There are many ways people can help beyond the traditional means..

1) Sponsor a dog - pick a dog up for adoption and make it your mission to help find them a home.  Come meet the dog, then talk to your friends about the experience, add their profile link to your signature in emails, post their picture up on your bullentin board at work - in other words, become that dog's personal advocate to finding them a furever home.

2) Belong to an organization?  Pick a rescue or shelter, then ask to make a presentation to your organization's next meeting about the need to adopt a shelter dog.  It is always a matter of education regarding how severe the crisis is, and if you ask for help with others you know, generally the 'light bulb' clicks on and a dog finds their furever home!

3) Houses of faith are on the list too.  Ask your minister, pastor or rabbi to hold a day of blessing for the animals.  Ask for a special monthly collection, then donate it to your favorite shelter or rescue.

4) Out shopping?  Your favorite rescue or shelter can ALWAYS use paper towels, laundry detergent, copy paper, etc.  Through an extra in your shopping basket and help to save a dog's life.

5) Become an animal advocate.  Know which of your elected officials are for animals and No-Kill.  Cast your vote for those you know will champion the cause and help save animal lives.  If your elected official does not, voice your intent to vote compassionate and not party line.

6) Recycle!  Most rescues are part of at least one recycling program to generate funds.  TLC is part of computer ink cartridge recycling efforts (each one is worth $2.00 towards our office supply cost) and recycling of clean plastic and cans.  Find out what your favorite rescue is part of and then start recycling to save a life for them!

7) Everyone has a talent that can save a life.  Give a list of your talents and skills to your favorite rescue or shelter - you just never know what is needed by them and you might be able in turn, to save an animal's life - it takes a community of many different talents and resources just to save one animal's life!

8) Have an idea for fundraising?  Rescues are ALWAYS behind the eight ball financially, trying to pay for vaccines, cover vet bills, bailout dogs from shelters' kill lists, etc. Most volunteers for a rescue have a full or part time job and their resources are spread thin.  Get a program up and running to generate more funds (even a dollar helps - put a few together and it covers the cost of a much needed vaccine).