Obviously money is key to any welfare or rescue group. Vet bills alone can head into the thousands of dollars and then there are food and power bills, bedding, enrichment … well the list just goes on. If you can donate that is awesome; if things are a bit tight, don’t worry there many other things you can do to help reduce the number of animals looking for new homes and heading into a rescue programme.
Desex your pet
Desexing your pet is the most important thing you can do. By doing so you are ensuring your pet does not become a “problem” by reproducing. If you are concerned about the cost of desexing then talk to your local vet to see if there are any free or discounted desexing programmes in your area.
Volunteer at a shelter
Volunteers are almost always needed. Contact your local shelter or pet rescue organisation and ask if they need another pair of hands. Perhaps they need help manning phones, feeding animals or managing social media. If they have dogs, they may need a walker or perhaps they have horses or lifestyle animals and need help with mucking out stalls.
Become a foster family
Foster families are a very important aspect for many rescue facilities. If you have the room or time to look after animals that need some time to be assessed or recuperate, then becoming a foster family is very rewarding.
Spread the word
Tell your friends and family about the importance of desexing their pet or the help your local organisation/s need. Share flyers and helpful posts on social media so all your followers become informed. Knowledge is power.
Adopt
Thinking of getting a new addition to the family then consider adoption. There are so many pets out there that are looking for their new forever home. Visit your local shelter or rescue organisation and talk to them about what you are looking for and they will be able to match you with a pet that will suit your family.
Donate items
Items like blankets, food bowls, toys, newspapers and treatments such as wormers or flea treatments are all great items that you can donate at minimal cost. If you have knitting/crocheting skills, whip up some catnip toys; old bedding can be washed and then cut down to make blankets or beds and newspapers are useful for lining crates and cages.
Become a collector
Most organisations will have a collection day or may sell merchandise. Run a funday or BBQ to raise money. Get involved and give your time as a collector or offer to help with the fun days.
Don’t buy from unscrupulous breeders
By purchasing your pet from an unscrupulous breeder you are supporting their practices and many of their animals will end up in shelters. If you wish to purchase a new pet then research breeders that are breeding for the betterment of their breed and not just “farming” for money.
Pay it forward
If you have a lifestyle property, offer free grazing or hay to a person and/or organisation that rescues and rehomes livestock. If you are finished with collars, halters, leads, crates, etc, then pass them on free to those who need them.
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