@suzanagartner
Spring is here after a long winter, and it feels like the season of hope and inspiration. As the weather warms up and the flowers start to bloom, there’s a feeling of freshness and renewal for stepping outdoors and giving back to society and helping the voiceless animals in rescues and sanctuaries. The human caregivers and volunteers have braved the cold for months taking care of the animals in their care, and as spring arrives, we can all do our part to support them.
I’ve had the chance to visit and volunteer at animal rescues and sanctuaries over the years, and it’s such a rewarding experience. From meeting farm animals up close and personal that I don’t normally get a chance to interact with, to feeding, playing with them, and helping with animal enrichment, I found every moment deeply fulfilling. The founders of rescues and sanctuaries work so hard and it’s gratifying to give back. I encourage you to reach out to your local sanctuary and ask how you can help!
At one of the sanctuaries I volunteered at, I ended up fostering and adopting our beautiful dwarf bunny, Zoey. While I’m not suggesting adoption is necessary or even always possible, it was such a surprise and it’s been such a blessing in our lives. Zoey is living her best life now, after having been surrendered to an animal shelter and when the sanctuary took her in they were at capacity and I offered to take her that day. Zoey’s brought us so much happiness over the years.
There are many ways to help sanctuaries that don’t involve adoption.
Here are a few suggestions:
1. Volunteer Your Time
Animal rescues and sanctuaries are volunteer-based, so they don’t receive funding from the government. What does that mean? They rely on donations. In addition to the tremendous amount of daily work involved in caring for animals, sanctuaries need volunteers for tasks ranging from cleaning to feeding to providing enrichment. Some sanctuaries offer open houses or volunteer days, and the spring season is the perfect time to get out there! Whether you’re helping with care or assisting at events, volunteering is a rewarding way to make a tangible difference.
Check online or reach out to your local sanctuary to inquire about volunteer opportunities!
2. Giving Items or Supplies
Sanctuaries often have lists of items they need, from food and bedding to cleaning supplies and enrichment toys. You can make a big impact by donating items like towels, pet food, cleaning products, or toys. These small contributions go a long way in helping sanctuaries provide the best care for their animals. Many sanctuaries list their needs and wants on their websites, so please check their wish lists and see if you can help!
3. Donations or Fundraising or Sponsoring an Animal
Sanctuaries are often privately run, and donations are crucial for their survival. Even small contributions can make a significant difference.
Consider setting up a monthly donation, or holding a fundraising event to help support your favorite sanctuary. For example, one of my good friends runs a sanctuary and recently took in a senior dog in urgent need of medical care after their guardian could no longer care for them.
Veterinary expenses, especially for older animals, can be expensive, so my husband and I donated toward the dog’s medical care. It felt so good to make a real impact. You can also sponsor specific animals that require ongoing care like a horse or goat, and help when they need medical attention. You can meet your sponsor and make a lasting bond.
Sponsoring an animal lets you feel a personal connection to their journey, without the need to adopt.
4. Spread the Word on Social Media
Rescues and sanctuaries are busy places, often overwhelmed by the day-to-day care of animals, and they can benefit greatly from others sharing their stories and greater social media exposure. Help them raise awareness by sharing their posts or advocating for their cause. I’ve been sharing the stories of animals at rescues and sanctuaries, and I give credit and tag them whenever I do. Most of the time, they’re so gracious and thankful for the support! It’s an easy way for you to make a difference to help them attract new supporters and raise awareness in your community. So, if you’re active on social media, consider lending your voice to amplify their message.
5. Share Skills or Areas of Expertise
Many sanctuaries could use specialized help—whether it’s photography, graphic design, event planning, or even legal advice. If you have a passion or skill, like photography or web design, donating your services can help sanctuaries promote their work and attract donors. Feel free to contact your favorite sanctuaries and offer your help; they’ll surely appreciate it!
Conclusion:
As shared in this article, supporting animal rescues and sanctuaries don’t require adopting. From donating your time and supplies to advocating for them, there are countless ways to make a difference for animals this spring. Volunteering at a sanctuary has opened my eyes to the enormous need for awareness and support. It’s not just about showing up, it’s about creating a ripple effect in your community.
Whether you volunteer, donate, or spread the word, every bit helps. This spring, let’s renew our commitment to supporting animals who need our voices.
The rewards for you and the animals are wonderful. Spring is the season for growth, and your actions can help these sanctuaries grow too.
Let’s make this spring a season of giving back to those who can’t speak for themselves. I have signed up at two sanctuaries so far and I am excited to visit them after a long winter. The best part for me is looking into the soulful eyes of the animals. I feel better and renewed.
I hope you have a similar experience when you visit them.
Where to Volunteer or Donate: A Few Sanctuaries to Consider
If you’re looking for sanctuaries to support this spring, here’s a short list of some great rescue organizations to check out. Whether you’re interested in hands on volunteering, donating, or simply spreading the word, these sanctuaries can always use your help! Please share with others!
Farm Sanctuary
Location: Multiple locations (New York, California)
Focus: Farm animals rescued from factory farms, including cows, pigs, chickens, and more.
Website: www.farmsanctuary.org
The Gentle Barn
Location: California, Tennessee, Missouri
Focus: Rescuing farm animals and providing them with lifelong care and compassion.
Website: www.gentlebarn.org
Best Friends Animal Society
Location: Utah (and multiple locations across the U.S.)
Focus: Shelters animals in need, including dogs, cats, and farm animals.
Website: www.bestfriends.org
The Animal Rescue League of Boston
Location: Massachusetts
Focus: Helping animals in need through rescue, rehabilitation, and adoption.
Website: www.arlboston.org
The Wild Animal Sanctuary
Location: Colorado
Focus: Large carnivores (lions, tigers, bears, etc.) that have been rescued from captivity.
Website: www.wildanimalsanctuary.org
There are so many other local rescues and sanctuaries that are smaller and you can find them in your areas. Just search for rescues and sanctuaries near your place and share your experience.
SUZANA GARTNER, B.A, J.D., LL.B.
Animal Advocate, Author, Speaker
SuzanaGartner.com [6]
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