Love Animals? Here’s How to Help Long Island’s Animal Shelters & Rescues


Long Island might be renowned for its beautiful beaches, bagel obsession, and award-winning wines, but few realize it is home to thousands of animals in crisis. Tens of thousands of dogs, cats, and other pets are abandoned, brought in, or rescued for neglect each year. Whether you're a full-fledged animal lover or just someone interested in helping out, there are many ways to get engaged with shelters and rescues in the area—no dozen cat adoptions necessary (though, of course, if you're so inclined).


The Status of Animal Welfare in Long Island


Despite growing awareness about adoption, **Long Island shelters are still full**. Recent data show **over 30,000 animals pour into New York’s shelters annually**, with many coming in from Nassau and Suffolk counties. Higher costs for maintaining pets, zoning laws, and unexpected life changes make owners relinquish their pets, which becomes a burden for shelters in the area. The bright side? More people than ever are looking to help out—through donations, volunteering, or foster care.


Long Island Top Animal Shelters & Rescues


1. North Shore Animal League America (Port Washington)

As the **largest no-kill rescue and adoption organization in the world**North Shore Animal League America has rescued over 1.1 million animals since its start. The massive operation rescues pets in overcrowded shelters and disaster zones across the country.

📍 Visit: North Shore Animal League



2. Last Hope Animal Rescue (Wantagh)

This rescue is focused specifically on the rehabilitation and rehoming of abandoned dogs and cats, including those with medical conditions. They also have a successful **feral cat TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return) program** to manage the population of Long Island strays.


📍 Visit: Last Hope Animal Rescue


3. Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter (Wantagh)

This is one of the largest municipal shelters in the country, with **hundreds of homeless pets coming through the doors each year**, many of which are looking for their forever families.

📍 Visit: Hempstead Animal Shelter

4. Bideawee (Westhampton & Wantagh)

More than **100 years of experience**Bideawee is Long Island’s oldest and most established shelter. They provide **medical treatment, training, and long-term care for pets in special need of extra care and loving attention.**

📍 Visit: Bideawee


5. Paws Unite People (Long Island-wide)

This volunteer-run non-profit organization deals with the rescue of special-needs animals, including those with medical or behavioral issues. They also assist owners in financial hardship in keeping their pets.

📍 Visit: Paws Unite People


Ways to Support Local Animal Shelters—Without Adopting

Donate Money or Materials

Not prepared to adopt a pet? Don't worry. Most shelters are in urgent need of **food, blankets, cleaning supplies, and medical care supplies**. Many have Amazon wish lists, too, so it is easy to give with the click of a button.

Volunteer Your Time

Even if you can't adopt, your time is just as valuable. Take a dog for a walk, play with a cat, help with kennel cleaning, or help with adoption events. A few hours at the shelter can be a big difference.

Temporarily Care for a Pet


If full-time ownership isn't a possibility, fostering is a great choice. **Rescues provide the costs**, such as food and medical care—love and temporary accommodation are the only things you'll be contributing.


Assistance with Transport & Events


There are many rescues which require volunteers to transport pets between shelters, to veterinary appointments, or to adoption events. All it takes is a little time and a vehicle, and you can be a lifesaver—literally.

Promote & Create Awareness

Even if you're unable to donate or volunteer, you can still be a difference-maker. Share your local rescues, share the message about adopting rather than buying from breeders, and invite friends to foster or adopt. --- **Last Word: Make a Difference for Long Island's Animals** The reality is, shelters and rescues need our help year-round. Whether it is through donations, foster care, volunteering, or just spreading the word online, **every little bit counts**. Thinking of relocating to a neighborhood with pets allowed? **Dean Miller** knows Long Island's most pet-friendly neighborhoods, best dog parks, and best towns with the finest pet-friendly homes. Let us guide you to the ideal home for you—and your future best friend.

📩 Email me at Dean@TheBeaconTeam.com

🌐 Explore family-friendly neighborhoods at www.TheBeaconTeam.com

📞 Call today to find a home where your family can grow, give, and thrive!