Tony La Russa's Animal Rescue Foundation (ARF) is excited to announce it is less than 50 adoptions away from placing its 25,000th rescued pet into a loving, lasting home.
The 21-year-old organization has been rescuing abandoned animals from overcrowded public shelters since its humble beginnings, when dogs and cats were cared for in foster homes and adoptions were processed from a portable office. According to Executive Director Elena Bicker, 157 animals were adopted in ARF’s first year. Last year, the organization placed 1,973 dogs and cats in homes. ARF currently saves lives from their 37,700 square foot state-of-the-art animal community center headquarters where they’ve operated since 2003.
“We are energized to reach this milestone and recognize it is a direct reflection of our donors, staff, and dedicated volunteers who are committed to changing the outcome for pets who have run out of time in public facilities,” Bicker says. “We are grateful for the community’s embrace as we perform our lifesaving work.”
Whether the 25,000th animal to be adopted from ARF is bubbly German Shepherd mix Izzy, sensitive pup Fiddle, snuggly tabby cat Stuart, or spunky kitten Glitter, the adopting family will take home a companion who is certain to be an amazing best friend.
Watch the organization’s virtual count up to the 25,000th adoption milestone on ARF’s Facebook page (www.arf.net/facebook) and Twitter feeds (www.twitter.com/ARFtweets and www.twitter.com/ARFadoptions #ARF25k) or visit www.arf.net to view dogs and cats available for adoption.
ARF saves the lives of dogs and cats who have run out of time at public shelters, giving them loving care and another chance at life until a new home can be found. ARF’s innovative People Connect programs strengthen the human-animal bond for children, the elderly, and other people in need. ARF allows people to experience the unconditional love and acceptance of dogs and cats to fulfill our mission of “People Rescuing Animals...Animals Rescuing People”®
