Feeding the puppies?????

Hi Hollywoodrags! God bless you for taking these dogs in. In terms of your question, I recommend checking freecycle.org (it's a yahoo group that you can post to the list that you are seeking dog items to help with the dogs you've taken in). The website is all about recycling items. Also, you might try searching on www.craigslist.org for your city. Check the free section and also post to the wanted section. Other items, such as medications and treats/food can be bought online for less than what is sold in stores. I personally buy my dogs their heartworm medications at www.petcarerx.com (and I always use a coupon and it's free shipping so I save even more). If you need help finding a coupon code, let me know as I'd be happy to help. I hope this helps.

You deserve kudos...and help!

Get publicity!  Contact your local TV, radio and newspapers.  Get a human interest story going.  Let it be known you accept donations.

Contact churches and synagogues.  Ask if you can leave a container at their facility.

Ask local merchants if you can leave a change jar near their register.  Pennies add up quickly.

We suggest you speak with local supermarkets about placing a barrel at the door for food donations.  People are usually very good about helping. 

Put a container or barrel out in front of your farm, for people to drop off donations.

Talk to the vets in your area.  You may find one willing to work with you on the shots and medications. 

Have a tour or OPEN HOUSE of your farm...admission -  pet food donations.  Who knows, you may even find a loving home for one or two of your "guests."

Check the web for free pet food and free pet food samples.  Many pet food manufacturers offer free samples.  For example:

   http://www.talktothevet.com/FREE_PET_STUFF/

   http://www.freepetmedications.com/

Let it be known in your area you are accepting donations of open pet food...sometimes when a person's pet dies or they have to change food, they have an open bag of food left.  They would feel better about donating it, rather than throwing it away.

Let people know you are accepting UPC & lot codes.  Some pet food manufacturers will send you a free bag of food for X number of codes.

Get creative.  Get your community involved.  If people know you are helping to keep these animals out of the local shelter, they may be willing to help you.

Good luck!

I's suggest you contact local vets, at times they may be willing to make donations of food and or services to your cause. They can be very helpful in spreading the word that you would welcome donations of food and even volunteers for interacting with the dogs to help socialize them for better chance of happy adoption if that's your hopes for your little charges. Our local television stations like doing special stories on such things and it's a great way to get the word out that you're there and needing some help. I know around here it's not at all unusual for local long term shelters such as you have created to have a scheduled guest spot on the "Good Morning" shows. Good luck in your endeavors and God be with you in your worthy labors of love.