Compassion in Action: October 2026

Earlier this month, 128 community cats received lifesaving preventative care in a single day.   

Our teams at the Susan M. Markel Veterinary Hospital and Smoky’s Spay & Neuter Clinic joined forces with local Banfield Pet Hospitals for a high-volume Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-Return (TNVR) day. This bi-annual effort is supported by dedicated cat caregivers and nonprofit rescue partners, assisting with locating, trapping, and transporting feral cats. 
 
Together, these incredible veterinary teams provided sterilization surgeries and vaccinations to 128 cats, helping them stay healthier and compassionately managing the unowned, free-roaming cat population in Greater Richmond. 

Over the past year, more than 2,000 kittens came through the Richmond SPCA, and 755 of those kittens required foster care to grow, thrive and await adoption. Commonly referred to as kitten season, this influx of litters during the warmer months presents health risks to both mom and babies, as well as a burden on overcrowded shelters across the state.  

Humane management through TNVR is beneficial to the safety and wellbeing of the animals and the communities they live in. From veterinary professionals and shelter staff to caregivers and rescue organizations, days like this are a true team effort. 

82,032 lives saved since becoming no-kill in 2002