At P.L.A.Y., we're passionate about pets and providing them with eco-friendly lifestyle products. And it all starts with providing safe homes for animals in need of a helping hand. To rescue, nurture and rehome every pet in need, we can all help! Whether you're a good Samaritan, a small business owner, or an animal lover who wants to make a difference, these resources will help you get started.
Animal Rescue Organizations
Donating and volunteering is an easy way that anyone can help animals. Every state and most counties across the U.S. have rescue organizations; it’s just a matter of finding one near you. Check out these directories when searching for a place to give:
- Second Chance Pet’s National Shelter and Rescue Directory
- GuideStar’s directory of animal protection, welfare and services
- Dog Lover’s Digest’s state list of shelters and rescue organizations
How Local Businesses Can Help Homeless Pets
Small business owners have an even bigger opportunity to help pets in need. Here a few ideas:
- Raise money for an animal rescue. Small businesses can donate a percentage of sales to charity, run an online campaign, or host a fun animal-themed event.
- Host an adoption event at your small business. Petfinder has great tips on organizing a pet adoption event.
- Start a charitable foundation. Launching a foundation with 501(c)(3) status lets businesses expand their fundraising efforts via tax-deductible giving.
- Are you still an aspiring entrepreneur? Set your sights on a business in pet care, services, or products. Starting a business is easier than you think thanks to being able to structure your business as a limited liability company (LLC), and you don’t have to pay an inexorable amount for an attorney to arrange -- online formation services like Zenbusiness make the process a snap. An LLC is a smart way to give your business security, as your personal assets will be protected, a lot of flexibility is given in how you run your business, and your company will be officially identified with the state you operate in.
What To Do if You Find a Stray or Abandoned Pet
You don't need a lot of resources at your disposal to make a big impact. Anyone who takes action when they see a pet in need is a hero in our book.
- If you find a lost pet, check for an ID tag or visit a local veterinary office to have the animal scanned for a microchip.
- Can't find the owner? Notify your local animal shelter, post flyers in your neighborhood, and use social media platforms like Facebook, Nextdoor, and PawBoost to spread the word.
- Feral cats require a special touch. The most important rule to follow is: If you feed them, fix them.
- Don't advertise adoptable animals as free on Craigslist or other social media sites. A small rehoming fee and a careful screening process ensure pets go to a good home.
Animal rescue is hard work, but it's also incredibly rewarding! Bringing a pet into a household is always a big decision and a lot of responsibility. But with a lot of research and careful planning (not always possible), it’s truly a wonderful and irreplaceable experience.
Whether you want to get involved in a big way or do your small part to help homeless animals, there's an opportunity to make a difference. Use these resources and start making your community a more humane place to live.
