Frequently Asked Question
PDF Print E-mail
What is ARF?
ARF is a private, non-profit, animal welfare organization with the goal of reducing the number of homeless dogs in Fresno County. We do not rescue cats, birds, or wild animals though we do work with a variety of different rescue groups to support the care of all animals.

How does ARF help animals?
ARF helps dogs a variety of programs, including adoption, owner assist placements, and the senior program. These programs help fulfill ARF's mission by reducing the number of homeless dogs and ensuring the humane treatment of animals.

How is ARF different from Animal Control or the Central Valley SPCA?
ARF is a private, non-profit, animal welfare organization, dependent on donations. Animal control departments and the Central Valley SPCA are county or city agencies, funded by taxpayer dollars that are set up primarily to meet the city or county's animal control needs. However, ARF, the various city Animal Control departments, and the Central Valley SPCA work together to save as many lives a possible. At ARF, healthy and loving animals are never put to death to make room for more incoming animals. At ARF, as new homes are found for our dogs, more dogs who have run out of time at public shelters are rescued.

Is ARF a “No-Kill” organization?
ARF is committed to finding homes for adoptable dogs – meaning dogs that are healthy and free of serious behavior problems. Dogs are euthanized only if they are too sick to be rehabilitated, or too aggressive to be placed safely in a home.  The decision to euthanize a dog is not taken lightly and EVERY effort is made to rehabilitate a dog so that euthanasia is not necessary.

Why can't ARF take in more dogs from the people who call to ask for help?
For every call that ARF receives regarding adoption, there is about 5-8 calls from people trying to find a home for their own dog. ARF takes in as many dogs as there is room for at both the facility and in foster homes.  Unfortunately, ARF does not have the resources to take in every dog in need of a new home.  However, every caller is provided with resources and suggestions for keeping their dog or for finding their dog a new home.

Why is ARF so particular about who adopts a dog, since so many dogs need a home?
ARF is committed to placing our dogs with caring and responsible adopters.  The dogs in our care count on ARF to do so, and we make a financial and emotional commitment to every dog that comes through our doors. ARF's objective is to place dogs with adopters who understand and accept that they are making a lifetime commitment to the dog.  This means that not all dogs and potential adopters will be a match for each other.

What is ARF's facility like?
ARF’s facility is located on about 2 acres of property on Dakota Ave. between Maple and Cedar in Fresno, CA.  The facility has separate areas to accommodate the various types of dogs in our care.  Currently the facility includes the following areas: small dogs, large dogs, quarantine, mom & puppies, and senior dogs.  The dogs are able to spend several hours a day playing with each other in the outdoor play yards and are kept cozy at night in their indoor kennels.

Please click on one of the following links for more information about: ARF's Mission, Board of Directors, FAQ, or Locations & Hours.