How to Support Animal Rescue Groups

Make a monetary donation when possible or purchase items where a portion of the sale goes to an animal rescue group. Organizations use these funds for medical care, food, shelter and training. The ASPCA (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals), the United States Humane Society, PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) and many others offer apparel, pet items and even personal checks to help raise money for their mission.

Volunteer at an area shelter or with a local rescue group. They need help cleaning cages, walking dogs and feeding animals, assisting at adoption events and with general clerical work and fundraising. Even an hour or two of your time each week makes a huge difference to these groups.

Donate items to a local rescue organization. They're in need of bedding for the animals (blankets and pillows), food, gently used collars and leashes, portable cages, dishes, as well as office supplies such as paper, envelopes, stamps and markers. Join their mailing or email list. Most groups sent out monthly newsletters detailing their specific needs.

Spay or neuter stray animals you find in your neighborhood. Animal rescue groups are severely overcrowded, and strays (particularly cats) breed very quickly when left unaltered. They usually end up in shelters and are often put down for lack of space. Many veterinarians and city animal control offices offer discount services for strays.

Adopt a homeless animal. A huge variety of dogs, cats and small domestic pets like rabbits and guinea pigs are available for adoption. Choose adoption over purchasing from a breeder. This frees up space for animal rescue groups to save other homeless animals. You can even find many pure-breed choices in a shelter. Visit Petfinder.com to locate a needy animal in your area (see Resources below).