Animal charities are often forgotten when human charities take over during the holidays. Whether it’s donations or volunteers, it’s a difficult time of year for most.
To give them a boost during the holidays, we put together this list and checked it twice! There are suggestions for product donations, handmade items, home stores, and volunteering. I can’t promise this will put you on the “nice” list, but it’s a step in the right direction.
Donation Suggestions for Animal Shelters
Keep in mind that animal shelters can accommodate animals of all kinds, including hamsters, birds, reptiles, rabbits and ferrets, so supplies for all species are often appreciated.
Some items, such as dog food, may be provided on an ongoing basis by sponsors. We suggest contacting your local shelter to find out what they need.
Here is a list of items that animal shelters frequently need:
Crates and cages
Beds for cats and dogs
Old towels, blankets or rugs
Disposable litter for all species including straw, timothy and rodent/reptile litter
Heating pads
Healthy food and treats for all pet species
Kitten milk replacement
Stainless steel bowls
Grooming Supplies
Leashes, harnesses and collars
Cat litter
Syringes, gauze and other medical supplies
Cotton balls and cotton swabs
Easily sterilizable toys
Dog sweaters
Garbage bags and grocery bags
Buckets and buckets
Brooms and mops
Bleach
Disinfectant wipes
Laundry
Hydroalcoholic gel
Latex gloves
Spray bottles
Printer paper, envelopes, stamps and other office supplies
Gift cards to department stores, pet stores and gas stations
Many shelters now have wish lists on Amazonmaking it quick and easy to give them exactly what they need.
Craft donations are usually welcomed at shelters and make excellent scrap projects. Shelter blankets are perfect practice if you are a beginner or want to learn new stitches. Animals won’t notice your mistakes. Check with the shelter before you start so you know what they can use. Some popular items are blankets, sweaters, dog booties, and sturdy toys. Start with our list of Free Knitting, Crochet and Sewing Patterns for Animal Shelters.
More ways to help
• Taking in a shelter animal for the holiday season or adopting a new pet is a great idea, IF you have time to devote to them during the hectic holidays. Adoption should only be considered after careful thought, review and research. Never adopt or buy an animal as a surprise gift unless it is your own family and you are willing to be personally responsible for it.
• Your time is a coveted gift for animal welfare charities. Please help with general volunteer activities or donate your special skills, such as carpentry or graphic design.
• You can do your holiday shopping through local charities and online to help them raise funds and awareness. Check out this list of Animal charities with gift purchases for ideas.
• This is a particularly good time to make a cash donation.
• Last but not least, we can raise awareness through blog posts and social media sharing.
Don’t forget about homeless animals this holiday season, it will bring great joy to them and to you.
Authors biography :
Melody McKinnon Research into natural pet care began with a curiosity about the failing immune systems of tropical fish and has since grown to include the natural, holistic care of all pets. In addition, she has CA Digital Media Group and is the author of ‘7 Recession-Proof Online Businesses to Start From Home.’ Melody covers a variety of pet care topics on AllNaturalPetCare.com.
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A previous version of this article was published by Melody McKinnon on All Natural Pet Care. Authorized reissue as is, with byline, author biography and this notation (including links). Image provided by Upload photos for editorial use only.
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