5 Ways to Contribute to Dog Rescue Efforts

Many people want to help homeless animals. However, they don't know where to start. You may have a busy schedule or worry about financial burdens. Rescue organizations need various types of help. Community members can contribute with time, gifts, and/or money. Many volunteers have time in their schedule to help run adoption events or transports, for example. Patrons with less time may choose to donate money or supplies. If you have an interest in saving dogs, talk to your local rescue organization to find out more about their specific needs.  

Fostering

Rescue organizations can keep dogs out of shelters with the help of foster caretakers. Foster care for dogs involves bringing a dog home to live with you until an adoption happens. Many dogs need medical care before they can get adopted. Fosters work hard to keep their dogs safe, socialize them, and care for medical needs. You may have concerns about expenses for fostering. Rescue organizations provide everything the dog needs while in the care of a foster. This includes food, toys, and vet care. 

Many fosters like to choose a specific age or breed of dog to care for. Some fosters learn skills such as bottle-feeding and tube feeding to help with newborn, orphaned puppies. Other fosters commit to taking senior or ill dogs for hospice care. If you spend a lot of time at home, you may do well with animals that need extra time and attention. Fill out a foster application with your local foster group to get started with pet care. 

Events

Most rescue groups, and even some shelters, hold adoption events on the weekends. During these events, volunteers meet with potential adopters to find appropriate homes for the dogs. These events require a lot of manpower. If you choose to volunteer for an adoption event, you may help set up dog kennels, walk dogs, or help with applications. Volunteers may also help with promotional events for the rescue organization.

Transportation

Many people do not know about the intricate details involved in transporting homeless dogs. In some geographical areas, the stray dog population exceeds the number of families willing to adopt. Dogs get euthanized daily in shelters waiting for an adopter or foster family. Transporting dogs to different states can save their lives.

Local transportation necessities include driving foster dogs to and from veterinary appointments and adoption events. You may also need to drop supplies off at different locations or pick up donated items at private homes. Most foster and rescue administration workers also have regular full-time jobs, making it necessary to get help with driving responsibilities. You can help with transportation even if you only have a few hours a week to volunteer. 

Monetary Donations

Rescue organizations need monetary donations and gifts of supplies. Many dogs entering rescue need extensive vet care. Rescues often take in dogs that suffer sudden injuries or long-term illnesses. You can often check social media sites or websites to find specific monetary needs for your favorite organization. Many groups set up a payment option for donations to go directly to the veterinary clinic. Monetary donations may get used for medical care, supplies, or transportation expenses. 

Supplies

If you would like to donate supplies, call the rescue group or look on their website for a list of items. The group may also set up an Amazon wish list to help you choose the right items. Common supplies include dog food, puppy formula, and potty training pads. Foster dogs also need beds, toys, and treats. You don't have to spend money to give supplies. While cleaning out your closets, save old towels and blankets to share with dog rescue organizations and shelters. 

You can help save lives in a variety of ways. Many people do not understand how easily you can make a difference in the life of a homeless dog. Even if you have minimal time or a tight budget, you can help out. Small monetary donations add up when hundreds of people donate. Items you have sitting in the closet may also help. You can also spend one day a month driving around town dropping off supplies or taking a dog to the vet. Take the time to speak with a local rescue organization to find out how you can help today.