by C. Aldridge

Animal welfare organizations are always on the lookout for new volunteers. If you want to get involved and chip in to protect abandoned and unwanted pets, you’ll find no shortage of opportunities – here’s what to consider first.

Reading

Before you apply, it’s important that you understand the responsibilities you’d be taking on and the different shapes that the world of animal welfare often takes.

• Caring for unwanted pets can be challenging even for the toughest volunteers, it’s a good idea to read some first-hand accounts before committing
• You can watch examples of what our work at Baja Exiles involves on social media
• Volunteers at an animal shelter usually need training, orientation, and even undergo background checks

Organizations

Acquainting yourself with the various active non-profits will help you to decide which you match best and which are most in need of your help.

• Always check with accredited institutions that a charity is legitimate before you begin volunteering
• There are plenty of charities dedicated to the preservation of animal wellbeing in the USA
• Many pets have been affected by the crisis in Ukraine, here are some of the charity organizations trying to help

Ways To Help

Volunteering takes many different forms and it’s possible to help from home, in-person or by donating funds.

• If you can’t get on-site, social media advocacy is often the next best thing. Use your platform to spread awareness
• Money isn’t the only resource required by pet charities and often abandoned or unwanted animals need blankets and supplies
• You could even consider starting your own non-profit using a formation service

There are a great many pets in need of help across the USA and beyond but even the smallest contribution can make a great deal of difference in the long-term, especially if you inspire others to do the same.

El Rancho Exilio Animal Sanctuary is a 501(c)3 charity whose mission is to dramatically reduce the number of unwanted animals in the La Mision area. Learn more, at: www.bajaexiles.com