In troubling economic times many pet owners have faced the difficult decision of surrendering their pet to the local animal shelter. More and more pets are not being fixed causing an increase of pups and kittens being dropped at off shelters. Donations are down, adoptions have dropped, and all of these have left many animal shelters desperate for help.

Concerned animal lovers can help, even if they have not got the financial resources to make cash donations.

1. Volunteer

Shelters need help caring for the pets. Different shelters have different volunteer spots that may need filling, some shelters are completely run by volunteer efforts, relying on them for everything from kennel cleaning to walking. Other shelters have staff that cover the cleaning duties, but they still need volunteers to help walk the dogs, play with the cats, and other animals, and wash the laundry. Even further than that volunteers are critical as board members or for helping with fund raisers. Volunteering costs nothing but a few hours of your time.

2. Donate Unwanted Items

Many shelters can use old towels and blankets for bedding for the pets in their care. These should be washed first, and free of holes which could trap an animals head. Even dish cloths are handy. Old pet supplies, as long as they are in good shape, can be used by the shelter as well, however you should call ahead first when donating such items, as some shelters cannot use certain items such as plastic food bowls (they are not as sanitary as stainless steel). Even childrens' old stuff toys may be accepted for dog toys. If you have recently switched your pets food, or lost a pet, you may donate any left over food to the shelter as well. Remember animal shelters need office and cleaning supplies too.

3. Have a Garage Sale

Some shelters hold their own garage sales, and you can certainly donate items to this cause, or hold your own and donate a portion of your money to the shelter.

4. Write

Although it might surprise many pet lovers, not everyone is aware of what animal shelters do. You can write letters to the editor of your local newspaper praising the shelter for their good work or suggesting people make donations. If you do write such a letter do not quote any shelter policies, fees, or rules. You can also request your newspaper, or local television station ,to run regular Adopt a Pet features. These highlight pets for adoption.

5. Foster Care

Not all shelters allow people to foster care for their pets, but some do so this is an option worth considering. Typically the pets who need foster care are troubled ones who need more work before going for adoption so must be placed in an experienced pet persons home. Other times orphaned kittens and pups who are not old enough for adoption require foster homes. Any one considering foster care should be certain their own pets are fully vaccinated and will accept new comers into their home.

6. Call the Shelter

When in doubt you can always call the shelter and ask what they need most, there may be some ideas not included here.

7. Care for your own Pet

Ultimately taking the best care of the pet you have is a huge way you can help your local shelter. Not allowing a pet who is not spayed or neutered to roam and get pregnant is key to keeping pet overpopulation down. Having your pet wear identification is the ideal way of keeping it out of the shelter. Educating others to look at the shelter first for a lost pet, and to ensure all pets are spayed or neutered will help the shelter immensely.

8. Talk About it

Spreading word of mouth ways that you are helping will also encourage others to do the same.

Learn more about this author, Brenda Nelson.
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