I’ve totally been hit with a case of puppy fever! However, I’ll have to live vicariously through those of you who are able to add a new furry family member into your lives. Two high energy, high maintenance, dogs are my limit, at least for now. Despite not technically being puppies anymore, my two manage to keep me plenty busy!
On the bright side, I feel so blessed to have Kit and Fen in my life. I know not everyone is as lucky. Some rentals don’t allow pets. Some people may love animals but be allergic to them, or financially unable to care for one of their own. Whether you’re like me and already have your hands full with the animals you already have, or adopting a pet isn’t in the cards for you for other reasons, there are still some amazing things you can do to help animals in need!
- Foster: Many animal shelters utilize a network of foster families to help care for homeless animals. Caring for animals in foster homes means that they are not submitted to the stress of living in a cage at the shelter. It also opens up more space in the shelter so they are able to take in and care for more needy animals. Having animals live in foster homes can help them get used to living in a home environment. If you can’t afford to adopt an animal of your own, fostering might be a great way for you to help out. The shelter or rescue you foster for usually pays for fees associated with the animals care. All you usually have to provide is your time and love.
- Donate: Donations are always welcome! Donated money can go a long way towards helping to pay for the care of homeless animals. If you are unable to donate money, consider donating items such as pet food, toys, and supplies. Even things like paper towels, old blankets and bath towels, garbage bags, cleaning supplies, or office supplies are usually highly appreciated.
- Donate services or your time: Volunteer! If you’re unable to spend time working with shelter animals directly, considering offering your services to help instead. For example, if you are an electrician or a plumber, see if the shelter can use your services. You could also help advertise, run a donation drive, or use your creativity to make things to sell then donate the proceeds. The possibilities are endless! See if you can find a way to use your talents, hobbies, or skills to help out.
- There’s an app for that: With the world becoming more and more connected through the internet, lots of people are finding ways to help animals in need without ever even leaving their computer desk. Whether it’s organizing online donation drives, or sharing information about your local rescue with your friends/followers, every little bit helps! On of my all time favorite phone apps, for example, is WoofTrax
. WoofTrax helps you track your stats while you walk your dog- things like how far you traveled, maps of your routes, and how long you walked for. It also allows you to raise money for a rescue of your choice just by walking! What’s better than being able to raise money to help homeless animals by going for a walk!?
There are plenty of ways to make a difference in the lives of homeless animals. I’m currently not able to foster or adopt. I donate what I can, volunteer, and spend a lot of time raising awareness about responsible pet ownership. I’m happy that there are ways I can make at least small differences in the lives of homeless animals. Can you think of any other ways to help besides those I mentioned? I’d love to hear about them in the comments below!
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