During the COVID-19 pandemic, virtual meetings have become the norm. Talking to each other online is the perfect way to practice social distancing, but oftentimes, it’s not as good as face-to-face interactions. Michigan Animal Rescue League (MARL) realized that there had to be a way to make these video calls more exciting. So, they decided to start a fundraiser to help their adoptable dogs and cats. The animal shelter is now allowing adoptable animals to join your virtual meetings. They might not provide any insightful business ideas, but they’ll definitely make the call more exciting!
If you donate $50, you can get an adoptable animal on a call for 15 minutes. Also, $100 donations give you 30-minute sessions with the dog or cat. MARL thought this would be the perfect way to raise money during this difficult time while spreading the word about animals looking for a home. The shelter is only open for scheduled appointments, but they still have many dogs and cats available.
Image: Screenshot, @symanews/Facebook
At the beginning of the video call, a member from MARL will introduce the dog or cat. Then, they’ll leave it to the animal to run the rest of the call. These dogs and cats might not be video call experts, but they know how to make people smile.
“Animals bring joy into people’s lives and we wanted to bring a little bit of that joy into all of the video calls that are happening right now,” said Audrey Blaylock, the MARL communications manager.
Image: @marleague/Facebook
Preparing for the Calls
The staff is currently working with the animals on proper video call etiquette. Dogs and cats can often be unpredictable, especially if they are new to the shelter. However, the staff can promise that they will be an adorable addition to anyone’s call.
Everything earned in this unique fundraiser will go directly to the dogs and cats at the shelter. While many families have been choosing to adopt during this time, many have also been surrendering. MARL needs more donations than ever during this time.
Image: Screenshot, @symanews/Facebook
“During this crisis we continue to take in abandoned and at-risk animals,” said Blaylock. “We have taken significant precautions to keep our staff and community safe but we are still here for those animals who have nowhere else to turn.”
Not long after MARL launched this event, spots quickly began to fill up. If you’re interested in adding a dog or cat to your next call, check out MARL’s website to sign up. These sweet animals are sure to make your time at home better!
Image: Screenshot, @symanews/Facebook
H/T: mlive.com
Featured Image: Screenshot, @symanews/Facebook
