If you are an animal lover like me, you probably know that February 20th was National Love Your Pet Day, which of course we pet owners do every other day of the year. We spoil our pets, but what about the animals that don’t have homes yet? Shelter dogs and cats need just as much love as ours do, and even if we can’t add them to our families there are still some ways we can help them.
- Social media Let everyone know that you are an ally to your local animal shelter with these heartwarming images on your social media page (provided by the Humane Society of the United States). It’s a good way of sharing some information about the shelter’s presence in the area to those who are unaware. You can also use this to promote any upcoming adoption fairs or donation events to take the extra step.
- Get informed
Start by finding out what resources are around you. Locate shelters and rescue groups that are in your area. It’s good to know, especially if you find a stray animal that needs rescuing so you know exactly where to turn for help. Here are some locations near La Verne!
- DIYs Pinterest has tons of tutorials and ideas on homemade toys for dogs and cats. Make a day out of it and have some friends over for a crafting day and donate all your creations to the shelter. From tug-of-war ropes to little cat distractors, it can make a huge difference in the life of a shelter resident.
- Donate
Shelters and rescues, especially non profits, are always looking for donations. Common items in need include towels, blankets, beds, and even smaller items like newspapers, plastic bags, and paper towels (Animal Humane Society, 2018). Most places are unable to accept homemade treats and medication, but sparing a few dollars can help get them closer to affording them. Look online for your local shelter’s wish list or give them a call to see what they might need, you’d be surprised what you might be able to spare.
- Volunteer
I volunteered for years with a local rescue group near my high school and it was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life, and I was able to get all my volunteer hours by hanging out with pups! If you have any special skills that can be useful, including exceptional belly rubbing skills, local shelters love having volunteers help out. From administration with adoptions, sorting out donations, training animals, cleaning kennels, or just walking the dogs and hanging out with the animals, there are tons of ways you can get involved. Even if a short walk and some ear scratches may not seem like much contribution to you, it can mean the world for a homeless animal and can make their stay at the shelter less lonely. Inquire with your local shelter and see what you can do to help.
It’s important to try and keep animals out of shelters. You can do this by microchipping your pets and keeping them safe and off the streets, and also having them fixed as soon as you adopt them. Little things you do can make big differences in an animal’s life. Try giving some of these steps a try, you might even find a new hobby you enjoy.