8 ways to support your local animal shelter

    support local shelters

Your local animal shelter could use your help, and there are many great options to go about giving it. Check out our list of meaningful ways to make a big difference in the lives of lost and homeless pets in your community.

 

 

• How to help your local animal shelter with donations:

The cost of feeding, housing and caring for so many animals can sure add up quickly. Whether it’s money, pet food or supplies, every little bit helps! 

• Volunteer your time and skill.

 When thinking about how to help an animal shelter, volunteering is a great start. Shelters need a fleet of dog walkers, but they also benefit from specialized skills. The help of professionals like carpenters, plumbers, event planners, photographers and many more are sure to be put to good use.

• Regift gently used pet items.

Wondering how to help your local animal shelter in a simple way? Donate gently used pet toys, beds or other supplies your pet no longer uses. Let a shelter pet enjoy them instead!

• Shop the wish list.

Check your shelter’s wish list the next time you head to the store to see if you can pick up one or two of their much-needed products, like cleaning or office supplies.

• Follow, share and like.

Get engaged with your shelter’s social media accounts. Who knows? One of your circle of friends may find their future pet thanks to you.

• Foster a shelter pet.

Open your home to a foster pet while they wait for their forever home. With a little bit of prep, your pet is bound to love their new buddy!

• Adopt.

The ultimate way to change a pet’s life and support your local animal shelter is to adopt a pet. If you’re thinking it’s time to expand your pack, consider your local shelter to adopt instead of buying a pet.

• Prevent lost pets.

Keep cats safely indoors and dogs securely on leash during walks to avoid your pet getting lost. Be sure to microchip your pet and keep their tags current so the shelter can find you in a jiffy if necessary.


VCA Charities provides food and medical care to homeless pets in need, and helps shelters and animal welfare organizations care for adoptable animals. Find out how to help us deliver on our mission here.

Start helping your shelter today by always having your pet’s microchip number and other critical documents, like vaccination records, on hand with the myVCA app.
Download myVCA today >>