We all have a soft spot for our furry friends but giving them well-balanced care is expensive. Animal–welfare organisations try their best to make care accessible despite being the lowest-funded NPOs.
Donations help the prevention of suffering animals and give them a second chance at life, which is why shelters like DogtownSA have launched incentives to generate more funds. After following the programme Dogtown on Nat Geo Wild, qualified dog trainer, animal behaviourist and DogtownSA founder Tracy McQuarrie says, “Shelter dogs have an unfair reputation of being problem dogs, but if we could assist shelters with a training and rehabilitation programme for the animals in their care, these dogs can go on to be happy, well-adjusted pets.”
Here are five reasons why it’s important to donate to animal charities:
Show support
Animal shelters rely heavily on donations from the public to run their programs. Most animal charities have charity shops to help them raise the needed funds, where you can show support by donating your old (but still usable) goods for resale. DogtownSA recently launched their Barkinglot monthly lottery in a bid to fund animal rescue groups around the country.
Help in times of need
Economic downturns or health crises, like the Covid-19 pandemic, can put an even bigger strain on an NPO’s ability to respond to animal abandonment, neglect and suffering. The money collected from donations will have a positive impact on the organisation’s ability to respond to these heightened needs. During this time, animal charities often take on the responsibility to help communities through healthcare, vaccinations and sterilisations.
Also read: Adding charity donations to your budget
Educate pet owners
Caring for your furry friend takes more than just feeding and playing with them. Donations support educational programs that teach responsible pet ownership including information about proper care, training and the importance of neutering your four-legged friends. If more people know how to properly take care of their pets, the less animals suffer.
Encourage social responsibility
In South Africa, only a small percentage of the population and large corporates invest in animal welfare. Businesses that invest in animal welfare send a powerful message to animal lovers. Not only can it inspire other corporations to contribute to animal welfare, but it will encourage more animal lovers to support their businesses more.
Tax Benefits
As if donating to registered animal charities couldn’t get any better, you’re eligible for tax deductions. As of 1962, the donor and the organisation receive no tax deduction – it’s a win-win! This incentive shows a little appreciation for your efforts to making animals lives better.
Photography: DogtownSA,
