(continued from page 5) Photo courtesy of A.E.R.O.
Those who want to bring a few friends along are encouraged to contact sally@boxesofbasics.org to coordinate a group volunteer date. Companies can support by hosting a donation drive, for which a digital toolkit is available at their website.
Advocates for Abused and Abandoned Pets Each year, approximately 6.3 million dogs and cats are surrendered to shelters while countless others are left homeless. But rehousing an abandoned pet into their forever home involves more than simply finding a willing adopter. Advocates for Abused and Abandoned Pets (A3P), based in Dumfries, acts on behalf of each animal’s best interests every step of the way. “While adoptions are our primary goal, it's much more than placing a pet in a home,” said Sherry Turner, Director. “We take the time to screen applications, engage in telephone conversations, and conduct meetings with prospective adopters. Since ‘pets are for life’, investing extra time up front can save a pet from being returned.” The organization provides services beyond adoption, ensuring pets can thrive in their families whether they’re well-acquainted or just settling in. They welcome inquiries for advice from owners and offer low-cost dog training fronted by AKC-certified trainers. Recently, they established a scholarship program for student volunteers and expanded upon their community pet pantry to create their “Hug Sacks” program. “A couple times during the year we will put together backpacks with items for pets of displaced persons,” explained Turner. “For example, winter sacks include food, treats, a blanket and a toy for dogs or cats, and a beanie, gloves, scarf and socks for the owner.” The organization is driven by a deep commitment to creating and cultivating pet-owner bonds. “Doing whatever it takes to keep owners and pets together is what rescue should be about, keeping as many pets as possible out of shelters and rescues by listening, educating, assisting and understanding without judgement,” said Turner. Unfortunately, the number of pets that can benefit from A3P is limited to their capacity — which is currently the organization’s greatest need. “Our organization simply cannot help more pets without fosters,” said Turner. “We encourage anyone who can, and is committed to help, not to wait. Pets are in need all the time.” In addition to fosters, A3P is in need of volunteers to help with events, fundraising and fulfilling board member positions including Secretary, Events Coordinator, and Volunteer/Foster Coordinator. Interested persons can reach out at a3pdirector@ gmail.com.
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December 2022 prince william living
AERO rescues and rehabilitates squirrels and other Virginia wildlife.
The Animal Education and Rescue Organization Companion animals aren’t the only ones in need of support. The Animal Education and Rescue Organization (A.E.R.O) attends to sick, injured, and orphaned native Virginia wildlife through rescue, rehabilitation, and public outreach. In 2021, they served over 1,000 wild animals — a number that is expected to grow in the coming years. The organization’s wildlife advocacy efforts extend to the digital environment as well, via aeroanimalrescue.org. The platform features posts covering topics such as what to do when there’s a turtle in the road or how to tell if a fawn is in need of care. Through sharing the proper protocols for a variety of wildlife encounters, A.E.R.O. is fostering a community more attuned to the welfare and protection of its non-human members. A.E.R.O is in a period of growth and is anticipating the launch of their fox program and release programs. Currently, their greatest need is in direct support of rescue and rehabilitation efforts. “We are a close knit group of animal lovers, and would love to have more people involved in the rescue, rehabilitation and release of our sick, injured and orphaned wildlife,” said founder and CEO Olivia Lobalbo. While the organization seeks to expand their group of licensed wildlife rehabilitators, Lobalbo cautions that the process is lengthy and often emotionally difficult. Luckily, there are plenty of other volunteer opportunities immediately available in support of fundraising and program services. Those who want to support the mission but are unable to invest their time are encouraged to consider donating goods or financial contributions at aeroanimalrescue.org/howtohelp.