Despite how much we may all want to help our local animal shelters, we don't all have the spare cash laying around to do so. However, the good news is that there are other ways to help your shelters without shelling out cash donations, and the ideas we've come up with are way more fun than just writing a check.

• Dog walkers: Use extra time and get extra exercise by offering your talents as a dog walker on weekends or around your work schedule.
• Foster homes: New kittens and puppies may need special one-on-one care so offer to help with the potty and litterbox training for a new babe — you may just fall in love in the process.
• Cleaning staff: Someone's got to keep those kennels spotless — find out if you can help out either tidying up or bringing in supplies for weekend or holiday clean fests.
• Adoption drives: See if the shelter is holding any special events where you could volunteer your time, playing with and showing off cute, available faces to potential owners.