The Most Awesome Ways to Help Pups This Holiday

We’re big champions of supporting pups in need all year round. But during the holidays, we look for extra special ways we can give back to the greater canine community. As part of our commitment, we’re donating $1 in food to one of our favorite rescue organizations, Mr. Bones & Co, for every photo that’s shared with #thankfulformydog and #myollie. Beyond that, we rounded up some thoughtful ways you can help make a difference to dogs—and get all the warm and fuzzy feels.

Fulfill Shelter Wish Lists

Most shelters have wish lists with toys, pet care supplies and grooming products that they are in need of—look up one near you to play Santa for some less fortunate pups. The Animal Humane Society even has a wish list posted on Amazon (hello, cyber Monday deals!) making it easier than ever to donate to dogs in need. Feeling crafty? Make a DIY toy like this chewable Christmas tree and bring it to your local shelter.

Become a Foster Dog Parent
We’re all for adoption, but it’s a big decision! Dip a paw in the process by fostering a pet instead. It’s a super important part of helping rescue dogs recover and providing them with a happy place to live until they find their forever home. You can volunteer to foster through an organization like the ASPCA, contact your local shelter to see if it’s an option, or do it through groups like Dogs on Deployment, which connects you with soldiers who are deployed and can’t be with their dogs over the holiday season.

Volunteer Your Time

There are all sorts of ways you can volunteer with pups—search the ASPCA, SPCA and American Humane sites to learn about opportunities in your community, from being an advocacy volunteer to sponsoring a kennel. You can help support a non-profit like Dogs for the Deaf by participating in their events. Even simply volunteering to take a dog for a walk can make a real difference—you can sign up through organizations like Wag.

Donate or buy gifts that give back

Of course, donations are always welcome at the national and local level—through a group like the International Fund for Animal Welfare, you can specifically give money that will go towards deworming puppies or medical treatment. While you’ve got out your wallet for holiday shopping, buy from companies that donate a portion of their profits to pups in need—like Rescue Chocolate, which donates to animal rescue organizations when you purchase their organic vegan bars, and Found My Animal, which donates 10% of their proceeds to animal adoption and rescue charities through purchase of their chic leashes and collars.

The Ollie blog is devoted to helping pet parents lead healthier lives with their pups. If you want to learn more about our fresh, human-grade food, check out MyOllie.com.