In the animal welfare community we have seen a huge spotlight placed on serious issues such as puppy mills, the importance of the humane treatment of animals and most recently, Obama’s promise to get a dog for his daughters. We trust that the Obama family will adopt the “first dog” and that all of this new attention will bring about even greater changes for all of these topics in the future.

This season is usually considered the time for giving. We are thinking about gifts for our family and friends and charitable offerings to nonprofits. Unfortunately, because of the state of the economy, many people are scaling back on their donations. So many nonprofits that rely heavily on contributions, including animal-related organizations, are feeling the pinch.

Dog’s Life wants to support the idea of giving by offering you some simple ideas that allow you the opportunity to give. On the Yap page, we share the stories of how four different organizations have found unique ways to help animals. Whether it’s by donating an old blanket, visiting a pet-related website, collecting dog food or supporting a canine blood bank, they all have found a way to give support, proving we can all be involved. If you plan on buying a gift for your canine companion or the dog-lover in your life, then make sure to read the Dog Treats page. Almost all of the products are giving a portion of their sales to local or national animal welfare programs.

But let’s not forget what dogs give to us. While most would say “unconditional love,” many believe that dogs can also give us the ability to heal. Our feature story, “Pawsitive Effects,” explains the influence that dogs can have on our physical and mental health. From lowering anxiety and stress to preventing heart disease, the positive effects of dogs on our body and minds are now studied around the world. A dog’s love truly defines the word giving; they are present for us without any expectations of compensation.

During this time of giving, we should also give thanks to the shelter and rescue workers in our communities. They give so much of their time, their homes, and often their own money, year-round, to help animals find forever homes. I think Mother Theresa best summed up the overall sentiment of giving: “It’s not how much we give, but how much love we put into giving.”