Introduction
Supporting local animal shelters is a fantastic way to give back to your community and help animals in need. With the changing seasons, shelters face unique challenges that require specific care solutions. Whether it's keeping animals comfortable during winter's chill or ensuring they stay hydrated in the summer, knowing how to help in each season can make a world of difference. Here’s a seasonal guide to supporting local animal shelters year-round.
Winter: Keep Animals Warm and Cozy
During winter, local shelters often need extra help keeping animals warm and comfortable. Here are some ways to lend a hand:
- Donate Blankets and Bedding: Fleece blankets and soft bedding provide much-needed warmth. Some shelters may accept gently used blankets.
- Provide Heating Supplies: Heat lamps, space heaters, or insulated bedding can make a big difference.
- Volunteer Indoors: Many shelters need extra hands for tasks like cleaning or organizing, especially during winter when outdoor activities are limited.
Pro Tip: Reach out to your local shelter to find out their specific winter needs; many shelters post lists on social media.
Spring: Help with Cleaning and Organizing
Spring brings a new set of needs as shelters prepare for increased admissions during kitten and puppy season. You can help in these ways:
- Organize a Cleaning Supplies Drive: Bleach, disinfectants, paper towels, and gloves are essentials that shelters go through quickly.
- Assist with Gardening and Yard Work: Warmer weather means shelters need help with landscaping to keep outdoor areas clean and safe.
- Foster New Arrivals: Spring is often a busy time for shelters with more animals coming in. Fostering can relieve some of the space burden.
Did You Know? Many shelters have "wish lists" online for cleaning supplies they need most during spring.
Summer: Keep Animals Cool and Hydrated
Hot summer months can be challenging, especially in shelters with outdoor spaces. Consider these ways to help:
- Donate Fans or Cooling Mats: Portable fans, cooling mats, and shaded outdoor tents can provide relief for animals.
- Organize a Water Drive: Extra water bowls and refillable dispensers are always appreciated.
- Host a Fundraiser for Medical Supplies: Many animals suffer from heat-related issues in summer and need vet care for dehydration or skin conditions.
Pro Tip: Summer months also bring more outdoor events. Organize a fundraising event or adoption fair to support local shelters.
Fall: Prepare for the Holidays and Cooler Temperatures
Fall is a time for transition, and shelters often start preparing for winter. Here's how you can contribute:
- Donate Food and Treats: Fall is a great time to give extra pet food, treats, and other essentials as shelters prepare for the holiday season.
- Help with Social Media and Awareness: Many shelters run donation campaigns in the fall. Offering social media support can boost their reach and encourage more donations.
- Join a Fall Fundraiser: Seasonal events are common in the fall. Volunteering to help with organization or promotion can be a big help.
Did You Know? Many shelters appreciate early donations to get through the busy holiday season.
Year-Round Tips to Support Local Shelters
In addition to seasonal help, there are several ways to support animal shelters year-round:
- Become a Regular Volunteer: Shelters need volunteers throughout the year for daily tasks.
- Donate Monthly: Consistent donations, even small ones, help shelters plan their budgets.
- Promote Adoptions: Sharing social media posts about adoptable animals can help them find homes faster.
Final Thoughts
In the United States, there are about 4,000 animal shelters, and more than half of them are no-kill shelters. Each year, about 6.5 million animals enter shelters, but only 3.2 million are adopted. By supporting your local animal shelter through the seasons, you’re helping to create a safer, more comfortable environment for the animals. Small contributions like donations, fostering, and volunteering can add up to make a big difference. For a list of items your shelter needs, visit their website or give them a call. Your seasonal support is essential to giving animals the best care possible all year long!
Total Pet Care: Essential Products to Support Your Furry Friends
At NeVetica, we believe in comprehensive pet care for every animal. It’s crucial to provide the necessary care for your pets both inside and out. In our previous article, we highlighted how you can support your local animal shelter by donating pet products. Below are links to some of our favorite and highly-rated products that promote pet health when used consistently. Don’t just take our word for it—check out the glowing testimonials from fellow pet parents!
Plus, any products you purchase and donate may qualify as tax-deductible expenses. Visit our website to explore additional products you can purchase and donate!
1. Eye Care: NeVetica Multivitamins
Support your dog’s overall health with NeVetica Multivitamins. This supplement promotes brain, heart, kidney, eye, and liver function, offering essential vitamins like A, B, C, D, E, and K, along with vital minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and zinc.
2. Ear Care: NeVetica Digestive Support ChewsIs your furry friend experiencing a foul or yeast-like odor in their ears? NeVetica Digestive Support Chews can help reduce gas, allergy symptoms, and yeast-related disorders, ensuring your pet stays healthy and comfortable.
3. Dental Hygiene: NeVetica Water AdditiveMaintaining your pet’s dental hygiene is easy with our NeVetica Additive. This effectively fights plaque, tartar, and bacteria that cause bad breath. NeVetica Water Additive, featuring peppermint oil, supports healthy teeth and gums and may help soothe upset stomachs.
4. Skin and Coat Care: NeVetica Skin and Coat FormulaOur NeVetica Skin and Coat Formula is specially designed to nourish and strengthen your dog’s skin and coat from within. Packed with essential vitamins, nutrients, and fatty acids, this formula promotes a shiny coat and overall wellness.
5. Bathing/Skin Care: NeVetica No-Rinse Waterless ShampooKeep your pet clean without the hassle of traditional baths! NeVetica No-Rinse Waterless Shampoo allows for quick and convenient grooming, promoting healthy, moisturized skin and coat.
6. Paw Care: NeVetica No-Rinse Waterless ShampooEnsure your pet's paws stay clean, especially during winter walks. Our NeVetica No-Rinse Waterless Shampoo effectively removes dirt, grime, and salt while nourishing the skin and coat.
7. Hip and Joint Care: NeVetica Hip & Joint ChewsHelp your dog maintain mobility and reduce joint pain with NeVetica Hip & Joint Chews. These chews contain green-lipped mussel (Perna canaliculus), a powerful source of Omega-3 fatty acids, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals that improve joint lubrication and alleviate stiffness.
8. Wet Away: NeVetica Wet Away is a convenient tool that will assist pet shelters with cleaning up any indoor liquid "oops" moments fast. Clean up the mess in 60 seconds or less!
By choosing these products and supporting local shelters, you’re making a positive impact on the lives of pets in need. Visit our website to shop for these products and learn more about our mission!