How To Help Your Local Shelter

The first full week of November is considered "National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week" - What a great way to say "thank you" to all of the people who run animal shelters. It takes a lot of time and dedication to keep these rescues going. Every day people are turning their pets over to shelters that are mostly volunteer run. We've put together a few ways that you can help your local shelter...

1) Volunteer

Most shelters are looking for people to socialize with the animals, walk the dogs and take them to adoption events as well as cleaning of the kennels. They also look for people who can do basic office jobs such as answering the phone and data entry. Check out your local shelters website because there are many other volunteer opportunities!

2) Foster

Some people say they can't handle fostering because it's too heartbreaking. After having watched my previous boss foster over and over again I will admit a lot of tears were shed but there honestly isn't anything more rewarding! Getting pictures and updates from their forever home and seeing how happy they are is worth every tear.

3) Donate

You don't have to just donate money to make a difference. If you go to your local shelter or their website, most will have a list of products that they need like blankets, cleaning products, toys, food, treats, etc. Every bit helps.

4) Like their social media pages

If you like their social media pages you'll be up to date on any events they have going on. Plus you can also share any adoption profiles or fundraisers that will bring more awareness and traffic to that shelter.

5) Be creative!

If you like to sew make bandana's with "Adopt Me" embroidered on them. Also, I once heard of a young kid having a birthday party and instead of asking for presents he wanted he asked for his guests to bring pet toys, beds, treats and anything else he could donate to his local shelter.

These are just a few ways you can help. If you can think of more ways to help please feel free to share in the comments below.

Taryn & Zoey

Carol & Charlee