8 Great Places to Adopt a Pet

Sponsor a Pet…Virtually

What it is: In addition to volunteering at your local animal shelter, consider “adopting” a pet without taking him or her home by sponsoring an animal with monetary donations.

How it works: Many rescue organizations offer some type of pet-sponsoring program, including Petfinder.com Foundation, the Helen O. Krause Animal Foundation, and Animal Friends Rescue Project. Simply send a donation to support an animal that’s tugging at your heart strings, or let the shelter choose the animal that needs your support the most. Your dollars typically go towards food, medicine, and other expenses for the animal you’ve virtually sponsored until he or she finds a permanent home. The organization may send you a photo, a letter of appreciation, or occasional health and adoption updates; some shelters even post a plaque above the pet’s cage to honor certain sponsors.

Why it’s unique: You can still help an animal in need, even if you’re not ready to add a pet to your family or have a full house already.