The thought that pets and animals in your area may be abused, neglected, or simply in need of a good home can be truly troubling. However, here’s the good news: there are things you can do to help. Here are some resources and tips for supporting local animals, presented to you below by Paws 2 Purrfection Promotions.

Find Local Charities to Support:

Use these tools to look up animal shelters and other charities.

• Help animals of all kinds by supporting animal-focused organizations and charities. Be sure to look for those with a good track record of financial and ethical responsibility.
• If you can't donate your time or money, consider donating pet supplies like food, bedding, toys, leashes, and more. Paws 2 Purrfection Promotions offers a great selection of products at low prices, so you can afford to donate even more things!
• Look beyond your immediate neighborhood and find national animal charities you can donate to.

Consider Starting Your Own Nonprofit:

If you haven’t found a lot of animal charities in your area, start your own with these tips.

• Learn about the steps needed to set up your own nonprofit. You’ll want to use your state’s association for nonprofits to ensure you are in compliance.
• Write a business plan that details exactly how your nonprofit will be managed.
• Scope out funding sources to get the money you need to start your business, from angel investors to bank loans.
• Set up a separate bank account to manage your nonprofit's financials, keeping them distinct from your own.

Encourage Others in Your Community to Get Involved:

Spread the word about your activities and get others on board.

• Promote your efforts to help animals by creating an infographic that illustrates what you are doing to address current needs. Try an infographic maker to speed up the process with free templates and tools.
• Create a fundraising event to meet a specific financial goal for your charity. Determine your target audience and then share your overall purpose so they know what they are supporting.
• Get inspired by these charity partnerships to make your own connections.
• Motivate others in your community to volunteer by showing appreciation, such as by writing thank you letters for chipping in.

Choose Your Means for Support and Jump IN:

You can't take in every stray cat or dog in your area. However, you can take other steps to support animals in your community. Whether you encourage others to get involved, donate your time or resources, or start your own nonprofit, you can truly make a difference. These resources can help you do your part.

Are you a breeder or rescue wanting to help your new pet parents set up for safety and success with their new best friend and build brand awareness too? Check out the Paws 2 Purrfection website for all your custom printed, logo-branded pet safety items, travel accessories, treats, toys, apparel-related swag and more, to help keep those adventure pups happy, healthy and safe!

*This article was a guest submission by Jessica Brody of ourbestfriends.pet