Even for children too young to volunteer at an animal shelter, there are lots of ways to help critters in need. Just listen to some of the cool ways kids have conjured to help their furry friends at shelters.

Filling bags or buckets with toys and snacks makes the perfect playthings for dogs to explore. And stuffing those toys with dog-safe treats makes the fun last even longer. Youngsters can also make cat toys by using feline-friendly materials, sell their creations to friends or neighbors and donate the proceeds to a local animal rescue group.

Other creative ideas might include designing a poster about pet overpopulation or pet safety for a school project.

Local shelters should have ideas for additional ways families can help out.

As you can see, the sky’s the limit when it comes to kids helping animals.