Even with all the amazing rescue volunteers out there, keeping up a local animal shelter full of abandoned pets can be quite an overwhelming task. This is especially true for rescue organizations that don’t have a lot of money, which is why it’s up to us to do our part and pitch in. Of course, we may not be able to donate a lot of time or money to this cause, but there are plenty of steps we can take to support our town’s animal shelters. Remember, one small contribution can make a world of difference. Check out some of the ways you can get involved below:
1. Shop and Search Online
You can help your cat shelter just by searching the internet or make a purchase online.
Goodsearch is a Yahoo! powered search engine and at no-cost to you they donate to your favorite charity. Select your cause and they will donate a penny for almost every search you do online. They also offer Goodshop.
Goodshop: Shop at one of the 2,800 participating stores (from Amazon to Zazzle) and a percentage of what you spend will be donated to your cause at no cost to you. Oh, and by the way, there’s a big added bonus here too. Goodshop lists more than 100,000 coupons and deals so you could save money while doing good. They also offer Gooddine, Goodgames, Goodsurveys and more.
If you like shopping online then also check out iGive. When you use iGive to search the web, your favorite cause receives a penny for each search. The money comes from advertisers, so it costs you nothing, and it’s completely free for you and the cause you support. If you shop online through iGive.com, they have over 1,400 participating online stores to choose from. And up to 26% of each purchase will be donated to your favorite cause. Since 1997, they have donated over $7,000,000 to specials causes.
2. Volunteer
This is probably one of the easiest and yet, most meaningful, ways to show your appreciation for your local animal rescue. Many shelters around the globe are looking for individuals who can donate some time, whether it’s a couple hours a week or even just once a year, to help clean and care for these animals. Besides nurturing the animals themselves, you can also aid in keeping the facility in tip top shape. We suggest calling your nearby shelter to see when the best time to drop by is.
3. Use Your Best Skills
Just because you don’t have the means to give a lot of money to your closest cat rescue doesn’t mean that you can’t contribute using some of your skills and talents. If you have a special hobby like photography or putting together short videos, this could help immensely. By highlighting both the cats and shelter, you’re drawing in attention to the cause that could make a huge difference.
4. Spread the Word
There is no better way to bring focus to your local animal rescue than by word of mouth. When you talk to people about the cause and the kinds of animals that they are saving, you’re getting people involved in some way, shape or form, while educating them in the process. Post Facebook statuses, tweet out messages, do whatever you need to do to make sure that everyone in your circle of family and friends is well aware of what’s going on and what they can do to help.
5. Take in a Cat from the Shelter
To truly help the cats that are living in your local shelter, consider fostering one. In fact, out of all the ways you can support rescue organizations, this one is the most rewarding. Here, you’re not only receiving love from an animal that was down on his or her luck, but you’re also giving back to the shelter from the comforts of your own home. It really is a win-win situation.
<Also Read: Fostering A Cat>
6. Give Away Your Pets’ Old Items
A lot of times your local animal rescue can desperately use some extra supplies, so why not donate a bunch of your pets’ used items? Contact the shelter first and see if they have a wish list of materials or goods that they’re specifically looking for. However, just make sure whatever items you contribute are clean and safe for future use.
Photos: Thinkstock
