How You Can Help an Animal Shelter Right Now in the Hudson Valley

If you’ve recently lost a beloved pet or can’t currently welcome an animal into your home but still feel the pull to help, you’re not alone. Fortunately, there are countless ways to make a difference in the lives of shelter pets—without adopting. Whether it’s donating supplies, volunteering your time, or simply spreading the word, your support can go a long way.

Dutchess County SPCA in Urgent Need of Blankets

This week, the Dutchess County SPCA put out a request on Facebook for blanket donations. These may seem like a simple item, but to a shelter pet, a cozy blanket offers comfort, warmth, and a sense of safety. Just like your own pets enjoy snuggling up on the couch, these animals treasure a soft space to rest while they wait for their forever homes.

As you clean out your linen closet this summer, keep this in mind. Instead of tossing out older blankets, consider donating them. Worn or lightly used blankets can have a second life—bringing warmth and care to a dog or cat in need.

Additional Items You Can Donate

Blankets aren’t the only thing shelters need. If you’re not local to Dutchess County, nearly every animal shelter or rescue organization in the Hudson Valley will gladly accept:

Pet food (dry or canned)
Food and water bowls
Leashes, collars, and harnesses
Towels and bedding
Toys and grooming supplies
Cleaning products (non-toxic)

Donating even a few small items can make a significant difference in a shelter’s ability to care for their animals.

Give the Gift of Your Time

If you’re looking for a hands-on way to help, volunteering is one of the most impactful things you can do. Shelters often need help walking dogs, playing with cats, cleaning enclosures, or simply providing animals with much-needed social interaction. In return, you’ll enjoy the unconditional love of animals—and maybe even get a few sloppy kisses.

Check out local organizations such as:

CARE of DC
Hudson Valley SPCA (New Windsor, Orange County)
Ulster County SPCA
Pets Alive (Middletown)

These shelters often post volunteer opportunities and host regular adoption events that you can support.

Support Through Events and Shopping

Adoption Events: Attend or promote adoption events hosted at local wineries, breweries, or pet stores. These events help animals get exposure to potential adopters.
Amazon Wish Lists: Many shelters, like the Hudson Valley SPCA, maintain an Amazon Wish List with much-needed items. A few clicks can deliver supplies straight to their doors.
Shelter Thrift Shops: Some shelters run thrift stores to raise funds. Donate gently used items or go shopping—your purchase supports the shelter’s operations.

A Small Act, A Big Impact

Whether you’re donating a blanket, volunteering on weekends, or picking up a few extra cans of food during your next grocery run, your actions matter. You may not be ready to adopt, but you can still be a hero to an animal in need.

And who knows—after a few visits or hours spent volunteering, you might just meet the furry friend who changes your mind.

For more info, visit your local shelter’s website or follow them on social media to stay up to date on current needs.