Behind every kennel door, there’s a story like Leo’s

Some shelter animals spend thousands of days waiting for someone to choose them.

This week is National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week, a time to honor the dogs and cats who depend on shelters for their chance at life — and the people who care for them. 

Behind every kennel door is a story waiting to be heard, like Leo’s. 

After being surrendered by his owner, he spent over 2,000 days in a Tennessee shelter, watching others leave for new homes while his turn never came.

His story reminds us that shelters are filled with animals holding on to hope.

A moment of kindness can change how a frightened dog sees the world.

Here are five ways each of us can help make a difference for the animals still waiting in shelters during National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week:

1. Visit a shelter and spend time with the animals

Sit beside a dog who hides at the back of his kennel. 

Let him feel a gentle hand and know he matters. 

Ask the staff what help they need most and offer what you can. 

A few minutes of kindness can calm a heart that has waited far too long.

Sometimes, all it takes is one post to help them be seen.

2. Share stories of animals still waiting

When you share a shelter animal’s story online, you give that animal a voice. 

Someone might see your post and decide to adopt or volunteer. 

Shelter workers often say a single share can change a life. 

A small action on your part can open a door for them.

Every donated blanket or meal lightens the load for shelter staff.

3. Support shelters with what they need

Crowded shelters run short of supplies, time, and space. 

Donating food, blankets, or volunteer hours keeps animals safe and comfortable. 

Every bit of help gives staff more time to focus on saving lives. 

Your contribution, no matter the size, makes a difference.

The quiet ones often wait the longest — but sometimes love the deepest.

4. Encourage adoption of dogs and cats that are often overlooked

Older dogs and shy cats are passed by while younger ones go home first. 

These animals still have love to give if someone will see beyond their age or scars. 

Talking about them helps others understand that adoption is about compassion, not perfection. 

Helping one of them find a home changes both lives forever.

Most animals in shelters are brought in from the streets.

5. Help end the crisis that fills their kennels

The most powerful way to appreciate a shelter is to help stop the endless flow of animals that overwhelms them.

The world's 600 million stray dogs and 87 million stray cats give birth to over 1 billion homeless puppies and kittens every year. 

Tragically, those who survive, also reproduce and give birth to another generation of homeless strays - thus repeating the cycle of suffering, every year. 

You can help prevent the next litter of puppies from being born into homelessness and ending up in shelters, starting at just $5 a month.

Yes, I’ll Help End the Suffering

Thank you for caring and for helping animals.

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Source:

[1] Newsweek