Sponsored

This week’s Q&A column is sponsored and written by Lisa Groover of McEnearney Associates Realtors®, the leading real estate firm in Alexandria. To learn more about this article and relevant Alexandria market news, contact Lisa at 703-919-4426 or email [email protected]. You may also submit your questions to McEnearney Associates via email for response in future columns.

Question: As a dog owner, would you share some suggestions for things to consider when purchasing (or renting) a home?


News

Ricasso, known to his friends as Rico, made international headlines for his tail painting antics and has raised enough money that all adult adoptions at the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria (AWLA) are currently free.

“All of our adult animals have their adoption fees waived, so that’s nearly 35 who are available right now,” said Gina Hardter, spokesperson for AWLA. “That number can change based on animals adopted and new animals coming into the shelter through the end of the year.”


News

Alexandria Has a New Fire Chief — “After a nationally competitive recruitment effort, City Manager Mark B. Jinks has appointed Corey A. Smedley as fire chief for the City of Alexandria, effective immediately. Chief Smedley, who has served as acting fire chief since the retirement of Robert C. Dubé in June, will be the first African American to serve as permanent fire chief in Alexandria’s history.” [City of Alexandria]

Dog’s Artwork Sells at Auction — “A new artist has captured the attention of local art lovers selling 20 pieces of art in less than an hour at an auction. All it took has a little tail wagging, and the dog nicknamed Ricasso had a collection of masterpieces. Rico, a dog staying at the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria for 15 months, raised more than $4,000 to help shelter pets like him at the sold-out Dec. 6 event.” [Patch]


News

The Animal Welfare League of Alexandria wants to find a home for a big elf this Christmas.

Technically, Marshmallow is a dog, but Animal Welfare League spokesperson Gina Hardter called him a “reluctant elf.” Marshmallow is available for adoption at the Vola Lawson Animal Shelter (4101 Eisenhower Avenue).


News

Priscilla, a two-year-old terrier mix at the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria (AWLA) is a bundle of energy, but she’s sweet and hoping for a home to help her relax.

The pup is very excitable but has been training in patience and meditation with the AWLA staff, according to Gina Hardter, spokesperson for the organization.


News

Ricasso, né Rico, came to the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria last fall, according to Gina Hardter, director of marketing and communications for the AWLA. He quickly perfected sit, stay and shake, but staff noticed his constant tail-wagging and had an ambitious idea.

“When he was introduced to some washable paint, ‘Ricasso’ was born,” Hardter said.


News

If you’ve ever thought “I want to drink beer outdoors, with other people, but I also want to hang out with my dog,” Port City has the event for you.

Dogtoberfest, scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 19, is a free event planned in the parking lot of Port City Brewing Company’s brewery at 3950 Wheeler Avenue.