National Animal Shelter and Rescue Appreciation Week

Every first week of November, hundreds of people gather around the celebrate National Animal Shelter and Rescue Appreciation Week, as a way to appreciate the people who once cared for your loved pets. According to the National Day Calendar, there are over 70 million strays in the United States alone, and around eight million ends up in shelters. There are over 3943 animal shelters in this country. Without shelters, many future pets wouldn’t have an opportunity to find their forever homes. 

What many people do not realize, however, is the fact that many animal shelters are in fact, nonprofit organizations. This means they do not rely on private investment; all funds come purely from donations and grants. This also means that many people who choose to work in animal shelters do so for the animals, not for the money. We must respect the hard work that shelters put into protecting our animals, which is why it’s important that you take action during this week. 

What are some ways that you can help out? We have some tips listed below on how you can show your gratitude.

Visit your local animal shelter! Take some time during your day to visit the staff, and if you have the time, bring them some gifts too. The staff does a lot to help out these precious pooches, so it wouldn’t be harmful to reward them for all their hard work!

Volunteers at an animal shelter! The more helping hands animal shelters have, the better it is. They are always looking for volunteers, so if you have some free time, don’t waste it on binging Netflix and be helpful! Remember to follow COVID protocols as you do, however. 

Adopt a pet! If you’re looking for a new companion, consider getting one from your local animal shelter instead of a pet store. Many of these animals are often well trained by the shelter itself, and ready to find their new forever home.

Donate! If you’re short of time, then the best way you can contribute to animal shelters is through donations. Even a dollar would make a difference to any shelter, as it may be the difference between a meal or a blanket for a pooch versus not having one. You can also donate supplies, and ask around family and friends to do the same. 

So if you have the time this week, make sure to give back to the animal shelter community and remind them of how awesome they are! And while you’re at it, make sure that your pet is all up to date on its vaccinations and surgeries - if not, many shelters ofter various treatments to help them out, and it can often be more reliable to get your pet spayed or neutered at a shelter than outside of one. And while you’re at it, don’t forget to get a new treat or collar for your own pet! We hope you have a great November!