Do you want to help cats but don’t know where to start? Whether you’re interested in volunteering with a local rescue, concerned about a community cat, want to help a neighborhood stray find a home, or adopt a cat, you’ve come to the right place. House of Petz outlines some of the best ways that everyday people like you can help homeless pets.
Easy ways anyone can help homeless cats
You don’t need a lot of time to make a big difference for cats in need. Here are four simple ways anyone can help abandoned and neglected pets in their community.
- Donate to an animal rescue.
- Sponsoring a cat, contributing to a cat’s veterinary costs, and supporting local nonprofits through AmazonSmile are more easy, yet impactful ways to support animal shelters.
- Don’t have money to spare? No problem! Canine Journal notes that you can make a difference simply by encouraging people you know to adopt, not shop for their next pet.
- Rescue organizations also rely on good Samaritans like you to report stray pets. File a found report at your nearest shelter or alert Animal Control if you can’t safely apprehend a stray. Sharing found animal posts on craigslist, PawBoost, Nextdoor, and local Facebook groups also helps owners find missing pets.
Volunteer to help homeless cats
Are you eager to get involved in animal rescue? Whether you’ve never owned a cat before or are a card-carrying cat lady, there’s an opportunity for you.
- Volunteer at a local animal shelter. Most animal shelters require volunteers to be at least 16 years old, but some allow younger volunteers with a parent or guardian.
- You can also volunteer by fostering. Fostering cats and kittens is a rewarding experience, but be sure to kitten-proof first!
- Not every cat is cut out for an indoor home. However, feral cats still need our help.
- Best Friends explains that organizing a fundraiser or pet food drive is another impactful way to help. Organizations like ours rely on donations to save animals and every cent counts!
How to start a career in animal rescue
Some dedicated volunteers transition to starting their own career in animal welfare.
- Animal rescue includes both hands-on and behind-the-scenes opportunities. Consider a career as an animal care specialist or nonprofit administrator or use your existing skills in graphic design, marketing, or another field to get hired at an animal welfare organization.
- You can even start an animal-focused business. Starting a business requires choosing a business name and registering your LLC in your state, applying for licenses and permits, and getting a federal tax ID.
- Want to start a nonprofit? After filing Articles of Incorporation, nonprofit organizations must submit Form 1023 to the IRS to apply for 501(c)(3) status.
Your help could mean the difference between suffering on the streets and a long, healthy life for a cat in need. So what are you waiting for? If you want to help homeless cats, use these resources to take action today.