My adopted dogs, Lucky (top) & Kobe.
Thanks to my local animal shelter, my family and I have had two dogs in our lives that have made our family more complete. As we celebrate National Adopt a Dog Month, I think of all the people it takes for animal shelters to successfully connect homeless pets with families like mine.
I’d like to share a few stories of how my co-workers have helped homeless animals. I admire their work and hope it inspires readers like you to help animals in need.
Jeff: While helping care for stray and homeless animals, I was able to assist in providing food, healthcare, and a clean environment for them. It was very rewarding and I felt great knowing they would be healthy when adoption time came.
Sarah: I serve as treasurer, PR liaison, and general help for Pet Haven Sanctuary, a Rhinelander-based non-profit organization dedicated to rescuing, fostering, spaying, neutering, and ultimately finding forever homes for companion animals. We’re only 3 years old and raising funds to someday purchase land and build a no-kill shelter that will serve the entire Northwoods region (which currently has no such facility). I publicize and help with brat sales, dog grooming events, bake sales, food drives, holiday gift-wrapping, and other activities that help us raise much-needed funds. It’s a lot of fun to meet new people and animals – all while working towards a wonderful goal.
Jackie R: This past year, I mentored a local Girl Scout working to earn her Gold Award. Her chosen project was to make an informational booklet and do a fundraiser for the local animal shelter. In just a few short months, she organized a successful bake/hot dog sale, which raised several hundred dollars for the shelter. She planned children’s activities, provided great information, and got people to the shelter creating awareness. It was amazing to see what a bit of effort by just one person can do. If we can all do the same, imagine how many animals, shelters, and rescues we can help.
Are you thinking about adopting a dog? Having a pet is a big commitment. The animal will be spending years of his life with you. So, before you go to a shelter, it is important to ask yourself these important questions.
Leave a comment to share your story of helping an animal in need – you might just inspire another reader to make the effort to help in their own community. Remember, YOU can make a difference with one small kindness gesture. Happy National Adopt a Dog Month!
[CLOSED] Remember! To help your favorite animal shelter or rescue organization win up to $200 in pet supplies, be sure to read PAWticipate! Nominate an Animal Shelter or Rescue. DEADLINE: 10/10/10.
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I once found a lost dog. He had collar but no ID tags. He was very friendly and looked well cared for, so I figured he had a family that was looking for him. I kept him for 2 days while I worked at finding his family. Their reunion was sweet.
I volunteered at a shelter several years ago. Now that I look back at my time there, I realize what a great experience it really was. Those animals were so appreciative and full of love. My schedule prevents me from helping now, but I will definitely volunteer again in the future.