What a joyful sound that can be when a happy pet is greeting its human companion. Unfortunately, that sound often becomes a plaintive cry for help from an animal that has been lost or abandoned. Animal Rescue Friends of Idyllwild wants all ARFs and meows heard to be joyful sounds. But, because we average six or more calls a day (and that’s just from the humans) about lost or unwanted pets, we know that not all ARFs are happy sounds.
ARF helps area dogs and cats by working to find permanent homes for animals that are homeless, unwanted, or otherwise neglected or in need of care. We find temporary homes until permanent homes are secured, offer free spay and neuter services (a small donation is appreciated), and provide food for pets whose human companions are unable to supply adequate nutrition. ARF also helps to reunite lost pets with their humans when a pet is lost and/or found and assists in getting animals emergency veterinary care.
While ARF is a local, Idyllwild organization, the area served actually reaches quite far. Many animals have been rescued from surrounding communities and placed in good homes in places as far away as San Diego, Los Angeles, Temecula, and even Seattle in addition to placements in Idyllwild, Hemet, and the desert communities surrounding Palm Springs.
Heartworm disease in dogs and cats is common in our mountain area and many pet owners don't realize the danger their pets may be in. Tests, prevention, and treatment are expensive for this fatal disease and many dogs and cats are unproteted. ARF wants to provide heartworm prevention education and offer low-cost testing and treatment for infected animals.
The greatest challenge faced by ARF is that there are always more animals in need than there are places to take them in. Foster homes are needed for both dogs and cats until they can be placed. ARF is looking for a plot of land to create a temporary shelter so the burden can be lifted from those who so generously open their homes but cannot keep animals on a more permanent basis.
Please click here or call (951) 659-1122 or (951) 659-5184 to volunteer your help. Donations can be made online or mailed to ARF, PO Box 1965, Idyllwild, CA 92549. ARF is an official 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and all donations are fully tax deductable.
