This is a subject matter that is near and dear to my heart along with my entire family.  There are so many animals out there that do not know the warmth of a home…the touch of a loving human…good food…playtime…a cushy bed…and love.  My wish is that they all know those things in their lifetime because they deserve it.  So many people say “what can I do”…well there are tons of things to do.  No matter how little or big…it all counts.  You may not be able to save the world…but you can make a difference in the life of an animal very easily.  The Humane Society Shares their suggestions below and I would like to add a few. along with them

You can run blanket drives in your neighborhood.  When my kids where in Grammar School we had a Pet Food Collection twice a year and a blanket drive in October.  It was so successful and every dog got their own blanket.  We have been making weekly trips to the Shelter with food, toys and all Summer long I have been making big batches of Frozen Treats for all the pups…what a hit!  Any little thing will make a difference so let your imagination soar!  Oh they LOVE Adopt Me Bandana’s …so for those of you that sew…it’s perfect! Purchasing items for gifts that give a portion back to animals is always a great thing too.   Of course donations are always welcomed no matter how large or small…every bit helps.  Now check out The Humane Society Suggestions…they are all fabulous and they all mean the world to our furry friends.  Be their HERO!!!

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.D

Ten Ways to Help Your Local Shelter or Rescue by:

The Humane Society

Here’s a great suggestion…donating to the Humane Society is Pawfect : )

Give a hand to the groups that do so much for animals, people, and your community

Shelters and rescues are amazing! They help untold numbers of animals and people, usually with limited resources and very little publicity. Do you want to give back to the these unsung heroes and organizations who contribute so much to your community? Try one—or all—of the following ten ways to help shelters and rescue groups. Don’t be surprised if you end up feeling good and having fun.

1. Share your love

Tell the world how you feel about your local shelter or rescue by using The Humane Society of the United States’ Facebook share graphics.

Just click on your favorite to add the image to your Facebook page. (If you think they’re both too cute to choose a favorite, swap them out every day.)

2. Get to know your local shelters and rescue groups

Start the process by locating all of the ones in your area. You may be surprised how many groups nearby are helping animals.

3. Learn before you leap

Before you adopt, go to the Shelter Pet Project to learn what to expect when adopting a pet. You’ll be much less likely to become frustrated and return your new pet if you understand the challenges and rewards of adopting a pet beforehand.

4. Say “thanks!”

Take a minute to express your gratitude to the people who work at your local shelter or rescue groups. If you’ve adopted a pet from one of them, show how well your pet is doing by sharing an updated picture via a letter, email, or posting it on the organization’s Facebook page or website.

5. Get crafty

Combine fabric, yarn, recyclables, and imagination to bring much-needed fun into the lives of local shelter and rescue pets. There’s no end to the toys you can make. Try braiding strips of fleece into fun for dogs, or cutting and folding a surprising household object into a cat distractor.

Are you a born match-maker? Create attention-grabbing “Adopt-Me” vests to spotlight available pets at adoption events held by shelters and rescues. We’ve found DIY options for those of us who avoid sewing as well as sewing-machine wizards.

6. Become a fan

“Like” the Shelter Pet Project on Facebook. Then, if possible, “like” the individual groups in your community, too.

7. Make wishes come true

Shelters and rescue groups always need towels, toys, and other supplies. Check their websites for wish lists or call them to find out what’s in short supply.

8. Volunteer

Even if you can’t adopt a pet just now, you can help make life better for homeless animals by volunteering with your local shelter or rescue organization. Do you have experience as a carpenter or electrician? Are you a marketing or dog-walking whiz? All of these skills are valuable!

9. Help at your own home

Make the jobs of shelters and rescues easier: Outfit your cats and dogs with collars and proper ID (a microchip and ID tags) at all times. As soon as you bring them into your family, have all of your pets spayed or neutered. Keep your cats indoors, where you can keep them safe (though it’s great to take them on walks if they are comfortable on a harness and leash), and keep dogs on leashes when off your property.

10. Help your shelter make positive changes

If you see or hear anything at your local shelter that concerns you, follow The HSUS’s guidelines for addressing that concern in the most effective way.

Something else you ALL can do is OPT TO ADOPT!!!  It means the world to that doggy. Here are my girls Alie & Georgia 2 little Shelter Doggies Living the Life!  Please Share!

Sending (((((HUGS))))) to one and all!