Giving Hope to Our Four-Legged Friends

“Giving Hope to Our Four-Legged Friends”
Hello!
This “Project Ideas” Binder was created as part of our Girl Scout Silver Award. It is packed full
of ideas that you (or a group) can do to benefit the animals at the Humane Society of Midland
County. The Binder is organized by project difficulty (1=easy, 2=moderate, 3=difficult). We
have assigned both a difficulty and cost rating to each project. Look inside for the difficulty and
cost descriptors as well as an index of projects.
The idea for this binder was born out of our love for animals. Our Girl Scout Troop has been
together for over nine years. We all love animals, so our service work has often been directed
toward animals and the Humane Society. We have made fleece dog blankets, homemade dog
treats, catnip toys and adoption bags to give out to adopting families. We even had a rummage
sale and earned over $400 to purchase food and supplies for the Humane Society!
As a troop, deciding how to help hasn’t always been easy or obvious. Over the years, we spent
time inquiring and researching projects that we felt might be helpful and that were age
appropriate for us. As a result, we thought others could benefit from a resource that included lots
of ideas to choose from. We requested a meeting with members of the Humane Society to
present our concept--and they agreed! So, we pulled together our ideas, brainstormed new ones,
documented everything, and put it all together in this binder. The result was a new tool for the
Humane Society… this “Project Binder” full of ideas for volunteers!
We hope you enjoy looking through these ideas and that you will find a project just right for you
and/or your group. You might also inquire at the desk to see if there are any current needs.
Additionally, if you come up with something new, please consider creating a write up (like the
ones included here) and ask the Humane Society to add it to this Binder. That way, the binder
will continue to grow and stay relevant!
Thanks for looking! We hope these ideas help you and many others throughout the years!
In service,
Girl Scouts Heart of Michigan
Troop 50488
All projects include a “Difficulty” & “Cost” rating as defined below
1 = Easy
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1
Little or no prior knowledge or skills
Few supplies needed
Simple tools may be required
Simple, easy to follow directions
2 - Moderate
2
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Some prior knowledge or skill may be required
May include both items from home as well as purchased items
Required tools may include scissors, measuring tools, hot glue gun
Multi-step directions
Possible adult supervision, depending on age
3 - Difficult
3
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High level of skill
Tools like sewing machine or saw may be needed
Ability to follow detailed direction
Adult supervision may be required
Lower cost, most items found around home, recycle items
Indicates additional costs for purchased items likely involved
CAUTION: Be sure to use nontoxic, animal safe products
2
Adoption Bags are fun to make!!!
Needed
Bags to put items in – must be see through
Ribbon/string to tie-up/decorate the bags
Paper to include a note
Pen to write with
When an animal is adopted from the Humane Society, it’s really neat
for them to get a “happy adoption bag”. We made homemade dog
biscuits and put them in small cellophane bags, tied them with a
ribbon, and included a note with “Congratulations on your new family
member!”
You can decide what to include--toys, treats, leash/collar. (Think about
what you might like to receive if you were adopting a new cat or dog.)
Also decide if you want to make something for cats or dogs. You can
use homemade items (ideas in this binder) or purchased items—it’s up
to you.
It’s fun to make the package pretty—like a gift. Tie it up and include a
note for the adopting family.
3
Adoption Dog Vests - Sewing
Materials
• Fabric (anywhere from ½ yard to 1 yard, depending on
the size vest you want to make)
• Pattern (multiple patterns enclosed). If the pattern is
missing, consider purchasing a pattern from a fabric
store or make your own
• ½ Yard Velcro
• Thread
• “Adopt Me” Letters
Directions
• Follow the pattern directions
• Add “Adopt Me” on the top (will sit across the animals back
when wearing). Stencils, Fabric Markers, etc. can be used.
Please make sure it is easily readable!! Remember, the vests
washed, so anything you use must hold up in the laundry.
3
Adoption Dog Vests - Sewing
Materials
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Fabric (anywhere from ½ yard to 1 yard, depending on the size vest you
want to make)
Pattern (multiple patterns enclosed). If the pattern is missing, consider
purchasing a pattern from a fabric store or make your own
½ Yard Velcro
Thread
“Adopt Me” Letters
Directions
•
•
Follow the pattern directions
Add “Adopt Me” on the top (will sit across the animals back when
wearing). Stencils, Fabric Markers, etc. can be used. Please make sure it
is easily readable!! Remember, the vests washed, so anything you use
must hold up in the laundry.
3
Adoption Dog Vests – NO SEWING Required
You don’t even need a sewing machine — the only tool you need is a pair of scissors!
Supplies You’ll Need:
• Cotton fabric (about 1/2 yard per vest)
• Velcro strips
• Webbing
• Double-sided interfacing (such as Heat ‘N’ Bond)
• Cardstock
• Spray paint
• Iron
Directions:
1. Use the enclosed vest templates: small, medium, large, and Adopt Me text.
2. Cut out a rectangle of fabric and a rectangle of interfacing that is slightly bigger than the
template you’re using.
3. Bond the double-sided interfacing to the fabric piece using an iron (follow the instructions that
come with your interfacing) and cut out a shape that is 1/2″ bigger than the template.
4. Cut out another piece of fabric the exact size of your template.
5. Bond this smaller shape inside the slightly larger piece with an iron.
6. Cut slits every 1/4″ around the edge of the larger piece of fabric.
7. Fold the edges over and bond with an iron.
8. You’ll cut out 1 more rectangle of fabric and interfacing and bond those together. Using this
piece, cut out another shape that is slightly smaller than your template.
9. Now you’ll create a sandwich. Cut your strips of Velcro to about 8 inches in length (these will
attach underneath the dog’s torso) and cut a 4 inch long strip of webbing (this is where the collar
will slide through). Place the bonded pieces, then your strips of Velcro and a folded piece of
webbing; your final piece of fabric will rest on top (with the bonding side down). Iron this all on
both sides to create your bonded vest.
10. Cut out “Adopt Me” from a piece of cardstock and place it on your vest. (A bit of spray
adhesive can help keep this in place.) Hold the spraypaint back 12″ from the vest and go over the
spot lightly until you have an even coat of paint. Let dry and then remove the stencil.
1
Creating “Adoption Folders” for Dogs and Cats
This project is ideal for younger children. It is simple and inexpensive; also you
need little to no supervision.
Must Have:
 Plain folders with two inside pockets
 Decorations--from stickers, crayons/colored pencils, to glitter-glue
 Sharpie Permanent Marker (black) to write in corner
 Anything that relates to the animal
What to Do:
 Write “Cat” or “Dog” in the upper right corner of the folder
 Decorate the folders however you wish
 If you have a group of children tell them to be creative and explain to
them how the folders will be used. Let them go and enjoy
decorating! There is no “wrong” way :o)
The Humane Society will later add adoption information to the folders. The
information will be about the dog or cat the person has chosen to adopt.
A happy folder = a happy family!
Adoption Bandanas
3
Make colorful bandanas for large and small animals that will help
them get noticed -– and adopted!
You can use iron-on transfers with designs you create on your computer, or
you can draw on designs by hand. Here’s how:
SUPPLIES AND EQUIPMENT
You will need:
• Fabric: 20” to 24” squares of light, bright, solid-color cloth (may be slightly larger or
smaller, depending on the size of the animals they’ll be used on)
Hint: If you don’t want to go to a fabric store, you may find some plain doggie bandanas
online just waiting for you to decorate!
Iron-on style
• Iron-on transfer paper available from office supply stores or departments (you may want
to call your favorite store first to be sure they’re in stock)
• Iron and flat surface that can withstand heat
Draw-it-yourself style
• Indelible (not washable!) fabric markers, all colors OK
DIRECTIONS
Take a fabric square and fold it corner to corner, forming a triangle. Cut along the fold. This
will produce two triangles each with a long side for tying. The final size must be able to tie
completely around the animal’s neck.
Hint: For many fabrics, if you use pinking shears to cut, you won’t have to sew a hem!
Iron-on style
Follow instructions on your package of transfer paper to design and transfer your message
(see suggestions below) to one triangle at a time.
Draw-it-yourself style
• Write a very short message and draw a simple design on only one side of each
triangle (see suggestions below).
• Be sure the ink from your marker is completely dry on the cloth before you handle
the bandana further.
MESSAGE AND DESIGN IDEAS
• Adopt Me!
• Take Me Home!
• Shelter Dogs/Cats/Rabbits Rock!
• Be My Best Friend!
• I’ll Be Your Best Friend!
• Paw prints
• Hearts
• Holiday themes (shamrocks, hearts, flags, Christmas trees, etc.)
• I <heart> Shelter Dogs/Cats/Rabbits
1
BALL OF FUN
Materials:
• One clean empty toilet paper roll
• Scissors
Instructions
1. Flatten the toilet paper roll and cut it into 8 equal-sized rings, about 1/4″ to
1/3″ thick.
2. After cutting the flattened roll into rings, pop the rings back into shape.
You’ll now have a pile of toilet paper roll rings. If you stop here, you’ll have
created the “Ring Toss” cat toy — a bunch of rings that you can toss in the
air for your cat to catch.
3. Or, you can continue to make a ball of fun. Take three of the rings and loop
them around each other to form a sphere.
4. Continue wrapping the remaining rings around each other until you have
formed a ball.
1
Cardboard Kitty Bed
Supplies• cardboard boxes (all sizes, all kinds, at least 5 medium size boxes)
• masking tape
• exacto blade and ruler
• scrap paper, felt, or fabric
• decorative paper or fabric
DIRECTIONS
1. Choose a height for the bed (average of 4 inches)
2. Measure and cut your cardboard in identical width strips. Cut so that the ridges in
the cardboard are going horizontally across the strips.
3. Start rolling the cardboard in your hands and bending at each corrugation, the
cardboard will start to curl naturally.
4. Tightly wind one strip into a circle and tape closed. This will be the core of your
round.
5. Add a new piece and secure with two pieces of masking tape. Choose which side
will be the top and make sure that side is always even. It is less important if the
other side is slightly uneven, it will still sit properly and the top will look perfect.
6. Keep adding! Tape each piece right next to the end of the last piece and keep the
coiling tight.
7. Cut your pretty paper and wrap it around the outside. Tape to close.
8. Trace onto the scrap fabric or paper and cut out the circle. Tape or glue to the
bottom so that if you choose to put catnip in it, it won’t spill through.
1
Cardboard mouse toy
Supplies• A clean piece of Kraft cardboard;
• Printed or hand drawn template of any shape;
• Tape (to secure template);
• A sharp exacto Blade and handle;
• Cutting mat; (or another sheet of cardboard to cut on);
• Elmer's non-toxic glue
DIRECTIONS
1. Draw any shape you wish on paper. Make a slot In it that is the width
of your cardboard. Take another shape and cut the same size slot in
it.
2. Cut out your shapes and tape to the cardboard as a template
3. Cut out the cardboard.
4. Place shape a’s slot in shape b’s slot. (so you have a threedimensional object)
Cardboard Tubular
Materials
• 1 cardboard tube (the center of a roll of kitchen towel)
• Dog treats
• Duct tape
Directions
1.Flatten one end of the cardboard roll and seal it up with duct tape.
2.Pour some of your dog's favorite treats inside.
3.Flatten the other end and seal it up.
4.Now wrap the whole thing in duct tape for strength.
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3
HOW TO MAKE A CAT HAMMOCK
MATERIALS
· Two squares of fabric 1¾" larger on all sides than the final desired size. Tightly-woven cotton/fleece
fabrics work well.
· 20" of webbing ribbon or strong tape cut into four 5" lengths for loops.
· Optional: Batting the exact size of the desired finished size.
STEPS
STEPS
1. Press ¾" hem on all sides of one square on the wrong side. If batting is used, baste this along
the hem. Fold tape in half to form a loop and pin on wrong side of fabric in each corner.
Sew several rows of stitches across the corners to secure the tape, as shown below.
2. Take the second square, and press the same ¾" hem on all sides as first square.
3. Put the two squares together with the wrong sides facing each other. Pin in place, and sew a
line of stitches all around the perimeter as close to the edge as possible through both pieces of
fabric. Sew a second row of stitches about ½"
1
Cat Teaser
Materials
 Feathers
 Little bells
 string
Directions
1.Cut a piece of string
2.Tie a bell around the bottom of the string
3.Grap two or three feathers that you bought and use the rope from earlier
and tie it around the feathers
Chicken Jerky Treat
3
Ingredients
• Chicken breast fillets
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 200° F
2. Lightly grease a baking sheet.
3. Rinse off chicken breast and remove any fat.
4. Slice the chicken with the grain. This will help make the jerky
even chewier for your dog. The slices should be very thin,
about 1/8" to 1/4" thickness.
5. Place the strips on the baking sheet.
6. Bake for approximately 2 hours (see note below).
7. Remove from oven and cool on a wire rack until completely
cool.
8. Cut strips into bite sized pieces.
Coconut Clusters
2
Ingredients
• 3 tbsp whole wheat flour (see note below)
• 1/4 cup, plus 1 tablespoon applesauce, unsweetened
• 1/4 cup milk, low or fat free (see note above about milk
substitutions)
• 1/2 cup shredded coconut, sweetened
• 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
Instructions
1. Mix the first four ingredients together in a large bowl.
2. Slowly add the rolled oats, about a 1/2 cup at a time. The
mixture may be too loose (or dry) to clump together. If that is
the case, gradually add one tablespoon of applesauce at a
time. Check the mixture by squeezing a small cluster in your
hand. If it does not stick together, add one more tbsp of
applesauce.
3. Scoop coconut clusters with a cookie scooper. Then, with
damp hands, press into a
cluster shape.
4. Place on a cookie sheet lined
with parchment paper.
5. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Crackling Sock
1
Materials
 1 empty plastic bottle, small
 1 sock
Directions
1.Take the cap off of your plastic bottle and throw it away (it's a choking hazard)
2.Now squeeze all of the air out.
3.Put this inside of an old sock and tie a knot in the end of the sock to keep it in
place.
The empty cuddly toy
2
Dogs love stuffed animals, but why is it that they always end up ripping it up,
making a big mess out of the stuffing? Give a dog the joy of stuffed animals, but
without the stuffing and the mess, with this easy to do project!
Requirements:
• 1 old cuddly toy/ stuffed animal (preferably without hard eyes that could
hurt a dog’s mouth)
• Needle
• Thread
• Scissors
Directions
1. Take a clean stuffed animal, and cut it open just enough so that you can pull
the stuffing out
2. Pull the stuffing out
3. Using the needle and thread, sew up the open hole
Feather Stick Cat Toy
2
What you need
• 20" piece of 1/4" dowel
• 1" piece of clear tubing, 3/8" outside, 1/4" inside dimension.
• 18" piece of strong cord.
• feathers
• a pen cap
• a stick of glue gun glue
• glue gun
• scissors
Directions
1. put a knot in one end of the string/cord
2. using the scissors (or any suitable pokey-device), trim the tab (if any) off the pen
cap, then poke a hole into the top of the pen cap that is big enough for the
string/cord to go through, but not so big as to let the knot through.
3. thread the string through the hole in the cap, so that the knot ends up on the
inside of the cap. Push the string through and then pull it out the hole. You might
need to use a needle or skewer to help it through.
4. put the other (non-knot) side of the string through the tubing piece
5. push the tubing onto the end of the stick, so that it holds the string in place. If
you need to make it more secure you can just secure it with some hot glue.
6. select a bunch of feathers and align them with the pin ends all pointing one way
7. test fit the feathers into the cap (pin ends into cap) - add more if needed, or
remove some if you had too many. Take them out before the next step.
8. squeeze some hot glue into the cap. Fill it maybe halfway.
9. before the hot glue sets, push the bunch of feathers into it. Pin ends go into the
cap, into the glue. Some hot glue will likely ooze out the end of the pen cap - keep
fingers clear!
10. remove excess hot glue from the end of the pen cap (wipe it onto some paper or
cardboard).
11. let the hot glue cool and set and then remove any loose feathers
1
Fetching Flyer
For many dogs, chewing up things around the house is their favorite hobby. They will chew shoes, furniture and doors
if they don't have special chew toys available. Avoid this decor nightmare by making some custom chew toys for your
special dog. Homemade dog toys are less expensive than store bought varieties, and you can create a varied collection
so that your furry friend can have a toy for every room in the house.
Things You'll Need
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Knee Sock
Tennis Ball
Freezer
Instructions
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1
2
Slip an old tennis ball into a very long knee sock. Use the longest sock that you can find that is
made from knitted material, not nylon hose.
3
Tie a knot in the sock very close to the tennis ball, to encase the ball in the sock toe. Tie
another knot close to the first one. Continue making a series of knots all along the sock until
you reach the sock opening. Tie this closed with a final knot.
Soak the knotted sock with enclosed ball with water, then wring out as much water as
possible. Put the sock in the freezer for at least one hour. Allow your chew toy to freeze solid.
Your dog will chew the frozen sock, and will be used to playing with it by the time it thaws.
Fun Dog Games
2
Follow the Leader
• Set up lots of puppy obstacles and traffic cones in no particular
order and you may include a shallow wading pool, and some piles
of balls or Frisbees. Then call your dog and see if she/he can make
it through the obstacles.
Find the Treat
• Lay your dog down and tell him/her to stay. While the dog is laying their
go and hide a couple of treats. When you are done call your dog and see
how many of the treats they can find.
Hide and Seek
• Sit your dog down and then go and hide. When you are ready call
him/her to come and see how long it takes them to find you but be
careful they may peak.
Go Find
• This is a more advanced version of the “Find the Treat”. Start with
a game of fetch then tell your dog to stay until you decide to kick
the ball. If this is to easy then you could play a trick on your dog
and only pretend to drop the ball and then see if your dog can get it
when you throw it by surprise.
2
Maybe a fund raising project is something you want to
consider.
Our Girl Scout troop held a garage sale to benefit the Humane
Society of Midland County. We brought things from home to
sell and asked neighbors and school friends to donate items.
We even made and sold refreshments during the sale. Once
complete, we used our earnings to purchase items for the
Humane Society from their “Wish List” (see list included).
Think about it…brainstorm ideas! Maybe you want to rake
leaves or shovel snow for neighbors. You’re sure to come up
with a fund raising activity you’ll enjoy!
How to Braid Dog Leashes
2
Things You'll Need
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Dog snap
Scissors
Measuring tape
4 lengths 9 ft.-long rope, 0.3-0.5 cm diameter
Directions
1. Select three or four lengths of rope. If you're attempting to make a multicolored
leash, stick to two colors. Consider the size of your dog and use a cord with an
appropriate diameter for your dog's strength. The diameter should be roughly 0.5 cm
(5 mm) for a large dog and 0.3 cm (3 mm) for a smaller dog.
2. Cut the rope into even lengths. For medium to large dogs, cut the rope to measure 9
feet long, which will make a leash that measures 6 feet. You can reduce the length
by one to two feet for smaller dogs.
3. Tie the three or four lengths into a knot at one end and tie it to the dog snap. Attach
the dog snap to a secure surface.
4. Alternate the different ropes to form a braid. If you are using four pieces of rope, hold
two lengths of the same color in one hand and braid hand over hand. Try to keep an
even tension so that the rope is not slack, but do not hold it so tightly that it ruins the
braid. Form tight, evenly sized braids. Stop 18 inches before the end.
5. Knot the ropes 18 inches before the end and then complete the braiding. Once
finished, loop the end of the rope back over to the knot and tie it into a handle. Tie
the second knot close to the first so that it doesn't close. Leave approximately 2
inches of extra rope at the end.
6. Ensure that the leash can hold up to pressure before trying it out. Once you are
certain that the leash is suitable, cut off the extra material.
How to Make a No Sew Blanket
1
Things You'll Need
•
2 yards of fleece (or soft blanket)
•
Scissors
•
Ruler
•
Flat working surface
Directions
1. Cut off any extra edging on the fabric that is undesirable looking such as stitching seams or extra white
edges often found on licensed fleece prints. Then cut your 2 yards of fleece into two equal 1-yard
sections.
2. Spread out one of the fleece pieces on a large, flat surface. Make sure the fabric is completely flat.
Next lay the other piece of fleece directly on top of the first piece. Again, make sure it is completely flat.
The ends should all match up perfectly since they are the same size. If they don't, try laying the fabric in
the opposite direction; you may have just put it down the wrong way. If the edges still don't match for
whatever reason, simply trim them so they are close to exact.
3. Take your ruler and measure 5 inches in from the corner. Cut a 5-by-5 inch square out so you have a
missing square corner in your fabric. Repeat this on all four corners.
4. Lay your ruler down in front of an edge beside an empty corner. Make 4- to 5-inch cuts at the 3, 6 and
9 marks on the ruler. Now make a 4- to 5-inch cut between each of these cuts so that your 3-inch sections
become 1 1/2-inch ties. Continue cutting the edges into 1 1/2-inch segments all the way around the fabric.
Once all the edges have been cut, it's time to start tying.
5. Take a 1 1/2-inch segment. There should be two pieces, one from the top layer of fleece and one from
the bottom. Tie these two together and double-knot them so the ends hang loose. Tie every other segment
this way.
6. Flip the blanket over and all the remaining segments (every other section) the same way as before,
double knotted, loose ends hanging. Congratulations, you just made a no-sew blanket!
CAUTION: Be sure to use nontoxic, animal safe products in all projects
How to Make a Catnip Toy
2
Things You'll Need
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Fabric
•
Needles
•
Thread
•
Scissors
•
Catnip (available at pet stores)
Directions
1. Decide on the toy shape: mouse, heart, star or whatever shape catches your fancy.
2. Make a pattern by drawing the shape on a paper grocery bag, leaving a 3/8-inch seam
allowance around the design.
3. Cut the pattern out.
4. Fold a piece of the scrap material you wish to use to make the toy, keeping the nice sides
together.
5. Pin the pattern onto the scrap material, and then cut out the pattern.
6. Straight stitch a 3/8-inch seam around the cutout, but double check that the right sides are
together before you do.
7. Leave about an inch opening in seam.
8. Trim the seam at the corners or curves, cutting from the outside to the edge of the sewn seam.
9. Turn the toy right-side-out, and fill with dried catnip.
10. Hand stitch the remaining 1-inch opening closed.
How to Make Homemade Dog Beds
3
Things You'll Need
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•
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Two blankets or other fabric
Pillow stuffing
Needle
Thread
Measuring tape
Scissors
Fabric marker
Time Estimate: May vary depending on level of expertise
Directions
1. Begin by measuring your dog. Run the tape measure from the tip of your dog's tail to
the tip of his nose. You want to measure to the tip of the tail because some dogs, just like
people, like to sleep completely sprawled out, and their tails need to be pillowed along
with the rest of them.
2. Write these measurements down, and then add 9 inches to all sides. This will give you
some room for the stuffing. Mark these measurements on the two blankets you have
chosen to create your dog bed.
3. Cut the blankets with your scissors to the measurements you have marked on the
blankets. Sew three edges of the blankets together with the needle and thread. Use heavy
thread, and double-stitch your sewing so the bed can withstand heavy use and washing.
4. Stuff your dog bed. Depending on the size of your dog, it may take several packages
of pillow stuffing. You may also recycle old pillows from your home to stuff the dog bed.
5. Sew up the fourth end of the dog bed.
How to make dog booties
3
What you need
•
•
•
•
•
Vinyl
Velcro
Sewing Materials
Fabric
Scissors
Directions
It can get pretty cold in the winter, and dogs may need booties to keep their feet warm. A pattern
for fabric is attached, and the size can be adjusted depending on dog size (A good size for a large
male greyhound is to have the pattern be 4 ½ inches wide)
Place the “toe” of the pattern on a fold of fabric and cut out around the boot shape. When you
unfold the fabric, you’ll have a sort of hourglass shape. Don’t sew up the sides until you’ve done
the next steps!
• Following the marks on the pattern, place a circle of vinyl or other non-slip material on the sole
of the boot and sew it in place.
• Sew on a piece of Velcro at the ankle position, using the softer fuzzy half, and catching a piece
of elastic underneath it, as shown. The stitching for the Velcro will hold on the elastic.
• Sew the other half of the Velcro strip (the part with all the tiny hooks) securely onto the free
end of the elastic. Make sure that the hooks are facing down when you’re looking at the sole of
the boot.
• Finally, fold the boot in half with the right sides together (so that the vinyl sole is inside) and
sew up the sides. Turn it right side out.
If you are going to sew the booties from fleece fabric, which doesn’t fray or ravel, don’t add
much of a seam allowance to the pattern — about ¼” around the edges —you might want to
count in an extra bit of width for seam allowance if you’re planning to use a woven fabric like a
waterproof nylon or such.
To put the boots on the dog — just turn the boot so that the sole is to the back of the dog’s leg,
and slide his paw into the boot. Wrap the elastic around the front of the leg, as shown, and fasten
the Velcro.
Pattern for Making Dog Booties
3
Homemade Cat Food
A healthy and cheap treat you can make at home.
Ingredients• 1/2 cup milk
• Three slices of meat, 2 veggies, or 4 crab sticks
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup flour
DIRECTIONS
1. Mix all ingredients together
2. Use a cookie cutter to cut into small shapes.
3. Cook at 350 degrees Fahrenheit, until golden brown
Give to cat to enjoy!
Homemade Dog Collar
3
Things You'll Need
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•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
1-inch nylon webbing
1-inch plastic buckle
Measuring tape
Needle
Thread
Hot glue gun
Plastic jewels
Ribbons
Scissors
Candle
Match
Directions
1. Use a tape measure to find out how many inches around your dog's neck is. Write this
number down and add 4 inches to it. So if your dog's neck is 6 inches around your
total would be 10 inches.
2. Cut your nylon webbing at the total inches you need from Step 1.
3. Light a candle and carefully burn both ends of the webbing where you cut. This will
seal in the ends and keep the ends from fraying later on.
4. Unsnap the buckle so that it is in two pieces. One will go on each end of the nylon
webbing so that it can be attached again when completed.
5. Slide one end of the nylon webbing in through the buckle. It doesn't matter which
part of the buckle you use because the other piece will go on the other end and they
will both connect.
6. Use a needle and thread or a sewing machine to sew the overlapping nylon webbing
together. This keeps the buckle from sliding off.
7. Thread the other end of the nylon webbing through the other buckle. Sew the
overlapping pieces of webbing together just like you did in Step 6. Your collar is now
done and you can decorate it.
8. Use a hot glue gun to add plastic jewels to the outside of the collar. These jewels have
a flat bottom where you can place the glue and then push on to the collar.
9. Add strips of ribbon in whatever pattern you like to the collar. Use the hot glue gun to
stick it on.
HOMEMADE DOG TREATS
Archie Squares:
Ingredients:
-2 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
-1/2 cup powdered dry milk
-1/2 tsp. garlic powder
-1 tsp. brown sugar or honey
-6 tbs. meat or bacon drippings, cold right from refrigerator, not melted or soft!
-1 egg, slightly beaten
-1/2 cup Ice water
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 350F.
2. Lightly oil a cookie sheet.
3. Combine flour, dry milk, garlic powder and sugar. Cut in meat drippings until
mixture resembles corn meal. Mix in egg. Add enough water so that mixture
forms a ball. Using your fingers, pat out dough onto cookie sheet to 1/2" thick.
Cut dough into squares appropriate for your dog size. Prick each cookie with
fork.
4. Bake 25-30 minutes. Remove from tray and cool on rack. Store in airtight
container.
HOMEMADE DOG TREATS
Bacon Bits for Dogs:
Ingredients:
-6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
-4 eggs, well beaten
-1/8 cup bacon fat
-1 cup water
-1/2 cup non-fat dry milk powder
-2 cup graham flour
-2 cup wheat germ
-1/2 cup cornmeal
Directions:
1. Mix ingredients with a strong spoon; drop heaping tablespoonfuls onto a greased
baking sheet. Bake in a 350 oven for 15 minutes. Turn off oven and leave
cookies on baking sheet in the oven overnight to dry out. Yield: about 4 dozen
dog cookies.
HOMEMADE DOG TREATS
Everyday Biscuits
Ingredients:
-2 teaspoons dry yeast
-1/2 cup lukewarm water
-2 tablespoons dry parsley
-2 tablespoons minced garlic 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
-3 tablespoons honey
-1 egg
-5-6 cups whole wheat flour
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 350 ° F (180 ° C)
2. In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Stir in the parsley, garlic, broth,
honey, and egg. Gradually blend in flour, adding enough to form stiff dough.
3. Transfer to a floured surface and knead until smooth (about 3-5 minutes). Shape
the dough into a ball, and roll to 1/4-inch (6 mm) thick. Using small bone-shaped
cookie cutters, make biscuits! Transfer to ungreased baking sheets, spacing
them about 1/4 inches (6 mm) apart. Gather up the scraps, roll out again, and cut
additional biscuits.
4. Bake for 30 minutes. Remove from oven and turn over. Bake for an additional 15
minutes, or until lightly browned on both sides. Let cool overnight. (After we finish
baking all batches of biscuits, we turn off the oven, then spread all the biscuits
out on one baking sheet and set them in the oven to cool overnight. The extra
time in the oven as it cools off helps make the treats crispier and crunchier.)
Below is a list of items the Humane Society can always use! Consider
taking up a collection, or purchasing something.
Pet/Grocery Store Gift Cards
Cleaning Supplies
HE Bleach (6%)
HE Laundry Detergent
Dawn Dish Soap
Small Spray Bottles
Tall Kitchen Drawstring Bags
5 Gallon Garbage Bags
Zip Lock Bags (All Sizes)
Hand Sanitizer
Odoban (Cleaner for floors)
Rubber Gloves
Pine Sol
Food & Food Related
Science Diet AD Canned Dog Food
Science Diet AD Canned Cat Food
Any Brand Dry Cat Food
Any Brand Dry Dog Food
Stainless Steel Bowls
Canned Pate Food
Accessories
Small Litterboxes
Sturdy Leashes (all sizes)
Martingale Style Collar
Office Related
Thermal Laminating Pouches (9in x 11.4in)
Reams of Copy Paper
Office supply store gift card
Joining MYPAWS Group
MISSION: To help the Humane Society of Midland County (“HSOMC”) to raise
funds and to educate our generation about caring for animals.
WHAT IS MYPAW: A group of enthusiastic kids, ages 8 to 17, who would like to
help the HSOMC raise funds and educate our generation on caring for animals.
WHAT ARE MY RESPONSIBILITIES AS A MYPAW MEMBER?:
Each member is required to attend a meeting one per month, follow fund-raising
leads assigned to him/her, and at least once per year chair or participate on a
committee responsible for the MYPAW portion of a particular HSOMC event from
start to finish.
Links:
- Humane Society Website: http://www.hsomc.org/
- MYPAW registration form: http://hsomc.org/wordpress/wpcontent/uploads/2011/02/Youth-Membership-Application.pdf
1
Kitchen-Towel Braids
Materials
• 1 old kitchen towel
Directions
1.Cut two slits along the length of a towel, equidistant from each other, and
stop cutting about an inch from the top.
2.Then braid the towel as you would hair.
3.Knot the loose ends and you have a tough dog rope toy that’s way
cheaper than the ones in the stores.
2
Kitty munchies
A cheap and tasty treat you can make at home.
Ingredients• 1/2 cup dry cat food
• 1/4 cup warm water or milk
• 3 tablespoons catnip
DIRECTIONS
1. Put the cat food and milk in the bowl and mix well.
2. Pour out any extra water.
3. Sprinkle the catnip over the mixture and mix well.
4. *If you like you may bake in a 350 degree oven for 15 min.*
Give to cat to enjoy!
1
Milk-Bottle Madness
Materials
 1 plastic milk bottle
 Dog treats that you can fit inside
Directions
1.Remove the plastic cap and throw it away.
2.Put a dozen or so treats inside and then give it to the dog.
No Sew Dog Sweater
2
Things you need:
•
•
•
Measuring Tape
Scissors
Sleeve from a baby, toddler or child's sweater (see step one)
Directions
1) Measure your puppy's neck and around the chest. This will give you an idea for the size sleeve
you need. You may need a sleeve one from an older child or adult depending on the size of your
dog or puppy.
2) Cut the sleeve from the garment you are using. The top should be as long as your dog from the
back of the neck to the start of the tail. If you have a male dog the part underneath the coat
(where the seam is) will need to be shorter to allow them to go to the toilet without soiling the
jumper.
3) Measure from your puppy's neck to the top of the front legs, and also the distance between the
front legs. These will help you work out where to cut the holes for the paws to fit through. Make
sure they have room to walk and play safely in them. If the holes are too big the paws can get
stuck inside the jumper making it impossible for them to walk. Cut the holes in the sleeve and
then your dog is ready to try on his or her new outfit!
Peanut Butter Oat
2
Ingredients
• 1/2 cup milk, low or fat free
• 1 cup peanut butter, natural or organic
• 3 cups rolled oats
Instructions
1. Stir vigorously to combine the first two ingredients in a large
bowl.
2. Slowly stir (and mash) in the oats, about a 1/2 cup at a time.
The mixture will be very thick.
3. Scoop out the peanut butter balls with a cookie scooper.
Then roll with damp hands until you create a uniform ball
shape.
4. Place on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
1
Ribbon wand cat toy
Supplies• Spools of unwired fabric ribbon (any color)
• 2-foot-long, 1/4-inch-diameter dowel rod
• Fabric glue
• Felt
DIRECTIONS
1.
Cut four to six stands of ribbon. 1 foot long each
2.
Gather the ribbons together. Spread fabric glue around the top edge of the dowel
rod.
3.
Wrap the edges of the ribbons around the top of the dowel rod. Hold them in place
for 20 seconds.
4.
Cut a piece of felt long enough to wrap around the ribbons on the dowel rod.
5.
Spread glue on the felt. Press it over the top of the dowel rod, on top of the ribbon.
6.
Cut a small piece of ribbon, long enough to tie it around the felt. Tie it in place.
This ribbon will hold everything to the dowel rod when it dries.
7.
Remove the ribbon tied around the felt after the glue dries
The Rope Ball
2
Materials
•
•
A piece of old rope
1 tennis ball
Directions
1.Drill or cut a hole in each side of the ball, big enough for your piece of
rope to squeeze through.
2. Put the rope through it until the ball is central, and tie knots either side of
the ball to keep it in place.
3.Tie knots at the ends of the rope for grip. You now have a killer tug-of-war
toy that is also good for fetch and chewing.
2
Scratching Post
-Sisal Wrapped Scratching PostSupplies-
• One cedar post that is about 30" tall and at least 4" in diameter
• A bundle of non-oiled sisal rope measuring a 1/2" wide
• A piece of 3/4" plywood to make the base sturdy (at least 16 x 16 diameter)
• 1/2" roofing nails
• Four 3/4" 16d coated sinker nails
*The base should be sturdy enough that the post will not tip over*
DIRECTIONS
1. Make sure your post is dry (so that there will not be any shrinking of the post after the
sisal is wrapped on)
2. Nail the beginning of your rope all the way around the top of the post.
3. Then you wind the rope around and around and around the post very tightly so that
there is no air space between the pieces of rope. -this will take you all the way down to
the bottom
4. Nail the end of your rope all the way around the bottom of the post.
5. Nail the base on to the post -use about four nails and pound them through the bottom of
the plywood base and into the bottom of the post.
You now have a cat approved scratching post!
1
Shiny Cat Toy
Supplies1) aluminum foil
2) Yarn
OPTIONAL:
1) Metallic yarn
2) Metallic fabric
3) Metallic paper
4) Ball-any kind of small ball
5) Plastic shopping bag
6) Styrofoam ball
DIRECTIONS
1. Cut a piece of aluminum foil about the size of a piece of paper.
2. Scrunch the foil into a very tight ball making sure no edges are left hanging out so
your cat doesn't chew on them.
3. Tie a piece of long yarn securely around the foil ball
*Make the ball bigger than the cats mouth so it can't accidentally swallow it and
choke*
TO USE: attach the string to the ceiling or a chair. Make sure the ball hangs just above
the floor.
OTHER IDEAS:
*Wrap metallic paper around a tennis ball, ping pong ball or any other small object.
Secure it in place with a lot of clear packaging tape, and attach a long string to either
hang or pull around.
Shelter Orientation
When you want to go to the shelter for orientation all you have to do is call ahead
of time so you are put in a group. When you arrive you will have to sign in and
then one volunteerer will give you a tour of the center and explain all of the
basics that you would have to know if you wanted volunteered.
1
THE SOCK ‘N’ BALLS
Materials
 1 sturdy sock
 1 old tennis ball
Directions
Place the ball inside the sock to the toe-end, and then tie a knot just above the
ball to seal it inside. Probably the cheapest, easiest, and handiest DIY pet toy you
can make.
Become a Member of the Humane Society of Midland County
Becoming a member in HSoMC involves dedication and commitment to animals. Along with
several volunteer tasks that are available, HSoMC members are entitled a voice in the decisions
that the Board of Directors are considering. Members are also allowed to vote for the Board of
Directors and become foster pet guardians. Membership applications & additional information
are available at the Humane Society of Midland County or on the web at http://hsomc.org/.
Join the Youth Group MyPaw
MyPaw (Midland Youth Promoting Animal Welfare) is for youth ages 8-17. MyPaws is
dedicated to helping raise funds for the HSOMC and promoting animal welfare education.
Additional information on this youth group is available at the Humane Society of Midland
County or on the web at http://hsomc.org/.
Volunteer
You or your group can volunteer! There is a program or task that can fit any schedule, be it one
hour a week or much more. Some opportunities include pet foster care, administrative, walking
dogs/socializing cats or cleaning/feeding at the shelter, etc. All volunteers are required to attend
an orientation session prior to getting started at the shelter. Additional information on volunteer
opportunities is available at the Humane Society of Midland County or on the web at
http://hsomc.org/.
Donate
Money and items are always needed. The Humane Society of Midland County and its services
are made available through the generosity of people like you. We’ve included a list of items that
are always needed in this binder. Additional information on how/what to donate is available at
the Humane Society of Midland County or on the web at http://hsomc.org/.
If you want to look at other project options, these
websites provide good information!
http://www.bullwrinkle.com/Assets/Recipes/Recipes.htm
http://www.petplace.com/cats/homemade-treats-for-your-cat/page1.aspx
http://www.ehow.com/how_8295452_make-dog-blankets.html
http://domestikgoddess.com/sew-your-own-winter-dog-boots/
http://www.make-and-build-dog-stuff.com/index.html
http://www.make-and-build-dog-stuff.com/therapy-dog-vests.html
http://www.wisebread.com/10-diy-dog-toys-you-can-make-for-pennies
http://www.akc.org/public_education/responsible_dog_owner.cfm
http://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Cat-Scratching-Post
http://petsupplies4less.wordpress.com/2007/11/11/homemade-cat-scratching-post/
http://www.wikihow.com/Make-Cat-Toys-out-of-Common-Household-Items
http://www.bullwrinkle.com/Assets/Recipes/Recipes.htm
http://www.dogplay.com/index.html
http://www.dogplay.com/Activities/games.html
http://www.dogtreatkitchen.com/easy-dog-treat-recipes.html
http://www.ehow.com/