Discovering YOU Magazine November 2019 Issue | Page 38

3. Volunteer at your local shelter or rescue organization. Animal shelters and rescue organizations offer numerous volunteer roles, such as dog walkers, adoption support and training support. Many positions don't require prior experience and can be applied for on your local shelter or rescue organization's website. Volunteer positions vary in expectations and demand, so there is a position for everyone.

You can also volunteer to participate in a shelter rebuild project. Hartz Loving Paws renovates shelters twice a year in partnership with GreaterGood.org's Rescue Rebuild program. These teams work with shelters to create playful and welcoming environments for animals.

"Help animals find homes sooner by taking adoption photos for local shelters."

4. Take photos of adoptable pets. Help animals find homes sooner by taking adoption photos for local shelters. Many people search for adoptable pets online, and with a great profile picture, animals have a greater chance at being adopted. If you're new to photography, there are free training videos available on the One Picture Saves a Life website that show how to take better photos of shelter pets.

5. Become an advocate. Follow animal shelters and rescue organizations on social media and reshare their content. Talk to your family and friends about the importance of caring for shelter pets while they await their forever homes and share how they can help.