Another Way to Help the Animals (long)

As many of you now, I sew blankets for dogs and cats awaiting adoption at more than a dozen rescues. I also make them fleece tug toys, squeaky toys and cat nip bags with the help of so many wonderful people here on this board. Thank You, Thank You, Thank You!!

I am often asked how they can help animals, well if you don't have the time to make them blankets, there is another way you can help animals in your area. Most rescues and shelters will be having parties, picnics and other get togethers in the coming months and need raffle or auction items donated to them. Generally, they don't always need to be pet related. Theme baskets, gift certificates and other items are always welcomed to raise funds to care for the animals they receive. Theme baskets are always fun to put together. I make lots of "Dog Treat Baking Baskets" for the rescues I work with and people love them. I'm a clearance junkie and collect items all year long to put together like the pro sports teams in your area, Nascar, golf, fishing, bath stuff, movie night and etc. Just about anything goes. Just use your imagination. Many of them also have fundraising garage sales and need items to sell. This is a great way to move unwanted things out of your home and help at the same time. It's very easy to locate needy rescues in your area, just go to

At the top click on the "Rescues and Shelters" button, enter your zipcode and all the rescues in your state will come up. Check out their websites and check on their upcoming events or email them and ask what they have planned and what they need. Other then the warm feeling you receive from helping out, there is another reward. Most rescues are 501c3 charties, which means you can deduct the expense of the item. Thanks for helping animals in need. Jill

Critter Comforts: Quilts for Homeless Animals