How To Help Homeless Animals When Adoption Isn’t An Option
Our pets are blessed with a loving home and a blissful life, thanks to their caring and responsible owners, of course. Unfortunately, there are many animals left in rescue shelters that are deprived of this privilege: many are abandoned, and some were once strays.
While the animal welfare volunteers do a good job at caring for the rescues’ needs, scarcity of manpower and resources, coupled with slow adoption rates, means that their time and money are being stretched to the limit. As pet owners, many of us may not have the means to take another furry companion under our wing, but there are many other ways we can help.
1. Sponsor
Sponsoring a cat or dog is a recommended option if you have enough finances to support a pet but lack the time. Some rescue centres, such as Save Our Street Dogs, allow you to visit your sponsored pet regularly and even let you take it out for walks.
Some other organisations that have sponsorship programmes are Action for Singapore Dogs and Causes for Animals. Sponsorship amounts vary from shelter to shelter, and dog to dog, so make sure you do some research before committing to becoming a sponsor.
2. Donate
If you don’t think you can afford to commit to continue supporting one animal, there are many shelters out there accepting monetary and material donations. Some organisations that could use your help are Cat Welfare Society, Animal Lovers League, and Oasis Second Chance Animal Shelter.
3. Volunteer
If you have the time but lack the financial means, volunteering is one fulfilling way of lending a helping hand. Volunteering can range from up-keeping to vet visits. There are many shelters seeking volunteers in various capacities, so you can even help out in areas such as writing or photography. It doesn’t take much effort on your part, but it will make a world of difference for the animals.
4. Foster
Many shelters take in animals that require urgent care. Animals with special needs do not do well in kennel facilities, and if they aren’t ready for adoption, fostering would be the go-to option while they recuperate.
These animals need the love and attention of a home, and many benefit greatly from the companionship of a fellow canine. If you are able to temporarily open your home to an animal in need, approach any rescue shelter to find a pet suitable for your home and lifestyle.
5. Spread Awareness
If none of the above suggestions are suitable, the best way you can help is by spreading awareness. Educational messages to discourage pet abandonment and encourage adoption can have a great impact. Sharing urgent adoption requests on Facebook or Instagram might just be the action needed for a homeless animal to find a fur-ever home. Never underestimate the power of social media!