It’s that giving time of year when we focus on gifts for not only family and friends, but also the homeless animals who so desperately need our help. I’m hesitant to name just a handful of deserving pet charities because so many are equally in need of support, but let’s face it, we all have our favorites. Here’s my list, mostly smaller, less known organizations that are doing wonderful things for animals.
Grey Muzzle Organization It’s no secret that I’m a fan of older pets, so when I saw that Grey Muzzle needed an editor, I threw my hat in the ring. I’ve greatly enjoyed working with this group. Their mission is to fund other agencies all over the country who support senior adoptions. Read more about them at http://greymuzzle.org/
Old Dog Haven Another nonprofit working for old dogs needing new homes, this is a network of people providing foster and hospice care until dogs can be placed. The feature that really touches my heart is their Final Refuge program, where dogs too fragile or sick to be rehomed are placed with a loving foster family to spend their last years or months happy and safe, where they can die at peace knowing they are loved. See more about them at http://olddoghaven.org.
Purrfect Pals Cat Sanctuary Their mission statement says it all: Founded on the belief that every cat matters, Purrfect Pals provides a no-kill sanctuary, foster and hospice care for homeless cats. They are active in humane education, spay neuter programs, and placing adoptable cats in new homes. Learn more about this many-faceted organization at http://purrfectpals.org.
Rebecca’s Rainbow Here’s a new charity that fills a much-needed niche. They help owners who are critically or terminally ill keep their pets with them as long as possible, and find homes for the pets when they are left behind. This is a wonderful service. Learn more about it at http://rebeccasrainbow.org.
Rolling Dog Ranch Sanctuary And one more organization I love, this one takes in special needs animals that would otherwise be euthanized. I donate every year and look forward to receiving their heartwarming quarterly newsletter and their blog showing the joyful lives of the blind, deaf, limping, wobbling creatures who have no idea they are “disabled.” The Ranch also adopts out some of the animals to good-hearted human angels who are willing to take in a handicapped pet. Read all about this wonderful place at http://rollingdogranch.org.
So that’s my short-list. If this is a lean year for you as it is for many of us, know that it’s probably also lean for the animals who need us. If a financial contribution isn’t possible, consider volunteering your time or giving supplies you already have on hand.
Please post a comment with your own favorite pet charities.
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