Calling ALL animal lovers!  We have the perfect donation spot for you!  Whether you have a pet, or have a soft spot for animals, we think you’ll love the opportunities to get involved here.

Indianapolis Animal Care Services is a city-run shelter focused on promoting the well-being of animals through education, support, rescue and adoption.  One of their biggest goals is owner education, providing support for owners who need a little extra help caring for their beloved animal, whether that be with training or veterinary bills.  The last thing they want to do is have a pet separated from their sweet family, so they strive to be a valuable resource along the way.  They also care for animals dropped off at the shelter, providing a safe environment with medical attention to meet their needs until they are adopted.

We recently had the honor of connecting with Roxie Randall, Manager of Community Outreach, to learn more about the shelter.  We learned how the shelter has held a “bad rap” over the years for enforcing ordinances, but there’s been a shift in their reputation as they’ve become more of a resource for the community, and it’s exciting to hear about the amazing impact they are having!

What kinds of donations are accepted?

There are a variety of needs ranging from pet food and toys all the way to cleaning supplies.  Currently, the greatest needs are kitten food and litter, followed by laundry detergent and bleach.  Some other ideas for donations include blankets, towels, sheets, and bedding (gently used bedding + blankets are acceptable as long as they don’t have any holes or stuffing coming out of them!).  For a full list of items, check out more ideas here, or visit their Amazon wishlist!

Approximately how many animals are served?

In a year, the shelter takes in about 14,000 animals - holy cow!  Their building can only house between 300-400 animals at one time, so fostering is key for keeping some availability.

How can readers get involved?

• Adopt.  Giving an animal their forever home is such a JOY!

• Foster.  Hands down, the best way to get involved (other than adopting, of course!).  Everything you need is provided for you, so no need to fear the cost (even veterinary care is provided!).  There are currently 200 animals in foster care, but more homes are always needed.  

• Volunteer.  Whether you want to be hands-on as a dog walker, or behind the scenes as a digital photographer, I guarantee there is a place for you here!

• Donate.  Of course, donations are always welcome!

Where can we follow along?

Facebook: @IndianapolisAnimalCareServices

Instagram: @indyanimalcareservices

Twitter: @INDYACS

TikTok: @iacsanimals 

It was such a pleasure getting to know Roxie and the heart behind Indianapolis Animal Care Services!  Roxie has a beautiful passion for helping animals, and has welcomed a furry family member into her home as well since working here.  Before her current position, Roxie served as an adoption counselor and would come in on her days off to assist with temperament tests for some of the animals. While doing so, she fell in love with a dog, but was not in a position to take him home with her at the time.  He later was adopted at an Indy Mega Adoption Event, but was returned to the shelter about a month later.  When he came back, Roxie knew it had to be fate and adopted him into her family!

We’d LOVE to hear about your furry family members!  Comment down below to tell us about them!

The Baer Minimalist helps busy families create ORGANIZED + STYLIZED spaces throughout Indianapolis. We are passionate about helping our clients and the greater community not only Cut the Clutter, but also Donate + Do Good! Check out our full list of Donation Resources here!

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