Many animal rescue organizations focus on rescuing dogs and cats. Other rescue groups specialize in specific breeds or different types of animals. Even wildlife rescue groups focus on rehabilitating wild animals and placing them captive at a zoo or sanctuary. Learn how animal rescue organizations make a difference for animals across the world.
They Save the Lives of Stray Animals
There are many different animal rescue organizations; some are focused on rehoming domesticated pets, while others work to protect wildlife or farm animals. Still, they all have one thing in common: a commitment to making the world a better place for animals. A successful animal rescue organization relies on donations and adoption fees to survive. Often, they also provide food, veterinary care and other essentials. Depending on the organization, they may conduct education campaigns or spay/neuter initiatives. Some rescue groups work in conjunction with municipal shelters to help ease overcrowding. They adopt dozens of cats and dogs every month. These programs are vital to stemming the influx of unwanted animals into municipal shelters. In addition, they also offer community cat trap/neuter/return programs to reduce the number of stray cats.
They Save the Lives of Animals with Health Issues
Many animals are surrendered to shelters by their owners due to eviction, health concerns, and other situations that are not necessarily their fault. It is easy to villainize people who give up their pets, but as animal advocates, we must remember that they often do it out of love and with the best intentions for their animals.
Many rescued animals have health issues, including broken legs, mange, dental problems, heartworm, etc. They can also have mental health issues from living in confined spaces and being exposed to cruelty and neglect.
Rescuers like the Humane Society of New York work to treat these animals and help them find permanent homes with quality veterinary care and behavior resources for their new families. Some animal rescues are national; others work locally and may specialize in certain pet types. They do this work despite limited budgets and with volunteer support. Support these organizations by adopting a dog or cat, volunteering, donating money, and advocating for them.
They Save the Lives of Animals with Behavioral Issues
Animal rescue groups can save the lives of animals with behavioral issues by rehabilitating them and finding them loving homes. This process is often long and requires patience, training, play, and love. The goal is to turn them into happy, well-mannered pets.
Many of these animals have been badly treated and traumatized, which can be challenging in a new environment. They can be fearful or aggressive and show signs of anxiety or depression.
Donate to your local shelter or animal rescue group. This money is used for food, medical care, staffing, supplies, pet housing upgrades, community outreach programs, and more. Ensure to ask for references and a copy of their 501(c)(3) status before adopting a pet from an animal rescue organization.
They Save the Lives of Animals with Special Needs
Animal rescue organizations often house animals with a wide variety of needs. From farm sanctuaries that provide a safe and comfortable environment for farmed animals to foster homes that take in animals who need a new beginning, animal shelters and rescue groups help countless pets find loving homes forever.
Whether the animal in need is a cat, dog, rabbit or even an exotic bird, an animal rescue organization works tirelessly to ensure these pets get their second chance. Your monetary donation helps fund the cost of rescuing these animals, providing them with necessary medical care, and finding a suitable forever home.
Many shelters and rescues rely on volunteers to help them with their work. Those with special skills like carpentry, marketing, or dog walking are in high demand. The volunteers of these groups can help make a significant impact on the lives of the pets they serve.
