October is Adopt-A-Shelter-Dog Month, but you can do more

You don't have to adopt a pet to help out the homeless animals.

By Jacque Estes
| 11:12 a.m. October 16, 2015

The animals don't know why they are homeless. There are many things that you can do to help them. Courtesy photo

Phyllis Jenkins shared this photo of Gus, 7-years-old, and Stubby Baby, 1-year-old enjoying their prime sleeping spots on the bed. Courtesy photo

Palm Coast Observer
Opinion

There are as many ways to help your shelter as there are pets waiting for homes. The top two in my opinion are, spay and neuter your pets. If your pet is not spayed or neutered make an appointment this month. There are many low-cost options and not only will you be keeping additional unwanted pets out of shelters, you will be giving your animal a healthier life.

Afraid if you go to the shelter you will be too tempted? Then log onto your Facebook and Twitter accounts and share this link (click on icons), as well as adding a link on your page to your local shelter website, and petfinder.com.

Volunteer
Flagler and Halifax humane societies are always looking for volunteers and you might be surprised at the jobs they have waiting for you. Dog washers, dog walkers, cat attendants, special event helpers, office work, and receptionists. The list goes on.

Donate
Shelters have thrift stores where you can donate most household items in good condition. Shelters also appreciate donations of cat and dog food, toys your dog ignores, pet beds, and leashes. Any pet related item. Most of us have bought food for our cat or dog that they didn't like. Tape it up and take it to your shelter. They always have so many mouths to feed.

Foster parent
Become a foster parent and take care of an animal that might need a little extra attention and love before it can be adopted.

Make a donation
Money is always a welcome donation. It doesn't have to be a lot, all donations are apprecated.

Teach your children
My daughter was in the Miss Seabreeze contest years ago. To fill time in between contestants the girls stepped up to the microphone and generally thanked the people in their lives for all they had done for them. My daughter said five words, “Spay and neuter your pets.” I was so proud. They do listen!