ANIMAL/PET CAUSES

1. Animal Rescue League of Berks County (ARL)

Established in 1952, the ARL has given many thousands of animals new leases on life. And not just cats and dogs – the organization also offers farm animals, birds, reptiles and amphibians for adoption. Popular fundraising events include the Pet Portrait FUNraiser and Mingle at the Museum, a garden-themed celebration held at Reading Public Museum that raises money for homeless animals. 610.373.8830 | berksarl.org

2. Grey Muzzle Manor

“The place that love built” utilizes a symbiotic model. It offers animal- and equine-assisted therapy, which benefits struggling individuals who interact with the four-legged friends, while simultaneously providing sanctuary and hospice care for senior animals to keep them out of shelters. Farm visits are available. 610.655.5271 greymuzzlemanor.com

3. Humane Pennsylvania

To help improve animal welfare, Humane Pennsylvania believes in focusing on people, and their capacity to care for animals. The organization, which has campuses in Reading and Lancaster, tackles its mission through adoption centers, emergency animal rescue services, a pet-food pantry, a charitable foundation and three signature annual fundraisers: Walk for the Animals, Pints for Pups and Art for Arf’s Sake. 610.921.2348 | humanepa.org

4. One by One Cat

Rescue

For nearly 30 years, this no-kill local cat rescue has helped abandoned, stray and rescued cats, providing shelter and foster care, and coordinating adoptions with families in Berks, Lancaster, Lebanon, Lehigh and Montgomery counties. A few of the organization’s adoptable cats and kittens are available at PetSmart in Wyomissing. 1by1catrescue.org

5. Shady Hollow Assisted Riding

Residing on a working farm in Birdsboro, this equine-focused nonprofit believes in the power of interacting with horses. It’s right there in its web address, which urges visitors to hug a horse. Shady Hollow, open to people of all ages and abilities, aims to empower those with special needs. Offerings include assisted riding, day camps, birthday and party rental packages, and community service opportunities. 484.925.2080 | hugahorse.com