How You Can Donate to Shelters Without Spending Any Money
Most animal shelters rely on the support of the community to keep their doors open and their furry guests happy and healthy. Monetary donations are absolutely crucial to support the mission of these shelters.
However, if a donation to a local animal shelter isn’t actually in your budget, or if you’re looking for more unique ways to support shelters, we have solutions!
There are so many other things you can do to support local shelters. Check out the list below for our best suggestions!
Donate Supplies
If you can’t donate money, donate some of that old stuff you have lying around at home! While you may not need that old pair of cleaning gloves or baby wipes that you don’t need anymore, consider giving them new life in a shelter. So many items that you have lying around could be useful to a shelter. Donations could include:
- dish soap/hand soap
- bleach
- laundrey detergent
- rubber/disposable gloves
- printer paper
- rubbing alcohol
- trigger spray bottles
- distilled water
- batteries
- garbage bags
- paper towels
Pet Items
If you have pet items lying around that your furry friend doesn’t necessarily enjoy, or maybe they have passed away but their items are still in good condition, see if your local shelter will take them. Things like carrier, leashes, collars, food and water dishes, or toys are often appreciated.
Registry Gifts
If you are going to find yourself registering for gifts anytime soon, whether for a shower, wedding, or birthday, consider asking guests to make a contribution to a local shelter in place of a gift.
Fullfill Wishlists
If you look, many organizations have Amazon or Chewey wishlists on their websites. If you are looking to fulfill a need of a shelter, thats where to look because they are telling you exactly what they need. You can purchase something off of the wishlist and it will ship directly to the shelter.
Volunteer
If you don’t have any money or physical items to donate, volunteer your time! Shelters are always looking for people to walk dogs, clean cages, or cuddle with the animals. Also, if you have any skills that might be of use, donate that too! Are you a skilled graphic designer or great at writing or photography? Call them up and see if they have a need for your skills!
Each shelter has its own unique needs to it’s always a good idea to call and ask what those needs are if you are looking for a way to contribute! Who knows, maybe they are in need of something you never even thought of! And, if you do start spending time in a shelter and fall in love with a furry friend, check out our tips for rescuing a dog!