Read on Substack: https://open.substack.com/pub/thekindlife/p/home-for-the-holidays-dogs-would

Are you looking for a Christmas or holiday present for an animal lover? Since some backyard dogs don’t have appropriate “homes”/shelter, here’s a gift idea that animal lovers and dogs will appreciate. You can contribute, in the gift recipient’s honor, to a sturdy, insulated dog house that will be delivered to a backyard dog, providing warmth in the winter, protection from the elements, and shade in the summer.

Here’s the dog house link: http://bit.ly/4oCK8BN

Here’s a link to additional gifts helpful to backyard dogs: https://presents.peta.org/category/give-by-cause/doghouse/

The reasons why people tether their dogs 24/7 in all seasons vary—inherited family traditions normalizing it, lack of awareness of alternatives, landlord restrictions prohibiting indoor dogs, nonexistent or damaged fencing, and behavioral challenges/destructive indoor behavior. Sometimes, well-meaning people might not realize that these lonely backyard dogs can suffer. You can help via the links above or the ideas below.

Compassion in Action

• Build owner trust – Politely and by using friendly, non-accusatory language, offer help with supplies or walks. The owner is more likely to say yes to offers along the lines of: “I love dogs and have extra time/supplies, could I help with…?”

• Improve shelter and bedding – Add/upgrade a doghouse with walls, raised off the ground (wood pieces under four sides, reducing ground chill transfer), a door flap to block wind and rain, and straw for bedding and joint cushioning (not hay or cloth, which retain moisture and freeze).

• Ensure adequate water and food – Provide a tip-proof water bowl; donate quality food.

• Provide toys – Give the dog chew toys and balls to alleviate boredom.

• Watch for cruelty or neglect and report it – Document neglect (no water or shelter; skinny; an injury) and contact animal control or police department.

https://thekindlife.substack.com/p/home-for-the-holidays-dogs-would