Everyone is trying to stay afloat amidst the pandemic. Many businesses will be forced to close due to pandemic with no hope of ever reopening. While the pandemic is hitting humans hard, it is also impacting our pets’ lives and the furry ones that still find themselves in shelters. A California shelter ran out of adoptable pets during the start of the outbreak, since many would have time to dedicate to a new pet. So what can you do for the furry friends to help out during COVID-19? Keep reading to find out more.
Donating
Many shelters are still full during the pandemic. Tremendous help for many of them would be to donate food, toys, and beds, or even if you have the extra cash, monetary donations would be gratefully received.
Fostering
If you have the space in your home, fostering may be an excellent option for you now since you may have some extra time on your hands. Fostering would help get the pet out of the shelter and make room for a potentially other pet in need. Many shelters are also offering virtual training to help you learn how to become a pet foster. You may also find your fur-ever friend in the process.
Volunteering
Many shelters are closed right now to the public; many are still looking for volunteers to help take care of the shelters. If you are healthy and looking for something to keep you busy, this is a great option.
Shelter News Letters
Many shelters have newsletters to let the community know what’s going on if they have found pets or have unique pets in need of homes or fosters. These newsletters are also great for communicating the needs of the shelter. If they need different supplies, these can often be found in the newsletters, along with where you can donate to help out.
Social Media
Like newsletters, following your local shelters on social media can help them get recognized in the community. It can also provide information for pets that are looking to be adopted if you or someone you know are looking for a specific pet to fit your lifestyle.
If you have the extra time on your hands, get involved; however, you can with a shelter. Being stuck at home, this is the perfect time to help out and even possibly foster a furry friend. Statistics have shown that interacting with animals releases a hormone called cortisol that helps to lower blood pressure. Pets can also help reduce loneliness and increase your feelings of social support and help to boost your mood, all great things when you are stuck in quarantine.