Not everyone is lucky enough to have a home for the Holidays.  However, even the smallest act of kindness can help brighten the day of an animal in a shelter waiting for a forever home.  Animal shelters and rescue organizations depend heavily on donations to meet the daily needs of the dogs, cats and other animals in their care.  Many of the items on their wish list can easily be picked up and delivered while out doing your normal errands.  Your local pet store may even have a drop box right there to make donations.  Or you can order online and have it shipped directly to the shelter of your choice.  In fact many local animal shelters have wish lists on Smile.Amazon.com and Chewy.com.

The following list are suggestions of a few items shelters would be grateful to have donated.  For more information, please contact directly your local animal shelter or rescue organization to find out their specific needs:

• ​Dog and Puppy Food, both dry and canned
• Cat and Kitten Food, both dry and canned
• Non-clumping Cat Litter and Litter Boxes
• Blankets and Towels to provide comfort and to dry off after a snowy walk
• Dog Toys: small, medium and large to entertain energetic dogs, curious puppies, and nervous chewers
• Cat Toys and Scratching Posts to help pass the time and reduce anxiety while waiting for a home
• Cleaning Supplies, including latex free gloves, contractor trash bags, bleach, paper towels, laundry detergent
• Leashes, Collars and Harnesses for daily walks and to help everyone look their best when out in public at adoption events
• Training Treats for those who could use a little extra motivation with their basic obedience lessons
• Gift Cards to Amazon, pet supply stores, grocery stores, etc. to purchase specific items for animals with special dietary needs and to buy fresh veggies for the rabbits, guinea pigs, ferrets and hamsters in their care
• Items for smaller animals including
  • Guinea Pig and Rabbit Pellets
  • Hamster and Ferret Food
  • Bird Feed
  • Bird Toys
  • Wooden Chew Toys
• Monetary Donations are always welcomed

With so many nonprofits asking for end of year donations, we’d like to remind you that even the smallest gift is greatly appreciated and will help brighten the Holidays for a shelter animal.