DIY Toys You Can Make For Shelter Pets

Did you get your furry companion from a shelter? Many of you will likely answer yes to that question. We think that every creature deserves a second chance, and it makes us happy to see pets being given that opportunity. Shelters actually meet an important demand in the field of animal care. Their mission isn’t done yet, but they’ve helped millions of homeless pets find loving homes. Shelters rely heavily on donations and assistance from their local communities to keep their doors open and keep helping homeless pets. If you’re an animal lover, you may be wondering if there is anything you can do to assist. Donations are, of course, always a great option, but they aren’t the only ones. Another thing you can do? Create items for their adorable charges! Continue reading as a veterinarian from Lexington, VA discusses some items you can make for your local shelter.

What Is The Importance Of Shelter Crafts?

Shelters continually demand basic supplies like food, litter, and towels. These basics are frequently at the top of their wish lists. However, they may use comfort items for their cherished dogs. Many of these products, including beds and toys, can be simply made at home. This is an excellent way to repurpose goods that you no longer want to use, such as a pair of jeans that no longer fit or an old t-shirt with a hole or stain. These are fantastic crafts for children.

Handmade Presents For Shelter Dogs

Toys significantly impact Fido’s mental and emotional well-being. They may actually bring comfort and reassurance to shelter dogs. They also engage the puppies and offer mental stimulation. Plus, they just help keep Fido from getting bored! 

Here are a few choices:

Bedding

Shelters commonly need beds. There are several methods for creating these. The most straightforward technique is to cut two blankets to the same proportions. Assemble them with the outsides facing inside and sew the openings closed, leaving only a little hole. Fill it with soft, pet-safe filling. If you want to take it a step further, you might add another layer of material to increase the thickness between the top and bottom.

Another option is to upcycle a sweater. The first step is to sew the torso into an O shape. Leave the neck open and sew the waist closed. Next, attach the arms to the body. Make sure the arms meet at the bottom; remember this when you fold and pin. ew the wrist openings closed andUse the neck opening to fill the bed, then seal it tight. Done!

Rope Pull

Cut an old t-shirt or towel into thin pieces. Use various colors of clothing to make it look good. Man’s Best Friend does not care about the appearance of his toy and is unconcerned with color coordination, but it won’t hurt to make things look nice.

After sorting the strips, begin braiding them together. Next, interweave those braids. When you’ve reached the proper thickness, tie it with a large knot.

You can experiment with different shapes, such as circles, or with ingredients like sweet potato jerky or tennis balls. Just make sure to keep the toys safe. Ask your Lexington, VA vet for more information.

Things You Can Make For Kitties

We may laugh about Fluffy’s privileged lifestyle, but cats are actually fairly easy to please. Although every kitty has different preferences, there are a few things that our feline friends almost always adore.

Here are a few alternative solutions:

Kitty Tents And Teepees

Cats feel safer in confined, enclosed spaces by nature. This makes complete sense. Fluffy plays a dual role as predator and prey in the wild, so she is always on the lookout for any threats. Our feline pals understandably feel most secure knowing that nothing can creep up behind them. Compact areas allow our beloved cats to relax, which is their favorite pastime. them.

An old tee shirt and some hangers can be transformed into a comfortable tent for your pet. Teepee-style tents require a little more effort, but they are still rather simple to set up.

Catnip Mice

If we asked our feline companions about their favorite toys, catnip mice would most likely be at or near the top of the list. This project can be made with almost any type of cloth or scrap. They are also inexpensive. Catnip is reasonably priced when purchased in bulk, and it becomes even more affordable if you opt to grow it yourself.

Making the mouse is fairly simple. In fact, they do not even have to be mice. Floppy doesn’t care about the shape of her toys!

Begin by cutting two pieces of fabric into identical shapes. Place them one on top of the other, with the outside edges facing each other. Next, sew the edges closed. You need to leave a small hole. Once finished, turn it right-side out and fill it with catnip via the opening you left. Once it is fully filled, close the opening.

If you want to make a lot of them, consider using a cookie cutter to define the forms. You can also make an outline with cardboard.

Cardboard Boxes

It is well known that Fluffy loves boxes. Box castles will always thrill our feline buddies. Feel free to make these in any way you like, whether simple or intricate! You might need to add more cardboard to ensure it’s sturdy enough.

Cat Towers

Cat towers are valuable to cats because they serve numerous purposes. They provide our feline pals with nice napping locations as well as a place to sharpen their claws. Kittens also get exercise by climbing up and down (and, of course, sometimes hanging upside down from the higher levels.) 

There are various ways to make these, including utilizing an old stepladder or shelf. For those who are crafty and dedicated, one can be made from a live tree, wood, or PVC pipe.

First, ensure that there are no sharp edges or splinters present. Next, use smooth planks to make nice lounging spaces for your cat. Wrap the entire building in carpet or sisal rope.

Guidelines For Donating Handmade Items To Shelters

Each shelter has its own wishlist and policies. Always contact them before donating or producing things. You don’t want to find out at the last minute that the thing you were going to bring isn’t allowed!

Also, avoid providing anything that could be dangerous. Items with little pieces or sharp edges are not appropriate, nor are those coated in varnish, glitter, or dye. Ropes and strings can also constitute a safety risk. For further information, consult your veterinarian in Lexington, VA.

Remember that there are other ways to support shelters besides crafts. Financial donations are always very beneficial. Your shelter may require more food, medicine, litter, or litter boxes than toys.

Another option to consider is volunteering or fostering. These can be rewarding and meaningful ways to make a difference.

Book An Appointment At Our Lexington, VA Animal Clinic

Is your pet in need of an appointment, immunizations, or parasite treatment? Don’t hesitate to contact us at any moment. As your local pet hospital in Lexington, VA, we are always happy to help you.