It’s called the HAPPY Act—Humanity and Pets Partnered Through the Years—and if it gets through Congress, pet owners across the nation will get a tax deduction for pet care expenses of up to $3,500 per person. The bill, introduced by Rep. Thaddeus McCotter, R-Mich., defines a pet as "a legally owned, domesticated, live animal," which covers dogs, cats and an assortment of other creatures.

"Having a more sensitive culture toward animals helps society in general," says Hollywood actor and pet owner Robert Davi, who presented the idea to McCotter.

Pet-Friendly Lodging

By Peter Greenberg

Use a vacation-apartment rental agency to find a vacation condo or cottage that accepts pets.

• International Airlines that Allow Pets On Board
• Service Animals in Hotels
• Dog-Friendly Destinations

Scam Alert: Pet Lemon Laws

By Sid Kirchheimer

Find out what options you have when a pet you purchased gets sick. Read more.

• A New Twist on Pet Scams

Project FeederWatch

During winter, you can volunteer to count birds at your own feeder for a scientific census by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology. You don't need to be an expert; birders of all skill levels are encouraged to participate.

Pet Fostering

Animal rescue organizations need people to provide care and temporary homes for kittens, puppies, and other pets that are ill, pregnant, or have behavioral problems. Most fostering programs offer training and supplies to volunteers. Go to Pets 911 to find a local shelter or rescue organization in need of fostering volunteers.

Raise Guide Dogs

Organizations such as Guide Dogs of America, Guiding Eyes for the Blind, and The Seeing Eye need people to foster-parent puppies that will be formally trained as guide dogs for the blind and visually impaired.

Excerpts from AARP The Magazine's Virtual Volunteering Resource Guide.