Ways to Help Local Dog Rescue Groups
The holidays are the perfect time to donate to dog rescue groups in your area. Believe it or not, every dollar directly donated really does help these groups find forever homes for abandoned dogs in your neighborhood. While it’s totally appealing and easy to donate to huge rescue groups, your local dog rescue heroes are the most in need.
Below, we provide you tips on finding and donating to local non-profit dog rescue organizations. It’s worth the extra 10 minutes of research. 🙂
Finding a Local Rescue Group
Your local dog rescue groups really need your support. These local groups completely rely on your donations and support. They don’t receive funds from larger rescue organizations, and most are unable to take in many dogs due to restricted cash flow. Yep, when you’re told a local rescue group is full, this means they don’t have enough money to take in a dog. So I beg you to find a group that could use your donation immediately. By donating locally, this makes more room for dogs found in your neighborhood.
Finding local dog rescue groups is pretty easy. All you have to do is call your local pet supply retailer for the group’s contact information. You can also check out www.petfinder.com for a list in your area by punching in your zip code.
RELATED: Rescue Dogs Need Your Help
Purchase From Their Wish List
Once you’ve chosen a local dog rescue group, you can usually donate directly on their website. If donating a lump sum of cash feels kind of cold, browse their website for a wish list of items needed. Purchase dog food and beds, reimburse veterinary bills (this is a big one, as most stray dogs have never seen a vet), or buy toys.
If your local rescue doesn’t have a website, send an email or give them a call about donations. Don’t worry if you don’t hear back within a few days. These folks are volunteers, meaning they don’t generate huge salaries from donations. And honestly, these folks are probably chasing a stray dog near you, which is why they were unable to answer the phone or call you right back.
Sponsor a Dog in Need
By far, sponsoring a dog is my favorite way to donate to local rescue organizations. Most rescue groups post dogs currently in rescue, so reach out either by email or social media to ask what items are needed. By choosing to sponsor a specific dog, you can watch his journey in finding a forever home and even stay in touch with his forever pet owners. It’s so rewarding to watch a dog you helped get back on his feet and flourish.
RELATED: Adopting a Rescue Dog
Get Your Children Involved
The holidays is the perfect time to shift our focus to the real meaning of Christmas. It’s not about getting presents; it’s about giving to those in need. Take this special time and get your children involved in raising funds for local shelters by selling cookies, asking neighbors for old blankets (always needed in rescue), and setting up a dog food or bed drive.
Foster
If you’re lucky enough to have extra space in your home to nurture a stray dog back to health, please do so. For those living in apartments or already have a home full of pets, please donate funds instead.
Every little bit counts, so donate to a local dog rescue organization. They’re the heroes of your city and neighborhoods!