Animal welfare is a passion of mine—not only as a veterinarian, but also as someone who feels an eternal bond with our furry friends.

I agree with Anatole France, who said:

“Until one has loved an animal, a part of one’s soul remains unawakened.” 

Chances are, if you’re reading this blog, you care deeply about the welfare of all animals—not just your own.
If you want to help other pets live better lives, you can do that with the charities I’m sharing below. If you are the type of person who puts his or her animals’ well-being as a top-priority, keep reading.

First: I have a rule when it comes to animal-focused charities.

When I donate my time or money to a nonprofit with a focus on animal welfare, I ensure that the mission is to strengthen the unity between human beings and their animal counterparts.

Whether it’s training dogs for therapy work or other services, I hope you will consider how you can help make dog and cat lives a little sweeter—especially for those who aren’t as lucky as your fur baby.

American Kennel Club’s Canine Good Citizen

This is a wonderful program that helps dog owners get their pups ready for social interaction.

I’m not talking about social interaction with someone who lives in your house; I’m making reference to the not-so-pleasant encounters some dogs have with other canines and people.

This measure is often considered the first step in therapy work for dogs.
Check out the American Kennel Club’s Canine Good Citizen program. 

Pet Partners

I can’t describe Pet Partners better than their mission statement itself.
“Now more than ever, animals are being called upon to tend to the therapeutic needs of people across an increasingly broad spectrum including autistic children, hospice patients and soldiers returning from war.”

This idea embodies that pets are in fact our partners, through both the good times and the bad. Pet Partners helps to facilitate and nurture the bond humans share with dogs.

Check out the Pet Partners program here. 

Therapy Dogs International

If you’ve so much as taken your pup to visit nursing home patients, you may have a budding service dog on your hands. If you’re interested in certifying your dog as an official animal therapist, this organization is the official registry.

Even when it comes to an emotional trauma, your dog can provide a great comfort. And not only for you and your family—your pup will reach official therapy dog status when he or she touches the lives of others.  

In the video below you’ll see a photo collage of dogs who are working to heal some of the most profound sadness the world has ever felt.
https://www.youtube.com/embed/U3Kym8fSXkY
Visit Therapy Dogs International.  

Guide Dogs for the Blind

Seeing eye dogs are icons among service animals.

Imagine the kinship formed between a blind person and the pup that helps him or her through the day. This training is extensive and requires funding, and you can help.
Check Out Guide Dogs for the Blind.