Animal welfare organizations depend on the generosity and goodwill of donors and volunteers to make the lives of animals better. A public relations strategy with a strong social media component can go a long way toward getting the word out to people who are ready to help.
Animal Welfare Social Media
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) commissioned a survey that reveals social media has a positive effect on the animal shelter and rescue community. According to the survey, social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram and Twitter aid in generating the increased public support needed to help them to save more lives:
More than three quarters of respondents said their social media use has increased in the last year and 70 percent say it will continue to increase in the next year. Among the many positive impacts of social media use, those surveyed indicated it increased general awareness about their organization (86 percent), increased animal adoptions overall (66 percent) and increased adoptions of harder to place animals, like senior pets and those with medical issues (55 percent). Survey respondents also noted that with the pace of change in technology and limited staff, additional support and training would help them expand their use of social media and, hopefully, its positive impact.
Developing a Social Media Strategy
A successful social media strategy requires insight and consistency. For animal welfare organizations, social media is all about making personal connections with potential volunteers and donors. It’s the perfect vehicle to tell the heartwarming (and heartbreaking) stories that motivate people to devote their time and energy to help animals. Plus, don’t forget the power of sharing baby animal pictures to open wallets and sway even the hardest hearts.
Finding an Animal Welfare PR Partner
If your rescue or animal advocacy organization needs help developing and implementing a social media strategy as part of a broader public relations effort, the animal welfare public relations experts at Orange Orchard can help. Contact us online or at 865-977-1973 to learn more.