A monthly column for people who share their homes with four-legged friends.

As I follow the tragedy in Japan, my heart goes out to the people whose lives have been changed or cut short by the earthquake and tsunami. My heart also goes out, of course, to the vast number of animals who are suffering. I'm sure many of you share my concern, so I wanted to pass along some resources for those people who might want to do something for four-legged victims.

1) Visit the World Vets website: www.worldvets.org. World Vets states that they are "a non-government organization (NGO) providing veterinary aid around the globe in collaboration with animal advocacy groups, foreign governments, US and foreign military groups and veterinary professionals abroad". They have been incredibly active in Japan disaster relief and they provide numerous ways to help, including donating and volunteering.

2) Send money or supplies to: Animal Miracle Network, 4804 NW Bethany Blvd., Ste 12-197, Portland, OR 97229. For a list of needed items, visit www.animalmiraclefoundation.org/japan.htm.

3) Join the Japan Animal Rescue and Support Facebook Group to learn about emerging opportunities to help needy animals. With 33,000 members at the time I'm writing, it has quickly become a vast resource.

4) Donate to Humane Society International: www.hsi.org. They have sent staff to the region and are reaching out to Japanese partner organizations to identify where and how best to provide emergency support and veterinary attention.

5) Donate to a Japanese shelter. Animal Rescue Kansai (www.arkbark.net), for example, is particularly active in the region affected by the earthquake and tsunami.

Of course, disasters strike all over the world. In fact, it seems that recent years and months have been marked by far too many critical situations threatening the well being of people and pets. It's important to remember that for each devastating catastrophe, there is always a chance to reach out to animals as well as people. If you are fortunate enough to be able to give a little bit of your time or money, it can go a very long way.

And, for those of you with Facebook pages or blogs, keep in mind that social networking is an incredibly valuable tool in any disaster. Even if you cannot donate time or money, you can spread the word about ways to help. Even when we are so far away that we feel helpless – i.e., earthquakes in Japan and New Zealand or floods in Australia – remember that communication is instantaneous and powerful. We are never truly helpless if we have access to technology.

Albert, a Jack Russell Terrier, is Chairman of the Board of Wylie Wagg, a shop for dogs, cats, and their people, in Middleburg, Fairfax, Falls Church and Arlington.