Delicious roasted chicken paired with tender vegetables in a succulent stew
Delicious roasted chicken paired with tender vegetables in a succulent stew
Over 70% of dogs lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition
Over 70% of cats lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition
Precisely balanced nutrition with the delicious taste of minced liver & chicken to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Over 70% of cats lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition
Learn the scientific reasons why we have such strong connections with our pets, and what science says about the love between humans and our furry friends.
Learn more about littermate syndrome in dogs and cats and how to successfully navigate adoption and early socialization processes.
An Orange cat eating from a bowl filled with mixed food
Maybe you heard about it on the radio on your way into work, or maybe you read about it on Twitter. No matter how you found out, the news of animals impacted by natural disasters shocked your system. Your think of the many people evacuating their homes, and the thousands of beloved pets who, for any number of reasons, are separated from their families. You know there's an incredible need for animal rescue after natural disasters, and you want to help — but where do you start?
The good news is that you're not alone. Animal welfare organizations all across the country have pitched in to care for animals in the aftermatch of natural disasters. They have provided many opportunities for you to support disaster relief efforts for these pets in their time of need. By volunteering your time, space or any resources you can spare, you can play a major role in saving an animal's life.
If you've heard about a crisis in a neighboring state, you may be ready to spring into action. But when it comes to animal rescue after natural disasters, consider your own safety first and foremost. Affected areas can remain dangerous long after major weather events have subsided. First try contacting local or national animal welfare organizations devoted to caring for animals in natural disasters.
If you're not sure where to start, try calling local veterinarians. Many animal specialists are connected to, or at least familiar with, volunteer organizations that may be preparing to provide on-the-ground support. An online search for "local animal welfare organizations" may offer guidance as well. Once you have a contact, they can walk you through next steps and equip you for the tough, rewarding work ahead.
Another important way you can donate your time is community organizing. Many organizations need food, water, first aid kits, treats, toys and money to care for displaced animals. Try gathering friends or neighbors to run a resource drive to support your cause. Local pet stores may be able to help spread the word about your efforts and perhaps even donate additional supplies. Local organizations can work with you to deliver your donations to the places that need them most.
If you're interested in doing this type of volunteering, the best time to start getting connected to an organization is before disaster strikes. Doing so can help give you enough time to get trained or placed on a certain team before you need to deploy to a disaster zone. This also benefits rescue organizations, because while volunteers are vital to their success, their focus will be on helping pets when the time comes — not trying to equipd you with the skills you need to be a resource.
Young pets may need several visits in their first year for vaccinations. Adult pets generally benefit from annual check-ups, while senior or special-needs pets might require more frequent visits.
In the wake of weather crises, many displaced pets simply need to be safely relocated and cared for until they find their forever homes.
If you have space in your home and the time to devote to pet care, consider becoming a foster parent. Reach out to local animal welfare organizations and shelters to let them know that your home is safe and dry, and that you're committed to sharing it with animals in natural disasters. Even if you're not aware of an urgent situation, you can offer your help now for any future need that arises.
It might not be feasible for you to join a volunteer organization or foster a pet. But that doesn't mean you can't make a difference. Consider asking an animal welfare organization what supplies they need. Then create a shopping list and pick up those items to contribute. Or consider donating money to support the organizations involved with pet rescue year round.
When natural disasters strike, there is no shortage of need for warm hearts and strong hands. By assisting experts and organizations however you can, you'll be touching and saving more lives than you might ever know.
Erin Ollila believes in the power of words and how a message can inform—and even transform—its intended audience. Her writing can be found all over the internet and in print, and includes interviews, ghostwriting, blog posts, and creative nonfiction. Erin is a geek for SEO and all things social media. She graduated from Fairfield University with an M.F.A. in Creative Writing. Reach out to her on Twitter @ReinventingErin or learn more about her at http://erinollila.com.
Over 70% of cats lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition
Delicious roasted chicken paired with tender vegetables in a succulent stew
Delicious roasted chicken paired with tender vegetables in a succulent stew
Over 70% of cats lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition
Learn the scientific reasons why we have such strong connections with our pets, and what science says about the love between humans and our furry friends.
An Orange cat eating from a bowl filled with mixed food
Understanding how to train puppies and kittens starts with understanding their differences. Discover tips for training success for puppies vs. kittens.
Learn more about littermate syndrome in dogs and cats and how to successfully navigate adoption and early socialization processes.
Our low calorie formula helps you control your pet's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Our low calorie formula helps you control your pet's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.