6 WAYS TO HELP DOGS IN NEED

Feel-good ways to make a difference

Patty Stanton of San Francisco’s Muttville Senior Dog Rescue (muttville.org), a group specializing in giving senior dogs in shelters a second chance at a forever home, shares her top ways to make a difference for dogs in need.

#1 Adopt a senior dog! Think about the dogs that are harder to place—older dogs, deaf dogs. It's amazing how well dogs adapt to their homes, and older dogs are so grateful to have a second chance at love!

#2 Volunteer to walk/socialize/foster dogs at your local shelter. They are overflowing and need all the help you can give them.

#3 Post fun photos or short videos of dogs in need on social channels and your local Nextdoor. Be their advocate!

#4 If your neighbour leaves their dog alone in a yard, offer to walk him/her.

#5 In worse case scenarios, please let the authorities know about a dog or cat that is being neglected or abused!

#6 Donate money and needed items to your local rescue/ shelter so that they can continue their lifesaving work. Many shelters and rescue groups will gladly accept items like old towels, and cleaning supplies. For example, the wish list of San Antonio Pets Alive, a Texas-based rescue group, includes training treats, poop bags, cooked/shredded chicken breast in freezer bags, cooked/unseasoned white rice in freezer bags, disinfecting wipes, trash bags, laundry detergent, dish soap, and linens/blankets (used or new). 