How to Help Animals in Texas
While BARCS may be a shelter in Baltimore, Maryland, we know that our Facebook Family represents all 50 states across the nation. Our hearts are with those in Texas and the other areas affected by Hurricane Harvey. In the last few days, we’ve had many people ask us what they can do to help animals displaced and shelters distressed from the flooding. No matter where you live, there are ways you can help these animals in need.
CHOOSE ADOPTION. The shelters in the affected areas are already high volume shelters in need of adoptions to save lives. In the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey, these shelters will be filled with animals in need of homes. Adopting means opening a cage for a stray animal that needs a place to go while their families are looking for them.
VOLUNTEER. You can volunteer at your local animal shelter and get the word out about animals up for adoption. For those local to Texas, taking care of strays that may be frightened and hurt after the storm requires loving and patient volunteers willing to help. Also, if you have a truck or other vehicle that can transport animals, consider using it to drive pets to less crowded animal shelters in the area to ease the burden of the ones that will be struggling after the hurricane.
DONATE WISELY. With so many people willing to open their wallets to help Texas’ animals, there are unfortunately fraudulent groups that will take advantage of generous donors. Organizations like Charity Navigator, Guide Star and Charity Watchdog are great resources when searching for reputable shelters and rescue groups to give to. Don’t be fooled! If you are not sure if a group is a 501(c)(3), simply ask. Real nonprofit organizations will readily provide their EIN # to prospective donors.
OPEN YOUR HOME TO FOSTER. Whether you live in Texas, Maryland or elsewhere, opening your home to foster means that rescue groups across the nation are able to transport adoptable animals out of the affected areas. Fostering is a rewarding and lifesaving gift that you can give to animals who need refuge while they wait to find their forever families.
Each and every one of you, our Facebook Family, has played a critical role in helping animals at BARCS. No matter what city or state you hail from, you help us save thousands of lives in Baltimore city each year. We encourage you to turn your thoughts, hearts and incredible lifesaving abilities to Texas in their time of need. No gesture is too small.
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