Give back to the Community in Little Ways that are really BIG

With the state of our current economy and consequently the state of our canine companions as a result of the slowing economy, many times families are no longer in a position to be able to share their life with their four legged friends.  And so it goes that our local and distant animal shelters are becoming overwhelmed and falling short of all of their daily needs.  There are so many ways in which we are able to assist everyone who is in need.

1.  Volunteer your time and skills- Whether you are walking dogs, helping at adoption events or providing expertise as a trainer, there’s definitely a place for you at the local shelter.

2.  Donate a dog bed- With all of the crowded conditions, chances are that shelters are lacking sufficient blankets, towels and soft sleeping mats for their residents.  Donate a shelter tested, durable bed.

3.  Support spay-neuter clinics- Offering a donation to a shelter to boost their spay and neuter clinics’ funds will help all of the dogs and reduce the strain on local shelters.

4. Say thanks- Let the shelter staff know how much you appreciate all that they do for the community and maybe add a small gift to the shelter, from their wish list.

5. Adopt or foster an animal- Considering the adoption of a shelter dog will do wonders for their spirits, health and well-being.  Even if you are unable to keep the dog "fur-ever", you are offering a creature a safe and caring place until he finds a permanent place elsewhere.

6. Learn how to assist abandoned or injured dogs- Local animal control officers and shelters depend upon the community to reach out to animals in need.  Learn about animal first aid, CPR, and which community phone numbers you need.

7.  Add a banner to your web page- If you post a banner to your website, you will show your support and appreciation to the local animal shelters, and you may encourage others to help as well.

8.  Donate an animal sheltering magazine subscription- There are periodicals that do incredible work to share information, post articles, list adoptions and so many other tasks that the workers in the shelters just don’t have a spare moment to offer.  Anyone who picks up one of these magazines becomes informed and may seek an adoption and furever friend.

9. Share toys, supplies, and  "stuff"- Donate any clean used or new dog toy, shampoo and grooming supplies, and assorted other dog need to your local shelter.  The smiles are so very rewarding!

Don’t forget to read Toys: The Soft, Plush, and Cushiony for more ideas.