ONE BOND AT A TIME

By Mallory Hardgrove • Photos provided by Fredericksburg SPCA

Every August, animal shelters across the country take part in national campaigns designed to find loving homes for animals waiting in shelters and rescues. Maybe you’ve heard of “Clear the Shelters” month or have seen advertisements in the past. Locally– and running from August through October– the Fredericksburg SPCA is participating in The Rescue Effect, which is the ASPCA’s national adoption campaign focused on increasing adoptions and engaging the public. The ASPCA provides grants to participating shelters and rescue organizations to help cover adoption fees and support operations with many organizations hosting fee-waived adoption events.

This year, the Fredericksburg SPCA was awarded one of the ASPCA grants and will be hosting six fee-waived adoption events (two per month) from August through October. For the organization, the initiative extends their own mission, one rooted in the belief that saving animals also means supporting the people who love them.

“The Fredericksburg SPCA strives to be more than an animal shelter,” says Von Young, Director of Communications & Marketing.

“We are a community resource dedicated to strengthening the bond between people and their pets.” That philosophy shapes everything

the organization does, from emergency pet food assistance to lowcost veterinary care, all designed with one goal in mind: keeping families and their pets together whenever possible.

Young’s path to animal welfare wasn’t a straight line. Growing up, veterinary medicine and marine biology seemed like the only ways to build a career around animals — and neither fit. A love of photography, a childhood spent smuggling stray cats past a patient mother, and later a career photographing weddings and events eventually led to a job with a D.C. and Los Angeles company that partnered with animal rescues. From there, the pull toward nonprofit work became impossible to ignore. This July marked Young’s nineyear anniversary with the Fredericksburg SPCA. Much of that journey, Young says, was shaped by former Deputy Director Dalia Salah, who created the organization’s People Empowered Through Support (PETS) Program. “She replaced judgment with compassion, championed trauma-informed care and resilience, and led with courage and conviction at a time when fear and tradition often drove the conversation,” Young recalls. That mentorship still guides the way the Fred SPCA approaches its work today — with empathy first, and judgment nowhere in the equation.

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It’s a mindset that pushes back against a tired stereotype in animal welfare. “There is a common joke in animal welfare that people get involved because they ‘love animals and hate people,’ but that couldn’t be further from the truth at the Fredericksburg SPCA,” Young explains. Without the humans — the fosters, volunteers, donors, and pet owners doing their best in hard circumstances — there is no animal welfare at all.

That’s part of why national adoption events like the ASPCA’s Rescue Effect resonate so strongly with the organization’s broader mission. August isn’t just about emptying kennels for a month; it’s about widening the door to compassion and giving overburdened municipal shelters some breathing room. The Fredericksburg SPCA prioritizes intake and transfer support for District 16 communities, including Spotsylvania, Fredericksburg, Stafford, King George, and Caroline County, and serves as a placement hub during natural disasters and large-scale cruelty cases across the region and beyond.

As Young puts it, “Adoption is not the only way to save lives. It takes a village.” Adoption is one piece of that village-building — a chance for the community to step in now, FREE MEASUREMENT

open their homes, and make space for the next animal in need.

The work isn’t without its lighter, more heartwarming moments. Young remembers a Valentine’s Day “puppy party” fundraiser, where a stern-looking company executive turned out to be quietly grieving his late dog — until a puppy at the event reminded him of her. He submitted an adoption application before the party even ended.

Years later, his wife became the Fred SPCA’s Executive Director. “It’s a story that has always stayed with me of unexpected healing, connection, and the quiet ways animals find their way into our lives when we need them most,” Young says.

Beyond potentially finding a new family member through sponsored adoption events, the community can look forward to the Fredericksburg SPCA’s biggest fundraiser of the year: the 11th Annual Fur Ball Gala, themed “A Fairy Tail Gala,” set for August 22, 2026, at the Fredericksburg Convention Center. Tickets and sponsorship details are available at fredspca.org/furball, and organizers note the event sells out every year.

For those looking to get involved beyond adoption, opportunities abound. “Don’t be afraid to get involved,” Young says, “there

truly is a place for everyone in animal welfare” — whether that means fostering, volunteering, donating supplies, or simply showing up to an event.

This fall, as shelters nationwide clear space for animals in need, the Fredericksburg SPCA invites the community to be part of the solution — proving, once again, that it truly does take a village.

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August2026 15

CALENDAR

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of events

Upcoming Events

August- September

Fri., August 7 First Friday @Downtown FXBG Time: 5- 9pm 601 Caroline St. Fredericksburg, VA 22401

Sat., August 8 Virginia Bourbon and Beer Festival @Fredericksburg Fairgrounds Time: 4- 9pm 2400 Airport Ave. Fredericksburg, VA 22401

Fri., August 7 Kids Entrepreneur Market with Fredericksburg Nationals @Virginia Credit Union Stadium Time: 5:30- 8:30pm 42 Jackie Robinson Way Fredericksburg, VA 22401

Sat., August 8 Twilight Kayak Tour @Widewater State Park Time: 6- 7:30pm 101 Widewater State Park Rd. Stafford, VA 22554

Sat., August 8 Cars & Coffee @Gari Melchers Home and Studio Time: 8- 11am 224 Washington St. Falmouth, VA 22405 Sat., August 8 6th Annual Rouse Rally Tennis & Pickleball Tournament @UMW Tennis Cetner Time: 8am- 8pm 1200 Hanover St. Fredericksburg, VA 22401 Sat., August 8 Kids Story Time- Second Saturday @Tales & Tails Time: 10- 11am 1010 Charles St. Fredericksburg, VA 22401

Thurs., August 13 Barks & Recreation @Fredericksburg Dog Park Time: 6- 8pm 1448 Kenmore Ave. Fredericksburg, VA 22401

Sat., August 15 Bites & Flights @National Museum of the Marine Corps Time: 6- 9pm 1775 Semper Fidelis Way Triangle, VA 22172 Sun., August 16 FXBG VegFest Vegan Brunch @City Vino Time: 10:30am- 1pm 100 Hanover St. Fredericksburg, VA 22401 Sat., August 22 Fred SPCA Fur Ball: A Fairy Tail Gala @Fredericksburg Convention Center Time: 6pm 2371 Carl D Silver Pkwy.

Fredericksburg, VA 22401 Thurs., August 27 Summer Concert Series @National Museum of the Marine Corps Time: 7- 8pm 1775 Semper Fidelis Way Triangle, VA 22172 Fri., August 28 Reptiles Alive! @Lake Anna State Park Time: 2- 3pm 6800 Lawyers Rd. Spotsylvania, VA 22551

Fri., August 14 Sunshine Concert Series @Eden Try Winery Time: 6- 8pm 6818 River Rd. Fredericksburg, VA 22407 Sat., August 15 2nd Rappahannock River Invasion: Catfish Cookout & Watershed Festival @Patawomeck Museum & Cultural Center Time: 12- 4pm 638 Kings Hwy. Fredericksburg, VA 22405

Fri., Sept. 4 First Fridays Karaoke @Reclaim Arcade Time: 8- 11:45pm 2324 Plank Rd. Fredericksburg, VA 22401 At the time this magazine went to print, all event times and locations were accurate, but please check event websites for the most current information. Some events may have been postponed or canceled.

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© Best Version Media Weekly Events

Multiple Day Events

Every Tuesday Music Bingo @Barley Naked Brewing Co. Time: 6- 8pm 15 Tech Pkwy.

Stafford, VA 22556

Wed., July 15 thru Sun., Aug. 23 Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap @Riverside Center for the Performing Arts Various Times 95 Riverside Parkway Fredericksburg, VA 22406

Every Wednesday Muttflix and Chill @The Barking Barley Time: 6- 9pm 1515 Olde William St. Fredericksburg, VA 22401 Trivia with Trapper @6 Bears & A Goat Brewing Company Time: 7pm 1140 International Pkwy.

Fredericksburg, VA 22406 Adventure Jeopardy @Adventure Brewing Company Time: 7:30- 9pm 33 Perchwood Dr. Fredericksburg, VA 22405 Every Saturday Spotsylvania Farmers Market Saturday Market @VDOT Commuter Lot- Spotsy Time: 8am- 1pm 12150 Gordon Rd. Fredericksburg, VA 22407 Every Saturday HYROX Signature Series @F45 Training- Stafford Time: 11:30am- 12:15pm 35 Walpole St., Ste. 109 Stafford, VA 22554

BECOME A NEIGHBORHOOD AMBASSADOR!

By Liz Hensel

Stafford Living is in need of Neighborhood Ambassadors.

In an age where technology often distracts us from the world outside our front door, neighborhood ambassadors are a beacon of hope for building stronger, more connected communities. As a neighborhood ambassador your efforts and dedication to fostering unity among residents have a profound impact on the quality of life in our neighborhoods.

This is a great way to connect with other neighbors, promote local activities, and advocate for your community. If you are interested in becoming your neighborhood’s ambassador, please email mhardgrove@bestversionmedia.com.

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August2026 17

KIDS

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BACK TO SCHOOL

By Stephanie Cox, Owner, Art Cart Kids Enrichment Studio

Whether your child is in preschool or headed to college, having an organized space to focus on school work is important to help children feel more confident. A special place for homework gives children a consistent space where they can keep their supplies together and build good study habits. This space does not need to be large or fancy—a small desk, table, or quiet corner can work well. When children know exactly where to find their materials and where to complete their schoolwork, homework becomes easier to manage and less stressful. An organized space helps children take responsibility for their belongings and develop independence that will benefit them throughout the school year. This month I will show you a fun and creative way to keep those supplies organized.

Supplies needed: • At least one cardboard toilet paper or paper towel roll • A pencil • Scissors • Construction paper, markers, crayons and/or stickers to decorate • Tape • Optional: Glue or a glue stick and a little patience.

Steps: 1. Cut your t.p. roll or paper towel roll to the size you want it. You can make this project with just one or many rolls together.

2. Use a pencil and scissors to cut a piece of construction paper to fit around the roll.

You can also skip this step and go on to step 3.

3. Decorate the paper or tube with markers, crayons, and or stickers. This will be easier while the paper is flat.

4. Tape the roll to a piece of construction paper or cardboard. See photo.

5. Next wrap the decorated paper around the roll and tape it on. If you use glue, hold it there for a minute or so to be sure it sticks. This is where patience is needed.

6. Repeat the process for as many rolls as you wish to have.

7. Your pencil/school supply holder is ready to be placed in your special homework space and filled with supplies.

About Art Cart Kids: Art Cart Kids Enrichment Studio is a child-choice art space where creativity and confidence grow side by side. Located at 77 Bells Hill Rd, in Stafford VA, each child is given the freedom to make independent decisions, follow their imagination, and create artwork that is entirely their own. In this calm, supportive environment, children learn that mistakes are a natural and valuable part of the process. Small missteps become opportunities to problem-solve, adjust, and try again—building resilience and self-trust along the way.

As your child explores, chooses, and creates, confidence begins to take root. They discover that their ideas matter, that challenges can be worked through, and that they are capable of figuring things out. This is a place where independence is nurtured, creativity feels easy and open-ended, and every child leaves feeling more sure of themselves than when they arrived.

Ready to give your child a simple, creative space where imagination leads the way? Check out our classes, camps and parties at ArtCartKids.com.

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