Dog Friendly Brooklyn

I know so many animal lovers who, for a variety of reasons, aren’t able to adopt right now. Owning a pet is a major responsibility: no more post-work marathon happy hours when Spot is at home desperate for a walk. The decision to adopt a pet should not be taken lightly, which is why I never urge friends to get a pet if they suspect they’re not ready.

But just because you can’t bring a shelter animal into your life right now, doesn’t mean you can’t help animal rescue and rehoming efforts! Here are a few suggestions:

• Volunteer – NYC’s many shelters are often looking for volunteers, and they don’t necessarily require a lot of your time!  The ASPCA asks for a minimum of 8 hours per month and has volunteers doing everything from adoptions to administrative work (something to consider if you’re allergic).  The Brooklyn Animal Resource Coalition (BARC) needs volunteers for dog walking and cat socializing – no minimum time commitment.
• Product donations – Do you have unused cleaning supplies? Pet supplies? Most animal shelters are in constant need of these items, and welcome donations.  Animal Care & Control will also take your old towels and blankets.


A cat bed (not handmade, sadly)

• Transportation – the Brooklyn Animal Foster Network uses volunteers to transport animals to and from their temporary homes. So if you have a car, this might be a good option for you. (BAFN also needs home checkers to occasionally look in on foster homes).
• Handmade bedding – for crafty types, you can put your skills to work by making blankets and even toys for shelter animals – those cages aren’t particularly comfortable.  The Mayor’s Alliance for NYC’s Animals has basic instructions for making a cage quilt.
• Fostering – if you’re seriously considering adoption, but want to experience first hand the impact a new pet will have on your life, you may want to consider fostering an animal for a short time.  The city has many, many animals that fair poorly in the shelter environment, and need temporary homes with caring people.  Visit BAFN or the ASPCA for more information.