AWLA

Despite being “cute as a button” and possessing all the charm of a young puppy, Connie has been waiting at the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria (AWLA) for her forever family to find her. The 37-pound black and white pup, who came to the shelter as a local stray, is ready to bring joy and energy to the right household.

At just 10 months old, Connie embodies everything people love about puppies—she’s playful, affectionate, and eager to please. Her favorite pastimes include chasing squeaky toys (which “hate to see this playful pup coming,” according to AWLA), going on walks and runs, and being the center of attention with new people she meets.

The Animal Welfare League of Alexandria (AWLA) is expanding its community outreach efforts with the launch of its summer Alexandria Animal Academy, a comprehensive dog training program designed to help pet owners build stronger relationships with their four-legged companions.

The seven-week virtual training program, which begins Sunday, July 6, offers three specialized learning tracks targeting common behavioral challenges that dog owners face. At $200 per track, the courses aim to make professional dog training accessible to families throughout the region.

The Animal Welfare League of Alexandria (AWLA) is hosting a special adoption event this weekend, waiving fees for larger dogs to help them find homes more quickly.

Their “Splish, Splash Big Dog Adoption Bash” runs from June 6-8 and covers all pups weighing 40 pounds or more.