Filed under Pet Friendly Apartments on October 2nd, 2008:
Love Animals But Don’t Want to Commit? 5 Ways to Help
Owning a pet is a big commitment of time, money and freedom. There are many reasons why some people do not or cannot own a pet. For some people it may be their lack of finances. For others it may be that their Los Angeles apartment’s pet policy is less than liberal. Sometimes it’s just that their nomadic nature compels them to stay away from pet ownership. While it can seem unfortunate when circumstances prevent an animal lover from owning pets themselves, it is actually golden opportunity to enjoy the company of animals through volunteerism.
Helping Way #1:
Become foster parents for pets. There are a number of non-profit animal shelter organizations in Los Angeles where people are able to sign up to be pet foster parents. This is a great help to those pets who need a temporary home while the shelter searches for permanent home. Among these organizations is the Much Love Animal Shelter in Los Angeles. Find out about their foster program at http://www.muchlove.org/foster.htm.
Helping Way #2:
Volunteer for animal advocate organization. Animal Advocates, the non-profit animal rescue and education organization out of Santa Monica is looking for your help. They rescue all sorts of natural wildlife and are always looking for volunteers to assist their wildlife rehabilitators. More information available at http://www.animaladvocates.us/help.htm.
Helping Way #3:
Volunteer at LA Animal Services. The LA Animal Services is constantly looking for volunteers to help with the animals they save from the streets. Volunteers perform a number of duties in the animal care facility and in with off-site adoption. Volunteers can choose their own hours from a flexible schedule and there is an orientation session for new help. For more information go to the LA Animal Services webpage at http://www.laanimalservices.com/index.htm.
Helping Way #4:
Work with PETA to protect animals. The PETA organization, or People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, has a long history of outspoken animal support in America. Through their websites people can become members of PETA and donate money and time to help protect animals from abuse, exploitation and inhumane treatment. Find out about their cause and how you can help, go to http://www.peta.org/.
Helping Way #5:
Sponsor an animal at a rescue organization. If you don’t have the time or ability to volunteer, the next best thing is to be a sponsor. Animal rescue organization North Shore Animal League of America is the biggest no-kill animal rescue organization in the world. When you sponsor a pet through them you provide housing, food and medical attention for a special dog or cat. Find more information go to http://www.nsalamerica.org/sponsor to sign up to be pet foster parents.