Here are some lesser-known items that local animal shelters may appreciate receiving, beyond the typical donations like food, bedding, or toys. While these items may not be at the top of most people’s donation lists, they can make a real difference in the day-to-day operations of animal shelters.
Remember to contact your local shelter directly to confirm their most needed items. . Their needs may vary depending on the season, the number of animals in their care, and their current resources. When you call, ask if you could even schedule a date/time to dop items off so someone there would be available to help you get the items out of your vehicle.
Possible Donation Items For Animal Shelters:
- Old Towels, Blankets and Sheets – Shelters can use these for bedding, cleaning, or to wrap injured animals.
- Newspapers/Magazines – It’s great for lining cages, litter boxes, or helping with clean-ups.
- Pet-safe Cleaning Supplies – Shelters often need things like non-toxic cleaners, disinfectants, or air fresheners to maintain hygiene and reduce the spread of illness.
- Used Furniture – Items like chairs, sofas, or even office furniture can be repurposed for shelter staff or even for pet comfort.
- Heating Pads – Especially for puppies, kittens, or sick animals, heating pads can provide extra comfort.
- Pet Carriers and Crates – Any unused or extra pet carriers (especially the plastic ones) are often needed for transportation or housing.
- Grooming Supplies – Brushes, nail clippers, flea combs, and grooming scissors can help with the care of animals.
- Leashes and Collars – Even if used, shelters can always use extra leashes and collars, especially ones that are sturdy.
- Animal Toys/Enrichment Items:
- Puzzle toys: To stimulate the minds of the animals and prevent boredom.
- Chew toys (durable): To satisfy natural chewing instincts and prevent destructive behaviors.
- Interactive toys: To provide mental and physical stimulation for the animals.
- Unused Medication or Supplements – Expired or unused medications, flea/tick treatments, or vitamins (still within their use-by dates) can often be used.
- Food Storage Containers – Large containers to store bulk pet food safely are always appreciated.
- Peanut Butter or Baby Food – Shelters can use peanut butter for training treats or baby food to help with feeding underweight or sick animals.
- Small Plastic Containers or Jars – These can be used for storing medication, treats, or to feed small animals like rodents or birds.
- Dry Erase Markers & Notepads – For shelters with high volumes of animals, these are helpful for record-keeping, marking cage info, or making quick reminders.
- Cricket or Mealworm Containers – If the shelter houses reptiles, they may need storage for live insects.
- Unopened Litter Boxes or Litter – Any extra cat litter boxes, especially the plastic ones, can be very useful, and shelters may also need extra supplies of litter.
- Bleach, Laundry Detergent & Fabric Softener – Essential for washing animal bedding, towels, and other supplies.
- Pet Food Samples – Shelters can often use samples from food companies to diversify diets or help animals with specific needs.
- Washable Pee Pads – These can be a great option for young or elderly animals, particularly in case of potty training or medical recovery.
- Birdcages or Hamster Cages – If the shelter also cares for small pets, spare cages can be quite helpful.
- Fleece Fabric Scraps – These can be used to create comfortable bedding or blankets for animals in need of warmth.
