Volunteer Action Day is April 18

You can make a difference in a homeless pet's life by taking part in the People Saving Pets Volunteer Action Day on Wednesday, April 18.

Volunteer Action Day is a day designated by PetSmartCharities during National Volunteer Week (April 15-21) to focus on helping homeless pets - by educating the public about the need for volunteers and mobilizing pet lovers to lend a hand to their local animal welfare organizations.

Of the 750 local animal welfare organizations that were polled by PetSmart Charities in 2011, 97 percent said they rely on volunteers to help keep administrative costs down year-round. Volunteers free up funds to care for adoptable pets, such as providing low-cost, high-quality spay/neuter surgeries, vaccinations, food and shelter.

The survey also showed where these organizations have the greatest need for volunteers. Forty percent said their greatest need was foster care for pets, and 28 percent said they needed assistance with general pet care, including brushing, bathing and walking pets.

How to Get Involved

Anyone can get involved in Volunteer Action Day - whether you are ready to foster a pet or simply want to spend some play time with cats and dogs in your local shelter.

1. Visit www.PeopleSavingPets.org and click on the Volunteer Network page.
2. Enter your ZIP code to find volunteer opportunities near you.
3. Register to sign up for an opportunity.
4. Tell your friends and followers on Facebook and Twitter about Volunteer Action Day and how they, too, can help save the lives of homeless pets by volunteering.

Download the free Volunteer Action Day Infographics online and post it on blogs, Facebook and Twitter to help spread the word about the benefits of volunteering for local animal welfare organizations.

"Volunteers make a huge difference in helping local animal shelters and rescue agencies stretch their limited resources further to care for and adopt more pets," said Susana Della Maddalena, executive director of PetSmart Charities, Inc. 

"Volunteer Action Day is meant to spark year-long involvement in the movement to save homeless pets. Volunteering for just a few hours a month can make a significant difference in the well-being of adoptable pets."

You can share your volunteer stories and stay up-to-date on the latest Volunteer Action Day news by visiting the People Saving Pets Facebook and Twitter pages.