How To Get Involved With International Animal Rescue

The world has become a much smaller place over the last couple of decades. More so than ever, we are seeing crises for animals in other corners of the planet as our own problem to deal with, which has helped enormously with international animal rescue efforts.

WHY VOLUNTEER WITH AN INTERNATIONAL ANIMAL RESCUE CHARITY?

According to PDSA, nearly half of UK adults own a pet. If you have a pet at home, you'll know you love your pet just as much as any other family member, whether you have a bouncy puppy or a lap-loving cat.  

Not all animals are so lucky though. Around the world, there are many domesticated animals without safe homes, while others are mistreated and abused by their owners. There are also lots of species in danger of extinction for a wide variety of reasons. In most cases, the fault can be traced back to us humans. This is why international animal rescue is so rewarding; it offers you the chance to give something back to the planet.   

HOW TO HELP INTERNATIONAL ANIMAL RESCUE CHARITIES

Volunteer With A Rescue Charity 

Whether you're looking for Romanian dog rescue UK opportunities or you have another country in mind, volunteering for a rescue charity is one of the best ways you can help. There are lots of charities that are based in the UK and bring dogs over here to be rehomed with loving families. Once the animals arrive on these shores, they're kept in rescue centres before they move on. As well as taking care of the animals, you could get involved with everything from home checks to transporting, fundraising and social media efforts to raise awareness.  

Adopt An Animal 

International animal rescue charities are always looking for foster homes to place the dogs and cats that come into their care. Adopting a new pet is never something you should take lightly, but it's a wonderful thing to give a home to an animal who really needs one.  

Donate Food And Toys

If you're unable to volunteer or take an animal on yourself, there are still ways you can help rescue centres. One of these is to donate food and toys so the hungry mouths remain fed and inquisitive minds can stay active.  

Sponsor An Animal 

Charities committed to saving suffering animals around the world, such as International Animal Rescue and WWF-UK, offer adoption schemes where you can sponsor all kinds of fascinating and exotic animals. Whether it's an orangutan or a bear you opt for, you'll usually get lots of goodies in your adoption pack, and regular updates so that you know how they're doing.  

Support Greek Animal Rescue 

The UK-based charity Greek Animal Rescue has a range of fundraising initiatives allowing you to support their cause. From buying calendars and greetings cards to donating broken jewellery and even unwanted cars, you can help Greek animal rescue efforts for abused, neglected, stray and injured animals. Whether it's finding a home for a street dog, supporting a shelter or rescuing donkeys subjected to horrific abuse, your support really can make a difference.  

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU VOLUNTEER

• Some volunteering roles might not even require you to leave the house, if they're based around computer skills and things like social media. This can be great if you don't have much time to spare, or have mobility problems.  
• You'll need to be at least 16 to volunteer with most charities, but it can still be possible for younger people to help out with signed consent from a parent or guardian.  

HELPING DESERVING CAUSES

If you'd like to know more about getting involved in volunteering in your community, take a look at our Local Causes page and find opportunities near you.