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In 2017, someone left a pup named Pluto at an animal shelter in South Florida. Unfortunately, he could not use his hind legs because he was paralyzed. Fortunately, the shelter was part of the Rescue Bank program supported by Greatergood.org, which provides food donations to numerous rescue organizations nationwide. It allowed the shelter to give Pluto special rehabilitation programs that helped him recover. Their hard work enabled Pluto to walk unassisted without external devices. After this heartwarming story, a movement to help rescue pets in need was born.
Every year, a week of July is dedicated to National Feed a Rescue Pet Week, aimed at supporting shelters and rescue organizations in providing food for the animals under their care. When does National Feed a Rescue Pet Week occur? It’s different from year to year, but in 2023 occurred from July 17 to 23.
The History Behind National Feed a Rescue Pet Week
This cause was established through the collaboration of GreaterGood.org and The Animal Rescue Site. Together, they initiated an annual campaign to supply animal shelters throughout the country with essential food for the animals under their care. Since then, several other charities and non-profit organizations have also taken up this cause and dedicated their resources towards achieving the same objective every year during this week.
Countless organizations rely on the generosity of animal lovers who selflessly seek to aid animals in need through donations. Donating food to these animals can have a considerable impact. It allows shelters to allocate their funds towards other crucial needs, such as spaying and neutering programs, vaccines, and specialized care for animals that require extra attention, like medical attention. Shelter workers work tirelessly day in and day out to rescue and care for homeless, abused, and malnourished animals. But their dedication to this cause does not go unnoticed. The primary objective of this week-long holiday is to provide something as basic yet essential as food, enabling shelters to save as many animals as possible.
Why Is This Initiative So Important?
By providing aid to animal welfare organizations for their food expenses, we are helping to support and care for unfortunate pets in need. This assistance allows these organizations to focus on other essential aspects of care, such as assisting suffering animals on their journey to recovery and adoption. With our support, these shelters can accept more pets and provide them with what they need to thrive.
The 4 Best Ways to Celebrate National Feed a Rescue Pet Week
1. Donate
One way to positively impact your community is to consider donating essential items to your local animal rescue or shelter. Canned or dry food, kitten milk replacement, puppy pads, litter, treats, toys, and cleaning supplies for cats and dogs are always appreciated. It’s important to note that some shelters may also have hamsters, rabbits, guinea pigs, gerbils, and horses, which require specific items such as hand towels, bath towels, untreated grass mats, food, toys, and treats.
Cleaning supplies are also in high demand at all shelters and rescues, including laundry detergent, dish soap, blankets, paper towels, trash bags, scouring pads, lint rollers, and disinfecting wipes. Monetary donations are an additional way to make a difference in the lives of these animals. By contributing to your local animal rescue or shelter, you can help provide these animals with basic needs and a better quality of life.
2. Volunteer
If you want to make a positive impact on animals and spread kindness, volunteering at your local shelter or rescue is a great idea. These organizations always need extra help, and as a volunteer, you can assist with various tasks such as fostering pets, cleaning cages, taking dogs for walks, feeding and socializing with animals, and even driving animals to and from vet appointments. Your contribution as a volunteer can make a significant difference by helping these pets find their forever homes and receive the love they deserve.
3. Report Mistreatment
One of the helpful ways to celebrate National Feed A Rescue Pet Week is to report any suspected animal cruelty or neglect to your local animal control.
4. Adopt a Homeless Pet
If you’re interested in bringing a pet into your life, it’s worth considering adopting one from a local animal shelter or rescue organization. This is a wonderful opportunity to provide a caring and permanent home for a furry or feathered friend. Whether seeking a purebred or mixed breed, you may find your perfect match at a shelter or rescue. Keep in mind that many animals have special needs, may be shy, or are older, and they often go unnoticed and need a loving forever home. Therefore, it’s essential to consider adopting one of these overlooked creatures and giving them a chance to live a happy and fulfilling life.
Conclusion
All pets deserve to receive enough food, no matter their circumstances. Our support can create more space in shelters for animals who require medical attention and a chance until they find a new home. National Feed A Rescue Pet Week was established in 2017 by The Animal Rescue Site and Greater Good Charities to raise awareness of the critical need for pet food in animal shelters and encourage individuals to support their local animal welfare organizations.
Featured Image Credit: Rami, Happonen, Shutterstock
