Helping Animal Rescue Groups with Donations

Animal shelters and rescue groups are strapped to their limits throughout the United States. The number of animals that have become homeless is sky rocketing through this country, and space at shelters are limited. Often times, highly adoptable animals are rejected at the doors simply because there is no room. Many animals come to rescue groups with serious illnesses and the team of veterinarians fight desperately to save them and prove them adoptable. You see the commercials, and feel guilty not being able to help. The truth is that you can help. By donating things that others would simply throw away, or having a small yard sale and donating the funds, you too can become one of those that contribute to the well being of an otherwise homeless and desperate animal.

Throughout this article, I am going to explore some of the things that shelters and rescue groups need in order to care for the animals properly. Lets face it, a lot of animals in city shelters have limited days to live. It's a very sad and disturbing fact, but don't you think the last days of their lives should be spent on a warm blanket with a toy by their side, rather than lying on a cold service all alone? I do, and this is why I'm sharing this with you.

Here is a list of donations that truly make a difference.

Clay Kitty Litter - This is one of the most important things needed. Can you imagine how many cats are currently living at shelters? Most shelters use over 300 lbs of cat litter weekly!

Bleach - Bleach is very important, as It's used for cleaning and ridding the shelter of germs. A healthy animal makes for a more adoptable animal.

Laundry detergent - Shelters go through many towels each week. Everything needs to be kept clean. It would be a great idea to provide them with a regular detergent, as well as a hypoallergenic detergent for animals that have sensitive skin.

Collars and leashes- Collars and leashes of all sizes can be donated.

Toys - Shelter animals are often in cages for long periods of time. Toys can make a bad day a little brighter. It stimulates play, brings excitement, and they can also be used for training purposes.

Towels and Blankets - As I stated previously, these are very important to shelters. They can be used for bedding, cleaning, or even animals that come to the shelter wounded. All blankets and towels must be washable.

Paper Towels - These are used for cleaning and sanitizing. Very inexpensive to donate, and are very helpful.

Pet Carriers - Often times, these are used for transporting pets for services, or even used in rescuing.

Pet food - This is a great donation, as you can imagine how much food these shelters go through on a weekly basis. Make sure to check with the shelter receiving this donation, as they may prefer a specific type of food.

Grooming Supplies - Before being adopted, all animals are bathed and groomed properly. Brushes, Shampoos, Combs, and nail clippers can always be used.
Beds and scratching posts - Many shelters have large cat rooms available for cats to roam freely and play in. Cat condos and scratching posts are always a great addition for these rooms, as well as comfortable cat beds.

Money - Money goes a long way for animal shelters and rescue groups. All animals that come through the door need proper veterinary care and are spayed and neutered on arrival. The costs truly add up quickly.

As with any organization, each is different. Make sure to check with them before donating, as they may have further items that are also desperately needed.

Supporting shelters and rescue groups is a wonderful thing to do. The services they do for these animals are priceless, and they truly need all of the help they can get. The more help they receive, the more help they are able to bring to animals in need. By making these donations, you're helping an animal have a fighting chance at life.