With the struggling economy and cold weather, some shelters are barely hanging on this holiday season. Your first thought to help might be to adopt a shelter dog, if you’re ready for that, great! But don’t plan on giving it to a friend, girlfriend or family member. Pets are not gifts, they are commitments and the person receiving the pet needs to make sure that they are ready for that commitment. What can you do to help you may ask? There’s lots!
1. Cash donations. Animal shelters and rescue groups are always happy to take cash donations. Most are 501c3 organizations which means not only are you helping your fuzzy friends, it’s a tax write off! So when thinking about giving this holiday season, remember your local shelter.
2. Donate Items. Cash isn’t always king! Shelters can always use other things than just cash to keep the lights on. Most are always looking for blankets, beds, cleaning supplies, paper towels, leashes, toys, crates, water and food bowls and treats. Not sure what your local shelter needs? Visit their website or call them, they will be more than happy to help you out!
3. Time. Whether or not you can afford to donate cash or items, you can always donate time to volunteer! Ask your local shelter how you can help. They always need people to help walk and wash dogs, assist visitors, volunteer at adoption events and more. Not only do these things help the shelter keep costs down, they help pets get socialized so it’s a win-win.
Find a local shelter or rescue group near you to pitch in this season!
