FAQ’s

Looking to make a difference in your community? Consider volunteering with a local animal rescue organization.

Not only will you be helping animals in need, but you’ll also be joining a community of like-minded individuals who are passionate about animal welfare. Volunteering with an animal rescue organization can be a rewarding experience that allows you to develop new skills, meet new people, and make a positive impact. Whether you are interested in walking dogs, socializing cats, or helping with administrative tasks, there is a role for everyone. So why not take the first step and get involved? Contact Compassionkind.org today to learn more aboutvolunteer opportunities in your area. You will be making a difference in the lives of animals and your community, and you may even find that volunteering brings joy and fulfillment to your own life as well. Compassion towards animals is an important aspect of being a responsible and caring individual. It involves recognizing the intrinsic value of animals and treating them with kindness and respect. Here are some ways to be compassionate towards animals:

1. Educate yourself: Learn about the needs and behaviors of different animals and their natural habitats. This can help you understand their perspective and provide them with appropriate care and treatment.

2. Treat animals with kindness: Treat animals with the same kindness and respect that you would show to other humans. Avoid using harsh language, and refrain from hitting or mistreating animals in any way.

3. Provide proper care: If you have pets, provide them with proper care, including adequate food, water, shelter, and exercise. Take them to the vet regularly and ensure that they are up-to-date on vaccinations.

4. Support animal-friendly initiatives: Support organizations that work towards animal welfare and conservation. You can donate money, volunteer your time, or simply spread awareness about these issues.

5. Avoid products that harm animals: Avoid buying products that are made from animal parts or are tested on animals. Look for cruelty-free and vegan options instead.

6. Be mindful of your impact on the environment: Many animals are affected by human activities such as pollution and habitat destruction. Take steps to reduce your environmental impact, such as using reusable products, conserving water, and reducing your carbon footprint.

By being compassionate towards animals, we can create a better world for all living beings.

Are you looking for a way to make a positive impact on an animal’s life? Consider fostering a dog or cat!

Fostering provides a temporary home for animals in need, and it’s a great way to give back to your community

while enjoying the love and companionship of a furry friend. Whether you’re looking for a short-term commitment or a longer stay, our local rescue has a variety of animals in need of foster homes. By fostering, you can help socialize and prepare these animals for their forever homes, and you’ll gain a loyal companion in the process. Contact us today to learn more about fostering and make a difference in an animal’s life!

Looking for a way to make a meaningful difference in the lives of animals? Consider fostering! Fostering animals can be a rewarding and life-changing experience for both you and the animals you care for. Here are just a few reasons why you should consider becoming a foster parent:

1. You’ll save lives: Fostering animals gives them a second chance at life and can make all the difference in their journey to finding a forever home. By opening your home and your heart, you can help save the lives of animals in need.

2. It’s flexible: Fostering is a flexible and customizable way to give back. You can choose the types of animals you want to foster, the length of time you’re able to commit, and the level of care you’re comfortable providing. All supplies will be provided for the animal in your care.

3. You’ll make a difference: Fostering animals can be a transformative experience for both you and the animals you care for. You'll see firsthand the impact you're making on the lives of these animals and the joy and love they bring into your home.

4. It’s a learning experience: Fostering can provide a unique opportunity to learn more about animals and their behaviors. You’ll learn new skills and gain valuable experience that can help you better understand and care for the animals in your life.

5. It’s a way to give back: Fostering is a meaningful way to give back to your community and make a difference in the world. By providing temporary care for animals in need, you're helping to alleviate the burden on shelters who end up euthanizing innocent animals and rescue organizations trying to save them from death. You can help by making the world a better place for animals.

Socializing your newly adopted pet is an important part of helping them adjust to their new environment and become a well-adjusted and happy member of your family. Here are some ways to socialize your newly adopted pet:

1. Introduce them to new people: Introduce your pet to new people gradually, starting with people they know and trust and gradually expanding to include new people. Encourage your friends and family to interact with your new pet in a positive and gentle manner.

2. Take them on walks: Taking your pet on walks is a great way to socialize them and expose them to new sights, sounds, and smells. It’s also a great way to bond with your pet and get some exercise together.

3. Visit the dog park: If you have a dog, taking them to the dog park is a great way to socialize them with other dogs and allow them to burn off some energy. Be sure to supervise your pet closely and only take them to the dog park if they are comfortable and well-behaved around other dogs.

4. Attend training classes: Attending training classes with your pet is a great way to socialize them and help them learn new skills and behaviors. It’s also a great opportunity to bond with your pet and meet other pet owners.

5. Expose them to different environments: Exposing your pet to different environments, such as the beach, the park, or a pet-friendly store, can help them become more comfortable and confident in new situations.

6. Use positive reinforcement: Whenever your pet interacts positively with new people, animals, or environments, be sure to reward them with treats and praise. This will help reinforce good behavior and create positive associations with socializing.

Introducing an adopted pet to your current pets can be a delicate process, but with patience and care, it can be a successful one. Here are some tips to help you introduce your adopted pet to your current pets:

1. Take it slow: Introduce the pets slowly and gradually. Start by keeping them in separate rooms and gradually allow them to interact with one another under supervision. Let them get used to each others presence before allowing them to interact more closely.

2. Use scent swapping: Swap items such as blankets or toys between the pets so that they can get used to each others scent. This will help them become more familiar with each other before they actually meet.

3. Allow supervised interactions: When you feel that your pets are ready to meet face-to-face, introduce them while they are both on leashes or behind a baby gate. This will allow them to see and smell each other while still remaining physically separated. Gradually increase the amount of time they spend together, always supervising their interactions.

4. Reward positive interactions: Whenever the pets interact positively, reward them with treats and praise. This will help reinforce good behavior and create positive associations between the pets.

5. Be patient: Remember that it may take some time for your pets to become comfortable with each other. Be patient and continue to supervise their interactions until you are confident that they are safe together.

6. Seek professional help if necessary: If your pets are not getting along or if you are concerned about their interactions, seek professional help from a veterinarian or animal behaviorist. They can provide guidance and support to help your pets adjust to each other and become friends.

Adopting a pet from a shelter or rescue organization is not only a compassionate decision, but it can also be a very rewarding experience. When you adopt a pet, you are giving them a second chance at life and providing them with a loving home. Here are some reasons why you should consider adoption over shopping for a pet:

1. Save a life: By adopting a pet, you are saving a life and providing a home to an animal in need. Many animals end up in shelters due to circumstances beyond their control, and by adopting, you are giving them a second chance at a happy life.

2. Get a great companion: Adopted pets can make wonderful companions. Many shelter animals are already trained, socialized, and eager to please their new owners. They can bring joy, love, and laughter into your home.

3. Support a good cause: When you adopt a pet, you are supporting the efforts of animal shelters and rescue organizations. These organizations work tirelessly to provide care and protection to animals in need, and your adoption fee helps to fund their important work.

4. Avoid supporting puppy mills: Puppy mills are breeding facilities that prioritize profit over the well-being of animals. By adopting a pet, you are avoiding the support of these unethical businesses.

5. Save money: Adoption fees are typically much lower than the cost of purchasing a pet from a breeder or pet store. Additionally, many shelters and rescue organizations provide basic veterinary care, such as spaying or neutering and vaccinations, which can save you money in the long run.

Adopting a pet is a responsible and rewarding decision that can bring joy and companionship to your life while also making a positive impact on the lives of animals in need.

Congratulations on your new furry friend!

The first few days with a newly adopted pet can be both exciting and challenging as you and your pet get to know each other and adjust to your new life together. Here are some things to keep in mind during the first three days:

- Give your pet space: Your new pet might feel overwhelmed by their new surroundings and may need some time to adjust. Give them a quiet, comfortable space to retreat to if they need it.

- Stick to a routine: Establishing a routine early on can help your pet feel more comfortable and settle in more quickly. This includes feeding, walking, and playtime.

- Start training: Begin training your pet early on to establish good habits and boundaries. This will help prevent problem behaviors down the line.

After the first few days, you and your pet will likely start to settle into a routine. Here are some tips for the first three weeks:

- Continue training: Consistency is key when it comes to training your pet. Keep reinforcing good habits and working on any problem behaviors.

- Socialization: If your pet is comfortable, start introducing them to new people and animals. This can help them become more confident and well-adjusted.

- Follow up with the vet: Make sure your pet has had a check-up with a veterinarian and is up-to-date on all necessary vaccinations.

By the end of the first three months, you and your pet should be well on your way to a happy life together. Here are some things to keep in mind during this time:

- Keep up with training: Training should be ongoing to reinforce good behavior and prevent bad habits from forming.

- Exercise: Make sure your pet is getting enough exercise to maintain their physical and mental health.

- Bonding: Spend quality time with your pet to continue strengthening your bond.

Remember, every pet is different and may adjust to their new home at their own pace. With patience, love, and consistency, you and your new pet will build a happy life together.

1. Research your pet: Before bringing your pet home, research their specific needs, including their diet, exercise requirements, and grooming needs. Understanding your pet’s needs will help you provide the best care possible.

2. Create a safe and comfortable environment: Make sure your home is safe and comfortable for your pet. This includes providing a comfortable bed, safe toys, and a designated potty area for dogs and cats.

3. Establish a routine: Establishing a routine can help your pet feel secure and comfortable in their new home. This includes feeding, exercise, and playtime schedules.

4. Socialize your pet: Socializing your pet is important for their mental and emotional well-being. This includes exposing them to different people, animals, and environments.

5. Provide regular veterinary care: Regular veterinary care is essential for your pet’s health. Schedule routine check-ups and vaccinations, and be sure to address any health concerns as soon as they arise.

6. Use positive reinforcement training: Positive reinforcement training is a humane and effective way to train your pet. This includes rewarding good behavior and ignoring or redirecting unwanted behavior.

7. Be patient and consistent: It takes time for pets to adjust to their new home, so be patient and consistent in your care and training. Consistency is key in establishing good habits and routines.

Remember that owning a pet is a long-term commitment. With proper care and attention, your new pet can bring joy and companionship into your life for years to come.

Breeding animals can have a number of negative impacts on their health, well-being, and overall quality of life.

Here are some of the negative impacts of breeding on animals:

1. Health problems: Breeding can lead to a range of health problems in animals, including genetic disorders, birth defects, and a higher risk of certain diseases. These health issues can be painful, debilitating, and costly

to treat.

2. Overpopulation: Breeding can contribute to the overpopulation of animals, which can lead to overcrowding in shelters and an increased risk of euthanasia for those who are unwanted or abandoned.

3. Behavioral issues: Breeding can also lead to behavioral issues in animals, such as aggression, anxiety, and fearfulness. These issues can be difficult to manage and can make it challenging for animals to find and maintain good homes.

4. Exploitation: Breeding can perpetuate the idea that animals are commodities to be bought and sold, rather than living beings deserving of respect and care. This can lead to exploitation of animals for profit, which can result in poor living conditions, mistreatment, and neglect.

5. Financial burden: Breeding can be expensive, and the costs of caring for and raising a litter of animals can quickly add up. This can be a significant financial burden for breeders, and can also lead to neglect or abandonment if they are unable to care for the animals properly.

Overall, breeding animals can have serious negative impacts on their health, well-being, and overall quality of life. It is important to carefully consider these impacts before engaging in breeding, and to explore alternative ways to support and care for animals, such as adoption, fostering, and volunteering at animal shelters and rescue organizations.

Breeding dogs and other animals may seem like a tempting prospect, but it’s important to consider the many ethical and practical issues involved. Here is an excerpt that discourages breeding:

Breeding animals is a complex and often risky undertaking that requires a great deal of knowledge, skill, and resources. Not only can it be expensive and time-consuming, but it can also have serious consequences for the animals involved. Breeding can lead to health problems, genetic defects, and behavioral issues, and it can contribute to the overpopulation of animals and the mistreatment of those who are unwanted or abandoned.

Moreover, breeding perpetuates the idea that animals are commodities to be bought and sold rather than living beings deserving of respect and care. For these reasons, it is important to think carefully before engaging in breeding and to consider alternative ways to support and care for animals, such as adoption, fostering, and volunteering at animal shelters and rescue organizations.

There are many human foods that can be harmful or even toxic to dogs and cats. Here are some common ones to avoid:

1. Chocolate: Chocolate contains a substance called theobromine, which can be toxic to dogs and cats. The darker the chocolate, the more concentrated the theobromine is, making it more dangerous. Symptoms of chocolate toxicity in pets can include vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, and even death.

2. Grapes and raisins: Grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure in dogs and cats. Even a small amount can be toxic, so it’s best to avoid feeding these foods to your pets.

3. Onions and garlic: Onions and garlic contain compounds that can damage red blood cells in dogs and cats, leading to anemia. These foods should be avoided in all forms, including raw, cooked, and powdered.

4. Avocado: Avocado contains a substance called persin, which can cause vomiting and diarrhea in dogs and cats. The pit and skin of the avocado can also be a choking hazard or cause intestinal blockages.

5. Alcohol: Even small amounts of alcohol can be toxic to pets, causing vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty breathing,and even death.

6. Caffeine: Caffeine can cause restlessness, rapid breathing, heart palpitations, and muscle tremors in dogs and cats. It’s best to keep all caffeinated products, including coffee, tea, and energy drinks, away from pets.

7. Xylitol: Xylitol is a sugar substitute that is commonly found in sugar-free gum, candy, and baked goods. It can cause a rapid insulin release, leading to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), seizures, and liver failure in dogs and cats.

It’s important to remember that this list is not comprehensive, and there may be other human foods that can be harmful to pets. If you suspect that your pet has ingested something toxic, contact your veterinarian or a pet poison control center immediately.

Waggle, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization, is dedicated to keeping companion animals and their families together. Waggle has already provided over $1M to the community of 1,000 veterinary hospitals to save 5,000-plus pets, who were at risk of falling victim to economic euthanasia. 

Here are but a few of Waggle success stories, all with happy endings: success stories

To add your pet to Waggle and get the support you need, add your pet here.