Let's face it- we have millions too many animals in our world
today, largely due to the fact that many people either refuse or
are unable to spay or neuter their pets. To help combat the pet
overpopulation problem, we have animal shelters.
However, most animal shelters are critically understaffed and
underfunded. Volunteers of any kind are always needed!
If you choose to spend some of your time volunteering* in any
way for a local animal shelter, here are some things you can do
which will greatly help the shelter.
*You should contact the shelter of your choice to determine what
their specific needs are as all shelters differ in their choice
of cleaning supplies, food, vet care and the like.
SUPPLIES:
Of course, first and foremost, are monetary donations, no
matter how small. The money goes towards food, much needed vet
care, electricity for the shelter, any shelter employees
salaries, possible needed advertising, upkeep of the shelter...
and the list goes on. Every dollar is very well spent and
greatly appreciated.
Cleaning supplies. This includes paper towels, bleach, laundry
soap, dish soap, sponges, disinfectant, mops, brooms.
Old towels, toys, old clothes, blankets, shampoo, newspapers,
dog and cat houses, batteries of any size.
Dry food. Most shelters use dry dog and cat food, however,
either will be greatly appreciated.
THINGS YOU CAN DO:
Show up at a shelter one day and ask to be put to work. You can
wash dishes, clean the stalls, foster pets, walk the dogs, groom
the pets, and possibly assist with adoptions and pet therapy.
If you are going to be doing the cleaning, prepare to get dirty.
Stalls must be cleaned daily. Dishes are usually washed with
bleach, so ensure you wear old clothes. All towels, blankets,
etc must be laundered daily. Litter boxes must be cleaned daily.
The outside kennels must be cleaned daily. The indoor dogs must
be walked daily.
Remember- people do these jobs every day, Monday through Sunday,
and it's a very tiring job. Help for even a few hours one day is
extremely welcomed.
It's an established fact that those who help others- even if
that other is not of the human variety- feel better about
themselves. Giving releases a feel good chemical in our brains
which induces a feeling of well being and we all could use a
dose of that!
The animals, and volunteers will thank you for it and you will
feel great knowing you did your part in helping those who cannot
help themselves.
So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and give a little
today! The rewards are tremendous.
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