8 Ways to Help Dogs in Need This Holiday Season

With the holiday season upon us there are so many things to be grateful for. However, there are always ways to help those who are less fortunate, including our four legged friends. There are many ways to help a canine at Christmas. Here are some of my favorite ideas this year – from the familiar to unexpected.

One thing to keep in mind is the increasing number of adoption returns to animal shelters. Puppy adoptions were through the roof during the pandemic, but now the exact opposite is happening. Animal rescues are seeing a record number of dogs being returned or surrendered in Colorado.

Most of the dogs being returned are coming back because of a change in their human’s life, not anything the dog did. There is a high number of families moving out of state or to housing that won’t allow them to have pets. Read more: Find Rental Housing for You and Your Dog

There are numerous local shelters and national organizations that need your help during the holiday season and year-round. Fortunately, there are many charities to choose from, each with a unique mission and specific needs you can help fill this holiday season.

Here’s how you can help:

1. Donate goods

Most organizations are in constant need of supplies to maintain the care of the animals placed there. Here are some ideas of items most shelters need.

• Dog food
• Dog treats
• Gently used blankets
• Pet beds
• Toys
• Cleaning supplies
• Towels
• Pet wipes
• Pet shampoo

Helping pets in need can even be as simple as purchasing a new bed for your own pup! Programs like Warm Bellies Initiative by P.L.A.Y. will donate a Special Edition Chill Pad to shelter animals in need when you purchase a bed, which can be used for your own dog or donated to the shelter. It can be very scary for a pet to be surrendered to a shelter. There are all types of new sounds, smells, environment, food, etc. A pad on a hard concrete floor can make a big difference to help a dog who has gone through the trauma of being surrendered feel a little safer and comfortable.

Another way to help is to shop shelters’ online wish lists. Here’s our local Humane Society’s Amazon wish list of items they need.

2. Make a financial donation

If you don’t have a specific organization in mind, why not look for a local group you can help by providing a financial donation or gifts-in-kind? All gifts provide much needed resources and provide you with the joy of helping animals. Also, depending on the organization, your donation may be tax deductible. All Breed Rescue and Training is a local organization dedicated to rescuing dogs at risk of euthanasia.

3. Donate a gift card in somebody’s name

If there’s an animal lover on your gift list, consider giving a monetary gift to their favorite animal welfare organization. What better way to spread holiday cheer than gifting a donation in  your friend or family member’s name?

4. Donate dog food to a local food pantry

Many families struggle to put food on the table during the holidays – and this often means their family pet needs food too. When you donate non-perishable items to your local food pantry, consider giving a bag of dog food or treats. Some pantries will accept other types of pet items or monetary donations where you can specify how you want the money spent, such as asking them to buy puppy food. Not only will you be helping these pets but making a huge difference for their families.

5. Donate your time

Many shelters welcome volunteers to assist with daily chores, as well as the difficult task of giving belly rubs and scratches behind the ears. Of course, your time is appreciated, but if you decide to volunteer, you should be committed to being consistent over time.

6. Foster a dog or puppy

Another great way to help animals is to become a foster home. Many animals shelters rely on pet foster parents when space is limited or a dog needs special attention.  Organizations like Dogs on Deployment (DoD), offer a unique foster experience. DoD volunteers care for pets who belong to service men and women while they are deployed or honoring their commitments. Helping pets and our military members is a win-win!

7. Adopt a dog or puppy

Are you ready to adopt a dog or puppy? Pets make great companions and additions to your family. Just keep in mind a pet is a long-term commitment ensuring their safety, health, feeding, housing and training them.

Read more:

• 8 Things to Consider Before You Adopt a Shelter Dog
• Challenges of Adopting Two Puppies at the Same Time
• What to Expect When Adopting a Dog with Medical Issues
• What to Expect When Adopting a Dog With Behavior Problems
• 5 Reasons to Adopt a Senior Dog

If you do decide to adopt a dog, consider looking into pet insurance. Whether it’s a routine check up or your dog gets injured, vet bills can add up fast! Taking a few minutes to understand how pet insurance works will be a worthwhile investment of your time.

8. Shop for gifts from companies that give back

Another great way to help animals during the holiday season is to buy gifts from businesses that donate a portion of their proceeds to animal rescues. Here are some ideas of companies to buy from:

• Grounds and Hounds Coffee Company
• Conscious Step Sock Company
• Etsy has many sellers who give a portion of their profits to animals
• Give as You Live generates funds for any nonprofit you designate
• If you’re buying on Amazon, be sure to shop on Amazon Smile. When you shop on Amazon Smile, you can donate proceeds to any organization you choose

Final Thoughts

From large-scale animal shelters to tiny volunteer-run rescues, animal organizations all over the country are in need of help year-round. Thousands of animals are looking for a loving home. And though this might not be the best time for you to adopt a pet, there are lots of ways you can make a difference in the lives of precious animals this holiday season.

Have you ever donated to or volunteered at a local animal shelter? What was your experience? Please share in the comments below…