People often want to help their local animal shelter, but they might not know how. By making specific item requests to your supporters, you make it easier for donors to know what to give. And this also helps ensure that your shelter gets items that it really needs.

Here are some common items that shelters or rescues often request. We’ve added some sample social media copy to help you make the ask:

Basic Supplies:

• Food: Dry and canned cat and dog food.
• Litter: Clumping cat litter. Or wood pellets, if you use them.
• Cleaning Supplies: Liquid laundry detergent, fabric softener, disinfectant wipes, disinfectant spray, mop solution, vinegar, and dishwashing detergent.
• Water: Bottled water for staff and volunteers.

Sample Social Media Quote: “🐾 Our furry friends are in need! If you’re stopping by the store, consider picking up some extra pet food or cleaning supplies for our shelter. Every bit helps! #ShelterSupport #DonateToday”

Comfort Items:

• Bedding: Small fleece blankets, old blankets, old sheets, and linens.
• Toys: Cat and dog toys (it’s recommended that you only accept new).
• Towels: Used towels are acceptable, but they need to be clean.

Sample Social Media Quote: “🛏️ Comfort is key! Our animals would love some soft blankets or toys. If you have extras at home or want to buy new ones, we’d be so grateful! #ComfortForCritters #ShelterLife”

Specialized Animal Supplies:

• Newborn Care: Bottles and formula for newborn kittens and puppies. (Kitten Milk Replacer (KMR) and Puppy Milk Replacer)
• Medical Supplies: First aid kits, bandages, and antiseptics.

Sample Social Media Quote: “🍼 Got baby bottles or first aid supplies? Our youngest and most vulnerable residents could use your help! #KittenCare #ShelterNeeds”

Enrichment and Training:

• Interactive Toys: Puzzle feeders, treat-dispensing toys, and toys that stimulate the animals mentally.
• Training Tools: Clickers, treat pouches, and harnesses.

Sample Social Media Quote: “🧠 Mental stimulation is vital for our pets! Help them stay sharp and engaged with interactive toys or training tools. #BrainGames #TrainAndPlay”

Shelter Operations:

• Office Supplies: Pens, paper, clipboards, and other basic office items.
• Storage: Plastic bins and containers for storing food, toys, and other supplies.

Sample Social Media Quote: “📋 Running a shelter takes more than just love! If you have extra office supplies or storage bins, we could put them to good use. #BehindTheScenes #ShelterOperations”

Miscellaneous:

• Pet Carriers: For transporting animals. They can be used, but in good working order.
• Collars and Leashes: Various sizes for different animals.
• Grooming Supplies: Brushes, nail clippers, and shampoos.
• Pet Bowls: For food and water.
• Pet Beds: Various sizes for different animals.
• Old T-Shirts: Can be repurposed into toys or bedding.
• Pet-safe Cleaners: For cleaning cages and enclosures.

Sample Social Media Quote: “🐕 From leashes to pet beds, there’s so much that goes into caring for our animals. If you have items to spare, think of us! #EveryBitHelps #ShelterWishlist”

Items for Special Events:

• Craft Supplies: For making DIY toys or decorations for shelter events.
• Event Supplies: Flyers, banners, and other promotional materials for shelter events.

Sample Social Media Quote: “🎉 Event season is here! We’re prepping for our next big fundraiser and could use craft supplies or promotional materials. Help us make it a success! #ShelterEvents #CraftForACause”

Making a simple request can make all the difference. By requesting exactly what your shelter’s needs, you’ll end up with the supplies you need.

Not everyone can be a big donor. It helps to remind people that they can help in small ways, too.

Just make the ask. You’ll be surprised at the generosity of your community.

Or this one!

Visit the Image Library.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can shelters effectively distribute or manage surplus donations?
Shelters can create a surplus inventory management plan, which might include rotating stock, sharing with other shelters, or setting up community support programs for pet owners in need.

How can individuals or organizations coordinate with shelters to ensure their donations meet current needs?
Establishing clear communication channels with the community and regularly updating a needs list on your website or social media can help ensure donations meet current needs. Consider also having a point person for donation inquiries.

What are the best practices for sanitizing and preparing used items before donation?
For shelters receiving used items, developing and sharing a guideline for how these should be cleaned and prepared before they arrive can be helpful. This ensures that donations are immediately beneficial and reduces the workload on your staff to make items usable.