Pets enrich our lives with their unconditional love and devotion. They can lift our mood, reduce our stress and help us feel less isolated and lonely. They do so much for us, why wouldn’t we want to give back? Today we can celebrate pets and help those still waiting for a family to love them.
Change A Pet’s Life Day was started to encourage adoption of the millions of animals filling the nation’s shelters. The ASPCA reports that roughly 6.5 million animals enter shelters each year, with only 3.2 million getting adopted. Less than half. A heartbreaking statistic. And right now, shelters in the US are more overcrowded than they’ve been in years, with animals spending longer times waiting. Many shelters have no choice but to euthanize – there just isn’t room.
The isolation of the pandemic created a boom in pet adoptions, with nearly one in five households adopting a pet during that time, according to the ASPCA. People sought companionship, and with time on their hands and stimulus money in their pockets, it was a perfect time to take in a new family member. But as restrictions were lifted and those people returned to their offices, problems arose. People had less time to spend with their furry friends. For some animals, going from a world where everyone was always home to one where they were alone for long periods was too much, leading to anxiety and unwanted behaviors. Hence, many were returned to shelters. Sadly, the situation hasn’t gotten any brighter. As inflation makes it harder to afford pet care, the shelter populations continue to grow. More animals than ever could use the life-changing gift of a new home.
So what can you do to help?
Adopt
Obviously, the best way to help is to adopt from a shelter if you are in the position to do so. Be sure you can afford the pet and commit to it for the duration of its life, or the cycle continues.
Foster
Not sure you can have a forever pet right now? Consider fostering. Foster families are greatly needed right now. It’s a perfect way to enjoy having a pet without the cost, as most shelters will pay for the animal’s veterinary care and food. Who knows? You might meet your perfect companion, too.
Sponsor
If you don’t have the space or situation to take in a pet for yourself, consider sponsoring a shelter pet. The money you donate will be used for their care while they await adoption.
Volunteer
Shelters always need more volunteers! There are many ways to volunteer, from helping clean the shelter and socialize animals to staffing adoption events to assisting with fundraising and marketing efforts. Check with your local shelters for their needs and match them to your skills. They’ll be happy to have you!
Donate
Every little bit counts! Donate to a shelter or rescue’s fundraiser, drop off some needed supplies, or donate your time visiting the pets in the shelter to provide them socialization and comfort.
Spread Awareness – #ChangeAPetsLifeDay
The easiest way you can help is to spread awareness about the problem. Encourage people looking for a pet to visit their local rescues and shelters rather than pet stores and breeders. Share the problem on social media – people can’t help if they don’t realize there’s a problem. Encourage friends and family to share posts from rescue organizations to help needy pets find their forever homes.
Let’s see if we can all change a pet’s life today!
This cute tee can help you show your support for rescue. Check it out here.