Animal Charities that Deserve Our Support
Veterinarians see a world of love each day in our offices—humans bringing in their pets for everything from routine checkups to emergency situations. Their pet’s health and happiness mean everything to pet parents! But unfortunately, there are animals who don’t have these same experiences.
That’s why it’s important for us to support animal charities that work to better the lives of our animal friends, both furry and scaly. From service animals to rescuing abused pets and the conservation of endangered species, there’s so many animal charities across a range of causes that will fill your heart.
Homeward Pet
Every pet deserves a loving home. Homeward Pet helps them find one through compassionate medical care, positive behavior training and successful adoption. Located in Woodinville, Wash., Homeward Pet finds forever homes for roughly 1,800 cats and dogs each year. It’s also a no-kill shelter, and they rely completely on donor support for food, shelter and vet care for their animals.
National Greyhound Foundation
As racing greyhounds fall out of favor or as the majestic dogs age out of the racetrack, there are countless greyhounds who need a forever home. Charities like the National Greyhound Foundation work to find families for former racing dogs. Known for being athletic, yet gentle and affectionate, these dogs make great additions to homes wanting to give them a more relaxed second chapter.
Seattle Humane
One of the reasons owners end up having to give up their pets is due to housing inequities, lack of access to quality veterinary care, and making the tough decision between paying an overdue bill or a beloved pet. Seattle Humane seeks to create a culture of equality in animal welfare by providing affordable spay and neuter surgery, wellness care, vaccinations, and microchips for pets of low-income guardians. Adoption services are also available for those who want to extend their family.
Animal Welfare Institute
This animal charity covers the entire animal kingdom in its advocacy, working to end animal testing, horse slaughters, and preservation of species. The Animal Welfare Institute also runs Safe Havens for Pets, a project that helps survivors of domestic violence find safe housing for their pets as they leave behind an abusive situation.
Chewy Gives Back
The popular pet superstore is giving back by connecting donors with animal rescues in need across the country. Simply type in your zip code and you’ll find a list of animal charities located right in your community that are in need of monetary donations, gifts from their wish list, or you can look through their list of adoptable animals.
K9s for Warriors
You know the difference your dog has made in your family’s life, especially the unconditional love they provide through thick and thin. That’s why service dogs have been so important to veterans dealing with PTSD, traumatic brain injuries, and sexual assault. K9s for Warriors works to provide access to these specially trained and lovable dogs for veterans who need their services and affection.
Guiding Eyes for the Blind
People with vision loss also benefit from service dogs, and Guiding Eyes for the Blind is one of 11 accredited schools in the nation that matches trained guide dogs with those who need them. According to the school, 75,000 people each year will lose their vision, proving just how important it is for us to show our support for this animal charity.
Ocean Conservancy
Oceans make up 70 percent of our planet, and the animals who call them home have as much a need as those on land. Ocean Conservancy invests in preservation of marine wildlife, clean oceans, curbing climate change, and research to save our seas.
National Audubon Society
Appreciation of birds is nothing new for the National Audubon Society, having been founded in 1905. Today, the animal charity continues its goal of protecting birds and their habitats by conserving and restoring ecosystems, particularly from drilling activities that disrupt wildlife, as well as planting native flora.
The Sato Project Dog Rescue
On the island of Puerto Rico, there’s an estimated 500,000 abandoned stray dogs. This animal charity works to rescue these pets as well as community outreach, education and adoption efforts. It all started at an infamous dumping ground on the island for unwanted and abused dogs.
The Amphibian and Reptile Conservancy
From frogs to snakes and lizards, the Amphibian and Reptile Conservancy has its eyes on reptiles and amphibians, partnering with other agencies to conduct surveys of rare species, restore wetlands, lead training and educational workshops, and spread the love for these critters.
The Nature Conservancy
This organization focuses on keeping our natural resources healthy and untouched, which directly impacts the state of wildlife across the planet. Initiatives include climate change, protecting land and water, sustainable practices for food and water, and building healthy cities.
With so many animals in need around the globe, we hope you’ve been moved by our list of just a few animal charities doing great work. Did any of these causes motivate you to be a part of the change? You can also always reach out to your local animal rescue and the animal charities right in your own backyard to see if they are in need of volunteers and in-kind donations!
