'Tis the season for giving – and that includes causes for our furry friends, too! A toy, bone, collar, or even a blood donation are just some of the ways you can make a pet’s holiday merrier. From donating to animal shelters to supporting low-income pet owners, here’s a handful of ways to keep tales wagging all winter long, and for more ways to chip in, contact your local rescue to find out what they need.
Sometimes helping animals is as easy as patronizing local businesses, like the Ocean State Pepper Company. Teaming up with Rhode Island PBS digital series Animal Talk this holiday season, the Pawtucket-based pepper business donates 10 percent of proceeds from purchases of their starter pack – which includes five of their fan-favorite gourmet seasonings – to a local shelter. Ocean State Pepper’s passion for dogs extends to their Pepper for Pitties advocacy, too. RhodyPepper.com/pages/pitties
Healthy pups and their owners can help dogs in need by donating to the blood bank at Ocean State Veterinary Specialists (OSVS) and their sister hospital Bay State Veterinary Emergency and Specialty Services. Just like humans, blood donations can help save lives, and OSVS is always seeking candidates to donate. Dogs 55 pounds and over that are in good health, have good temperaments, and are fully vaccinated are qualified to give, and owners must commit to donating at least three times a year to meet the high demand. One donation can help up to four other pups. East Greenwich, OSVS.net/blood-bank
For furry friends spending the festive season in local shelters waiting for their permanent home, add a little cheer to their lives by participating in the Pawliday Drive, run by We’re Here For the Dogs. Founder Tracy Kardys had a lightbulb moment when she noticed the adopt-a-family trees around the holidays and decided to create a version to support shelter dogs and cats. The idea has only grown over the years, last year helping more than 16 shelters. Look for holiday trees at local businesses throughout the state (and find a list of all spots online), where you can choose a tag with a pet’s name on it as well as the gift or item on their wishlist to purchase.
WereHereForTheDogs.org/pawliday
The Rhode Island Pet Network is in search of Santa Paws sponsors to help low-income pet owners, especially senior citizens with pets. Teaming up with Vintage Pet Rescue and other social service organizations, the network posts photos of pets in need on Facebook all month with their wishlist, and folks are encouraged to donate a grocery gift card for the pet family, too.Also supporting animal rescues, the RI Pet Network also collects dry and wet dog and cat food, litter, pet toys, cleaning products, and blankets, as well as monetary donations to assist with emergency vet bills. RIPetNetwork.org/events
Five-year-old Lulu sadly ended up in a shelter when her elderly owner passed away. A mixed-breed dog, possibly part shepherd, she loves people and would be a great companion for someone who works from home and doesn’t have any other pets. A fenced-in yard would be ideal so she can run around off leash and not be bothered by other dogs that may pass by. If you think Lulu might be the girl for you, contact Save One Soul Animal Rescue League via email Info@sosarl.org or visit their website at SOSARL.org to set up a time to meet.
If you have been thinking of adopting or know of an animal in need, please contact Karen Kalunuan directly at animaltalk1920@gmail.com.
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