As much as us dog lovers wish we could take home every doggy in the window, sadly, it isn’t feasible. However, you can help make a difference in countless dogs’ lives by helping support the shelters that provide love, food and a warm place to sleep for pooches in need. Don’t have deep pockets, but still want to help? That’s ok. Here are 11 creative methods for raising money for the shelter.
1. It’s my party, and I’ll help dogs if I want to.
Another year older? If anyone asks what you want for your birthday, ask for a shelter donation in your name. To take it even further, set up an account on a fundraising website with a goal amount of money you’d like to raise by your birthday. Share it on social media.
2. Wedding favors for fido.
Again, this is another chance to ask for donations in lieu of gifts. You can even set up a registry online and add charitable donation to a shelter as one of the options.
3. A Bark Sale.
Make goodies to sell at work, school, or anywhere else that will let you! Make some homemade dog treats while you’re at it!
4. Clean out that closet, it’s for the canines!
You’ve been itching to get rid of those clothes that no longer fit anyway. Hold a yard sale, and donate the proceeds to your favorite shelter or rescue.
5. When life gives you lemons…
Create a lemonade stand to raise money for the shelter! This one is especially fun to do with the help of little ones. Who doesn’t want a cold, refreshing glass of fresh squeezed lemonade in the dog days of summer? Even better, they can help pups at the same time.
6. Working at the dog wash!
Wanna meet a bunch of new dogs and have a ton of fun? Make some signs, round up your friends, and host a dog wash! Give pooches a bath for a shelter donation. See if a local business (or maybe even the shelter you’re donating to) will let you use their parking lot for the day. You’ll want a safe area roped off. Pay close attention to the dogs so they don’t wander.
7. Pooch pawty time!
Hosting or attending any events? Consider placing a donation jar near the appetizer or drink station.
8. Team up with a restaurant.
Many restaurants host fundraiser nights, and donate a certain percentage of all sales that night to a cause. Host one for your shelter, and spread the word.
9. Get comfy!
See if your school or employer will allow a casual dress day to help benefit an animal shelter. For a $1 donation, employees can wear jeans to work one day.
10. Let’s get cookin’.
Get your neighborhood involved in some sort of competition. This is a great way to bring the community together for a good cause. Charge an entry fee or tasting fee. Winner gets bragging rights.
11. Use your talents!
Are you a pro hula-hooper? Ask people to pledge a certain amount of money per minute you keep the hoop on your hips. You could shoot hoops, walk miles, jumprope, etc. It gets you active, gets others involved, and helps raise money.
