Volunteer with Animals
Five Ways to Help Animals
Do you have a special place in your heart for furry friends? Consider volunteering with animals. Read on to find rewarding ways to help animals.
According to the Humane Society of the United States, 6-8 million cats and dogs enter shelters each year and 3-4 million are euthanized by shelters. Here are some ways to help change these sobering statistics:
- Volunteer at an Animal Shelter- Animal shelters are always in need of volunteers. Assist with administrative tasks, such as answering phones and filing, or help by cleaning cages and filling food and water dishes. Visit pets911.com to find an animal shelter in your area. Search by zip code to get a list of local animal shelters.
- Throw a Cat or Dog Food Drive- Consider throwing a food drive for needy animals. This endeavor is as simple as putting up a crate and sign at your workplace, veterinarian office, or a local business that will let you use a corner for your cause. Make a sign asking people to help out animals in need by donating dog or cat food. Note which animal shelter or organization will benefit from their generosity.
- Join an Animal Organization- There are many worthy animal organizations dedicated to the plight of needy animals. These nonprofits run the gamut—from fighting for animal rights to providing the elderly or ill with animal visits to lift their spirits. Volunteers are needed to help at events, raise money, and promote the organization. To search for an animal organization near you visit Petfinder.com.
- Foster a Pet- Many animal shelters struggle with an overwhelming demand for space to house homeless animals. Additionally, many homeless pets come from hostile environments and need to be socialized before they are adoptable. Fostering a pet is a great way to help animals, and a nice option if you aren’t ready to commit to a full-time pet yet.
- Fundraising for Animals- Fundraising for your favorite animal shelter or organization can be as quick and painless as putting up a coin jar at your local coffee shop or drug store. Similar to the food drive, make a sign urging animal lovers to donate their small change to a great cause. If you are ready to make a larger commitment, consider running in a race or even a marathon to raise money. Many races allow participants to fundraise for their cause of choice.
According to Dr. Sandra B. Barker’s Psychiatric Times article, “Therapeutic Aspects of the Human-Companion Animal Interaction,” many studies support the therapeutic value of the human-companion animal interaction. Volunteering with animals will not only help them, but will also benefit you and enrich your life. Seek out a volunteer opportunity today.
The copyright of the article Volunteer with Animals in Pet Care is owned by Sara Schapmann. Permission to republish Volunteer with Animals in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
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