How to Step Up and Help Neglected Pets in Your Community

Are you looking for ways to get involved in your community? Lending a hand to the neglected and abandoned pets in your neighborhood is a great way to make a difference. Millions of companion animals enter U.S. animal shelters every year. Statistics like these can be heartbreaking for anyone who has compassion toward animals. Thankfully, there’s a lot you can do to have a positive impact on the lives of neglected pets in your community. Here are some resources to help you get started, courtesy of DOGPAK.

Start an Animal Nonprofit

Nonprofits can do a lot of good for local animals. If you have some free time on your hands and you enjoy a challenge, consider launching your own nonprofit.

• First, choose a cause to support your nonprofit.

• Read up on the legal requirements for starting a nonprofit, like a 501c3.

• Consider volunteering at a local rescue nonprofit to learn how nonprofits are run.

Adopt a New Pet

Adopting a pet is a great way to support local animal shelters and provide a home to an abused or abandoned animal.

• Adopting a pet will open up shelter space and help fight puppy mills.

• If you’re not ready to adopt, you could foster shelter pets in your home until they find a new family.

• Depending on your home’s walk score, you could take your pet with you on walks and errands.

• Equip your dog with a DOGPAK Moab Lite Harness and Daypack for your longer walks.

• Be sure to prepare your home for your new pet so you can both enjoy a smooth and successful adoption experience.

• Whether you’re purchasing your new pet a crate, cat tree, or food bowl, read reviews first to learn about quality products.

Donate to Animal Shelters and Nonprofits

Whether you have money or supplies to donate, your contribution is bound to help shelter animals in your neighborhood.

• Because many animal shelters and charities operate as nonprofits, they rely on donations from compassionate people like you.

• Other than money, animal shelters often need old blankets, dog toys, pet food, and treats.

• Find other ways to help—check this out. You can make helpful infographics about donations, pet care, and more.

Report Cruelty to Animals

If you witness or suspect cruelty to animals, be sure to report it to the authorities immediately.

• Learn how to recognize signs of animal abuse and neglect.

• Report animal cruelty to your local police department, even if you don’t have proof.

We all have the power to help abused, neglected, and abandoned pets in our neighborhood. Whether you have money or time at your disposal, you can have a positive impact on the pets in your area. Step up and help a furry friend in need today!

Article by Sean Morris: A few years ago, Sean left his job as a social worker to spend more time with his kids. Today, he writes for LearnFit his spare time. He has experience in managing a career with parenting and transitioning to a family-focused lifestyle.