While there has always been a need for caring and loving people to respond to the needs of helpless and abandoned animals, lately the economic downturns have exacerbated the problem to critical levels. Every day we see distressing pictures of cats and dogs picked up by county pounds. We hear heartfelt stories of folks forced to give up their homes and who can no longer take care of their beloved pets due to expenses. Fortunately, compassionate people respond to this need, but they need your support to continue their work.

Countless volunteer groups are doing their best to insure that these homeless animals are rescued and not put down. You can find a rescue center near you that would be grateful for your time and support. This volunteer service is especially appealing to high school students, who often need service credit for graduation. One rescue center offers an interactive program designed to teach young children appropriate lessons and experiences of owning a pet. All Ears Reading ? promotes a program where ?Pets are the perfect reading partner because they are attentive, non-judgmental and comforting.? Many centers offer community outreach to educate people about the necessity of neutering and vaccinations. The centers work with adult day care programs and assisted living facilities. Another program involving rescued pets assists high-risk adolescent females in developing positive personal skills, so that they can become contributing members of society. Some offer obedience training. These are but a scant few of the positive and caring undertakings of the animal rescue centers. Remember too, the cats and dogs need veterinary care, grooming, feeding, and exercising.

Adults of all ages and professions find they get satisfaction from working with the rescue centers and tending for the cats and dogs there. These animals seem to know that the caregivers are their last hope. The rescue centers keep the animals from euthanasia. They find foster homes and will help match a perspective owner with the right pet.

Not everyone has the time or the patient capacity to perform the day to day care that these cats and dogs require. Nevertheless, if you share a concerned about these animals? welfare, you can help by assisting in the financial support these centers need. Your donations will assure these programs continue.

At the Rescue Patron website, you can find a rescue center that could use your support, whatever form that is.