Countdown to Earth Day: Donate!
It’s safe to say that landfills have been taking over. Maps like these show how fast they have appeared, and how many landfills there are around us! The sad thing is that they are filling up much faster than they need to. Our culture is quick to throw out what we don’t need anymore.
However, there are often people, or in this case, animals who could use what you no longer need. One big example of this is rescues or shelters, especially no-kill shelters. They have taken in dogs, cats, and other animals with the hopes of giving them new homes. To feed, shelter, and rehabilitate the animals take a lot of time, money and resources.
By donating, you are not only helping protect the environment and reduce waste in landfills, but you are also supporting animals in need.
If you are unsure of what you can donate, ask yourself these two questions: is it in good shape? Would it be something that I could use to care for a dog? If the answer to both of these is YES, then please donate it to a shelter instead of throwing it in the trash. The dogs and the environment will thank you!
For instance, if you have a dog collar that your dog has outgrown but it is chewed up, it’s not a good donation. If you have a dog collar that your dog outgrew that is also in good shape, go ahead and donate it! This same thought process goes for any item you might have that you would like to donate.
Here are some things that you could donate:
- Dog food bowls and water bowls
- Unused toys
- Leashes and collars
- Clean brushes and grooming tools
- Unopened bottles of shampoo or conditioner
- Pet beds
- Unexpired, unopened dog food, either wet or dry (you might want to get in contact with the shelter to see which they would prefer)
- Unexpired, unopened dog treats (or perhaps some homemade treats!)
- Gift cards to pet stores
Just remember that dog supplies aren’t the only thing that a shelter or rescue needs. They also need to clean the shelter and office. For their business side of the office, they could be greatly helped by printing paper or ink cartridges, or other supplies.
Here are some non-dog specific supplies that you could donate:
- Old newspapers
- Paper towels
- Old towels or blankets
- Hand sanitizer
- Cleaning supplies
- Office supplies
Remember! You can donate to the Humane Society of Summit County (HSSC) through WoofPack Trails! If you raise $100 between April 14 and April 21 for their Paws for a Cause Virtual Walk, you will be entered into a drawing for a $25 Starbucks gift card and a WoofPack! Also, any purchase you make from WoofPack Trails will donate 10% to the HSSC if you use the code HSSC.
Daleen Cowgar is a junior at Malone University where she is studying English with minors in Public Relations and Creative Writing. She loves playing with words and looks forward to spending her career continuing to do just that. She also enjoys interacting with the variety of animals that she pet sits.