
Alternatives to having your own pet
Not all animal lovers have the opportunity to keep their own animal long term. Anyone who still wants to take care of an animal, can consider various alternatives.
Not all animal lovers have the opportunity to keep their own animal long term. Anyone who still wants to take care of an animal, can consider various alternatives.

Volunteering: Taking care of rescue animals
Rescue centres often require support from volunteers. This can involve various tasks, from walking the dogs to hosting an event like the open house. It's best to ask at a rescue centre near you.
Walking dogs: Many rescue centres are happy for people to volunteer who would like to walk the dogs in their care. Get in touch with a rescue near you and ask.
Playing with rescue cats: Many rescue centres look for special volunteers to spend time with their cats as an essential part of their socialisation and rehabilitation prior to adoption.
Reading stories: This beautiful gesture has far-reaching effects. The dogs and cats get more comfortable and lose their fear. Heavily traumatised animals often succeed in regaining trust in people from listening to people read, which increases their chances of adoption.

Donations
Rescue centres are dependent on donations for their animals. These benefits can be both monetary or physical donations. Cash donations are of enormous importance, as they enable many necessary measures, such as cost-intensive veterinary care and feeding. What and how much is needed donors can ask directly at the rescue.
Fostering: providing a temporary home
A foster home offers an excellent opportunity to care for an animal for a limited period of time, providing a loving home taking care of its well-being.
Becoming a sponsor
Sponsors make a valuable contribution to animals in rescue centres. Sometimes it is only a small monthly contribution that helps to ensure the costs of food and medical care.
Advice for animal lovers
If you look around you will discover many opportunities to look after animals without having your own. Sometimes it is enough to look in your personal network. There may be someone in need of some extra care for their four-legged friend.