The holidays are upon us and ‘tis the season to help those less fortunate. The Salvation Army bell ringers are on every corner reminding us to be generous and while we've probably purchased gifts for everyone in our families (including a new pet insurance policy for Rover) it's time to give a little back.
While holiday soup kitchens and secret Santas are a wonderful way to show the holiday spirit, this time of year also gives us the opportunity to remember the many animals in non-ideal living situations. Shelters across the nation chronically suffer from overcrowding due thousands of homeless animals. Donations and volunteering your time at animal related organizations are wonderful ways to make a positive impact in your community. Many animal related organizations and pet insurance companies do volunteer work for animals in need during this time of the year-- but you can lend a hand too!
Here are 5 fantastic reasons to donate your time with an animal welfare organization this Holiday Season:
1. By volunteering, you are helping to raise awareness and become part of the solution to pet overpopulation, neglect and abuse.
2. You’re guaranteed to make new friends, both fuzzy and two-legged.
3. Volunteering could lead to a new career in an animal-related field.
4. You’ll undoubtedly gain new skills as well as a personal sense of achievement.
5. You’ll probably never meet a more unconditional gratefulness than that displayed by the animals you’ll be helping.
Some volunteering ideas include: walking dogs at a local shelter, teaming up with a rescue organization to foster kittens, doing clerical work like stuffing envelopes for an organization with a good cause, helping with fundraising or organizing events benefiting local animal charities, and participating in local events aimed towards raising awareness about animal welfare-- just to name a few!
If you are short on time, but still want to help, consider donating your old towels and bedding to rescue organizations or the humane society. The shelter animals are always in need of cozy bedding. If your children no longer use their baby blankets, a puppy or kitten might find comfort nestling up in them. Rescue organizations and humane societies can always use cat and dog food, kitty litter, leashes and collars and toys as well.
The holidays are an amazing time of year to stop and think of those less fortunate than us. Animals are often forgotten, but assisting when able can have a big impact on your community. When you get into the giving spirit this year, consider including local animal welfare organizations on your list! Happy howl-idays!
For more information about pet health and pet health insurance, visit Pets Best Insurance.