Hey everyone! Today I'm bringing you a different, but really fun and positive guest post into this space. I know I'm not an animal related blogger and I know that animal related content isn't something I generally focus on here. However, when Mary came to me with this post idea I couldn't say no. I love animals so much and more importantly, I love finding ways to get involved in something I'm not sure how to approach directly. 

I grew up with a dog, a shihtzu I got when I was seven, that we saved from a puppy mill. Spot, was the best dog and a true and probably the most beloved member of our family until my sophomore year of college. Ever since, I've wanted so deeply to have another dog and have decided that I would certainly like to rescue one if given the chance. Right now, being in college and living in a pet free apartment, adopting or rescuing a pup of my own isn't in the cards. I loved that when I read Mary's post I really felt like I could connect to this awesome cause of rescuing animals even with my inability to actually have pet myself. That's what makes this post alone worth the read. Without further ado, here are some fun, fashionable, and affordable ways to support/get involved with animal rescue!

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Hello there, Dearie Lovie Readers!

I am so excited to be stopping by today from Little Holly's Big World, where I spend my days writing about all the fun and fabulous things you can do (and wear) with your pup in New York City!

My dog, Holly Golightly, is a rescued Chihuahua mix from the Humane Society of New York, and she is the best gal pal a girl could ask for. Through working on my blog I have been so fortunate to connect with many amazing people who hold the cause of animal rescue close to their hearts, and hope to raise further awareness about animal adoption and all the ways we can help save every animal possible.

Since I know a lot of people are not in the position to bring a new rescue into their home, even as much as they would love to, I thought this would be a great place to share some of the fun & stylish products I have come across in my blogging experience that also benefit animal rescue. Looking cute and saving a cute animal is the best win-win situation I can think of! As an added bonus, everything here is under $50, proving that making a difference doesn't have to mean breaking the bank.

1. Alex & Ani Paw Prints Charm Bangle ($28, buy it here):

Until December 2014, Alex & Ani will donate 20% of profits from each bangle purchased to the Mayor's Alliance for NYC animals, which focuses on caring for and adopting out homeless animals throughout the city.

2. Hendrick & Co. William Tote ($30, buy it here): 

Hendrick & Co. is a brand dedicated to helping animals in critical need (they even support a skunk rescue!), and underfunded animal shelters. Starting August 15th, buyers will be able to enter their zip code into a special map on their website and select the local shelter their purchase will help. 

The "William" tote was inspired by the owner's own rescue pup, William, and is part of the SquareIt collection, which donates 2x more than a standard purchase to animal rescue. Head over to Little Holly's Big World this week to check out my interview with the company's CEO and a gift card giveaway!!

3. Crafting4Cause Little Dog Big Kisses Chihuahua necklace ($20, buy it here):

A portion of all proceeds from the pretty hand stamped jewels on this Etsy page goes to animal shelters. She carries a ton of products promoting everything from animal rescue to Autism awareness and even makes custom items, so whatever your cause, you can wear it proudly!

4. I'd Rather Be With My Dog Paw Print Tank ($27.99, buy it here): 

The founder of I'd Rather Be With My Dog created his collection of tanks, tees, mugs and stickers after getting a ton of response from a song he wrote about an ex with the line "I'd rather be with my dog, then be with you girl" (take THAT, Taylor Swift!). A portion of all sales goes to animal rescue. 

The company also offers breed-specific styles so you can rock your pooch's lookalike even when they aren't at your side! As an added plus, shoppers get 20% off with code BIGWORLD through August.

These are just a few examples of the fun and stylish ways you can help give back to the animal community. Of course, there are free ways you can give back as well, from volunteering your time at a local shelter to donating old quilts to shelters in need. Even sharing an article or photo on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram encouraging animal adoption or spay & neuter programs can have a huge impact (spaying or neutering one pooch can ultimately save hundreds of lives). 

No matter what you support, know your voice is enough to make a difference, and that is paw-sitively fabulous!v Hope to see you on the blog, darlings!

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Thanks again Mary for sharing and you can catch more of her journey with her rescued pup Holly in tow over at her blog!