Have you adopted a pet from a shelter? Many of you would probably say yes to that question. We believe that every animal deserves a second chance and are always pleased to see pets getting loving homes. Shelters fill a significant void in the realm of animal welfare. While there is definitely still space for improvement and there is lots more work to be done, they have helped millions of homeless dogs find loving homes. Shelters rely largely on donations and support from their communities. What can you do to help? Make items for their furry companions! Continue reading as a local Cedar City, UT veterinarian suggests a few items you can make for your local shelter.

Why Do Shelters Need Crafts?

Shelters are constantly in need of a few items. Basic items such as food, litter, and towels are typically at the top of their wish lists. However, they can also use comfort goods. A lot of things can be made easily at home. This is an awesome way to upcycle items you won’t be using anymore, such as a pair of pants that no longer fit or a tee shirt with a hole in the middle.

Cat-related DIY projects

While each cat has their own distinct preferences, there are a few things that are practically universally liked.

Here are some ‘pawsible’ options:

Catnip Mice

If we could ask our feline friends what their favorite toys are, catnip mice would likely be at (or near) the top of the list. This is a very simple one because you can use practically any type of fabric remnant. Purchasing catnip in bulk is often very cost-effective. It’s even cheaper if you cultivate your own.

Making the mouse is quite straightforward. Actually, they do not have to be mice. Fluffy is not interested in what shape her toys are!

Start by cutting two pieces of fabric into the same form. Stack them so that the outsides face each other. Next, stitch the edges shut. You want to leave a tiny hole. When you’re done, turn it right side out and fill it with catnip via the hole you left. When the hole is adequately packed, sew it up. Voila! 

If you want to create a lot of them, use a cookie cutter to outline the shapes. You can also create a cardboard outline.

Cat Towers

Cat towers are ideal for kitties since they serve multiple uses. They provide napping spots for our feline friends as well as a space for them to do their nails. Kitties receive some exercise climbing up and down. Plus, they often feel safer in high locations.

There are several ways to produce these. You can repurpose an old bookcase or stepladder. If you’re creative and adventurous, you can create one from a real tree, lumber, or PVC pipe.

Check for sharp edges and splinters. Then, lay smooth planks to create kitty lounging areas. Wrap the entire thing in carpet or sisal rope. Voila!

Cardboard Box Castles

We all know that our feline companions adore boxes. Box castles are almost always popular with our feline friends. You can make these as simple or intricate as you like! You might have to reinforce it with more cardboard to ensure it is strong enough.

Homemade Gifts for Shelter Dogs

Toys are essential for Fido’s mental and emotional well-being. They can also significantly help calm and relax shelter pets.

Here are a few choices:

Rope Pull

For this one, cut an old T-shirt or towel into thin strips. If you want to make it look good, use different-colored ones.

Once you’ve separated the strips, begin braiding them together. Next, braid the braids together. When it’s the desired thickness, tie it off in a large knot.

There are some variants to this, such as making them into circles or weaving in sweet potato jerky chunks. Another approach is to insert a tennis ball. Just stick with safe objects.

Bedding

Beds are also in high demand in shelters. There are several ways to make these as well. The simplest solution is to cut two blankets to the same size. As with the catnip mouse, place them together with the outsides facing in and sew the gaps together, leaving a little hole. Fill it with soft, safe stuffing. If you want to be a little more detailed, you can add another piece of material to increase the thickness between the top and bottom.

An alternative is to upcycle a sweater. Begin by stitching the torso into an O shape. Keep the neck open, but sew the waist up. Next, seal the wrist openings and attach the arms to the body. You want them to meet at the bottom, so keep that in mind as you fold and pin. Stuff the bedding into the neck hole, then seal it.

Don’t forget about those little furballs! Shelters also receive a lot of smaller animals.

Toys For Smaller Animals

Shelters also have lots of smaller animals, like rabbits and guinea pigs. There are also some easy things you can do to help them out, even if you don’t have (or want) one of your own. 

Toys, especially chew toys, are essential for these pets.

Here are some alternatives for the little ones:

Pet Tents

Guinea pigs enjoy snuggling up in Cozies, which are essentially miniature tent beds. You can construct one using an old T-shirt or baby blanket and a few wire hangers or pipe cleaners.

Cardboard

Toilet paper or paper towel roll tubes can be repurposed as toys. There are several things you can do with them. One method is to cut them into rings and then reassemble them into small balls. You might alternatively stuff them with plain paper.

Just be careful with the glue on these. For more information, contact your veterinarian or the animal shelter.

Boxes

Here’s a simple idea: make a miniature fortress for your tiny furball out of tissue boxes or shoeboxes. Remember to remove any staples!

Tips For Donating Crafted Goods To Animal Shelters

Each shelter has its own specific wish list and policies. Always seek out before donating or manufacturing items. You don’t want to find out at the last minute that they won’t take the thing you planned to bring!

Remember that crafts aren’t the only way to help shelters out. Financial donations generally prove highly beneficial. Your shelter may require more food, medicine, litter, or litter boxes than toys.

Another way you can help? Consider volunteering or fostering. This can be a rewarding and meaningful method to truly make a difference. You may actually find this very rewarding. Helping animals really is very fulfilling! 

Finally, avoid offering something potentially hazardous. Anything with little bits or sharp edges is prohibited, as are goods coated in lacquer, glitter, or dye. Items including ropes or cords are also dangerous. Contact your Cedar City, UT veterinarian for further information.

Book An Appointment At Our Cedar City, UT Animal Clinic

Is your pet due for an appointment, vaccinations, or parasite control? Please feel free to contact us at any time. As your local Cedar City, UT pet hospital, we are dedicated to providing top-notch care.