Animal charities are often forgotten amongst human charity appeals during the holidays.  Here we have a round-up of how you can help needy animals of all sorts.

You can do your holiday shopping through local and online animal charities to help them raise money and create awareness.  Check out our list of 45 Animal Charities with Gift Shopping for ideas.

It’s an especially good time to donate cash or a care package to animal shelters.  Keep in mind that animal shelters may take in pets of all kinds, including hamsters, birds, reptiles, rabbits and ferrets, so supplies for all species are often appreciated.  Some items, such as dog food, may be provided on an ongoing basis by sponsors.  We suggest contacting your local shelter to find out what they require.

Following is a list of items that animal shelters frequently need:

Crates & cages
Cat & dog beds
Old towels, blankets or throw rugs
Disposable bedding for all species, including straw, timothy & rodent/reptile bedding
Heating pads
Healthy food & treats for all species of pets
Kitten milk replacement
Stainless steel bowls
Grooming supplies
Leashes, harnesses & collars
Cat litter
Syringes, gauze & other medical supplies
Cotton balls & swabs
Toys that are easily sterilized
Dog sweaters
Garbage bags & grocery bags
Buckets & pails
Brooms & mops
Bleach
Disinfectant wipes
Laundry detergent
Hand sanitizer
Latex gloves
Spray bottles
Printer paper, envelopes, stamps & other office supplies
Gift cards to department stores, pet stores & gas stations

Hand-crafted donations are usually welcome at shelters and they make great scrap projects.  We have a nice collection of Free Knit, Crochet and Sewing Patterns for Animal Shelters to get you started.

Fostering a shelter animal for the holiday season or adopting a new pet is a great idea, IF you have time to devote to them over the often hectic holidays.  Adoption should only be considered after careful thought, consideration and research.  Never adopt or purchase an animal as a surprise gift unless it’s for your own family, and you are willing to be personally responsible for it. Search for adoptable animals in your area!

Your time is a gift that is coveted by animal charities.  Please help them out with general volunteer activities or donate your special skills, such as carpentry or graphics design.

Last but certainly not least, we can create awareness with blog posts and through social media.

We wish you & the animals a safe, peaceful & magical holiday season!

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✔ You may also be interested in reading Corporate Giving – Iams Home for the Holidays and Holiday Pet Safety Tips.