InFluential_Magazine_May_June_2017

Teen
4 Tips for Helping
For pet owners,
their dogs, cats
and other pets play
an important role
in bringing added
happiness to their
lives. As not every
dog and cat is as
fortunate, you may
be looking for ways
to give back and help
pets in need.
PETS IN NEED
As many as 6-8 million pets enter
shelters every year across North
America, according to The
Humane Society of the United States.
There are numerous ways you can help
homeless pets and give back, starting
with these tips.
Volunteer at Your Local Animal
Welfare Organization
Almost every community has at least
one animal shelter or rescue group that
needs help. A simple internet search
is a good place to start, or ask your
veterinarian for recommendations on
local organizations that assist pets in
need. There are a variety of volunteer
opportunities at shelters and rescue
organizations, from office duties and
community outreach and education
to training, feeding and socializing, so
people with every skillset are often able
to lend a hand.
Donate Supplies
Items such as food, cat litter, cleaning
supplies and blankets are almost
always in demand at animal shelters
and rescues. While pets await adoption,
they need access to food, making pet
food a significant operating expense
for animal welfare organizations.
Through PetSmart’s Buy a Bag, Give a
Meal program, for every bag of dog
314 TEEN FLUENTIAL MAY / JUNE 2017