V irginia is just 7% away from making history. With a statewide shelter save rate of 83%, we are within reach of becoming the largest no-kill state in the country—a powerful reflection of our compassion and commitment to animals.

A “no-kill” designation means a 90% save rate for shelter pets, acknowledging that about 10% of animals may require euthanasia due to severe medical or behavioral issues. Today, more than half of Virginia’s 130+ shelters—80 in total—have already reached this benchmark. That progress is no accident. It’s the result of tireless efforts from shelter staff, rescue groups, volunteers, and advocates working together across the Commonwealth.

But to cross the finish line, we need one simple thing: more people adopting.

Just 0.1% of Virginians—less than one-tenth of one percent—choosing to adopt rather than buy a pet could push our state into no-kill territory. That’s about 100 adoptions per House of Delegates district. It’s a small action with enormous impact.

Every time someone adopts a dog or cat from a Virginia shelter or rescue, they help save a life—and make space for another animal in need. It’s not just an act of kindness; it’s a step toward transforming our state.

Can’t adopt? Consider fostering. Just a small increase in foster volunteers and adoptions would allow Virginia to reach this milestone easily.

At Homeward Trails Animal Rescue, we’ve seen firsthand how powerful community-based solutions can be, especially fostering, as we started and remain mostly a foster-based organization. Since our founding in 2002, Homeward Trails has rescued more than 43,000 animals. But we don’t stop at rescue. We also provide education, training, and lifesaving resources in Virginia’s most under-resourced areas, helping communities find sustainable ways to reduce animal homelessness.

Sue Bell is the founder and executive director of Homeward Trails Animal Rescue in Fairfax Station and Delaplane. With over 30 years in the nonprofit sector, she founded Homeward Trails in 2002 and has grown it into one of Virginia’s largest shelter and rescue organizations, rescuing over 43,000 animals to date.

Sue’s work extends beyond rescue, with a strong focus on education, community outreach, and sustainable solutions to animal homelessness. She serves on the Best Friends National Strategy Council and the board of the National Kitten College.