Animals in shelters need more than just love and attention. They need items to keep them entertained, comfortable, and healthy. From pet toys to office supplies, there are many ways you can help animals in shelters. Toys are a great way to keep homeless dogs and cats entertained and happy.
Soft items, such as towels and blankets, can be used to clean, provide bedding, and make animals more comfortable during activities such as physical exams. Shelters and rescue groups always need these items, so check their websites for wish lists or call them to find out what's in short supply. You can also help by following local animal shelters and animal rescue groups on Facebook, then inviting your friends and family to “like” them and follow them as well. Donations of old armchairs, cribs, or smaller furniture can be used to give dogs a place to rest.
Donations can also be used to help cover the costs of daily operations, supplies, staff training, animal housing improvements, community outreach programs, animal enrichment, and more. Paper towels, garbage bags, rubber gloves, spray bottles, storage containers and zip bags are some of the items that help animal shelters stay clean and organized. Pens, folders, notebooks, electronic devices and batteries are also needed in the office. If you have any of these items at home that you don't need anymore, consider donating them. If you bought food or treats in bulk that your puppy didn't like or if you change your dog's food and have leftover unopened bags, you can donate them to an animal shelter. Some shelters may also use bowls but call ahead to find out what types they accept. Even if none of these things are feasible for you, there are many items that could be useful at the shelter and that you could donate to improve the lives of the animals.
If you can't adopt a pet right now, you can help improve the lives of animals in your community by volunteering at a local shelter or rescue organization.
