Bringing animals and people together has always been the mission of animal rescuers, and as organizations like Palmetto Animal League prepare to operate at critical capacity for an unknown span of time, the need for compassionate, no kill animal rescue only grows.
So many people have been asking me how they can help. It occurred to me that people need animals right now just as much as the animals need us. The power of companionship can be life-changing for both pets and humans, so at PAL we are offering several ideas for helping animals. What folks will get in return is lots of love and positivity, which we could all use during this time.
Foster. One of the best ways to save shelter pets right now is to foster. So, while you’re spending more time at home, please consider inviting a shelter pet to join you. (PAL pets are happy to entertain your children and they won’t use your toilet paper!)
When we can move happy, healthy, awesome animals into foster homes, it opens space for us to rescue other pets in desperate need, enabling us to use resources for the most at-risk animals, including those with urgent medical needs and those in immediate danger due to space requirements at other shelters. Email Sally@PalmettoAnimalLeague.org to learn about becoming a short-term foster.
Adopt. Bringing a new pet into your life can ease restlessness and renew a sense of schedule. And during this time of social distancing, a furry friend can be a welcome companion, too.
PAL is offering open air adoptions during COVID-19, where you can adopt without even stepping foot in our Adoption Center. Folks can schedule a “video meet & greet” with an adoptable pet. Interested in a dog on our website? We’ll meet you in the parking lot! And we’ll help you complete your adoption application over the phone. All of our adoptable pets have profiles on our website, so take a peek and be sure to call ahead or call us in the parking lot at 843-645-1725.
For those who want to visit our Adoption Center, we want to let you know our top priority is keeping people safe while helping the animals in our care. We have implemented several changes to our already stringent sanitary standards, including hourly disinfecting, required hand cleaning for anyone entering the facility, and allowing only one person (or family) per cat room.
Donate. Of course, one very important way you can help right now is through donations. PAL is a private, non-profit, no kill animal rescue organization that receives no government funding. We rely fully on donations and the kindness of our supporters. With social distancing, we’ve seen a drop in visitors, which equates to a drop in financial support. Funds are more crucial than ever as we care for about 200 animals and remain ready to rescue more pets in dire situations. If you can, please consider making a heartfelt gift online at www.PalmettoAnimalLeague.org..
Amy Campanini, Palmetto Animal League President
Click here to see this story and other local news in The Bluffton Sun.
Thank you to our PAL Partners in Rescue, The Bluffton Sun and The Hilton Head Sun for being beacons of compassion and hope for homeless pets in our community. Please show your support for these local animal loving businesses!
