Founded in 2002 by dedicated animal lovers Angie Fenton, Barbara Schulz, and James Gordon, AAR is entirely managed and maintained by volunteers. Each day approximately 40-50 volunteers (from pre-teens to seniors) care for the animals, oversee adoptions, and staff the front office. Additionally, volunteers chair many fundraising events and participate in civic events. AAR’s policy is to treat the animals in our care as we would our own pets; we never euthanize a healthy, treatable, rehabilitatable, manageable animal. AAR has spent thousands of dollars on medical care and behavioral training; AAR has never euthanized to make space. We had Chopper for almost five years before he was adopted by a wonderful loving couple. The History of AAR 2003 - Humble Beginnings AAR was born in a leased liquor store that we converted into a tiny shelter with a small lobby, one room for spay/neuter surgery, and two small rooms for rescued cats and dogs. 2006 - Moving On Although it was exciting to get started, we knew we wanted more. It took about three years, but with the support of several major donors, AAR purchased one acre with a large building on it. This allowed for the ability to shelter about 30 dogs, 20 cats, and have a large surgery room. With more community support, we purchased the 5 acres behind the Hufsmith location. Our plans were to build a 10,000 sq ft brand new building on the back of the property. 2017 - The New Chapter Unfortunately, building codes and the shape of the second property made adding on impossible with the money we had raised. In 2016, after looking at numerous properties, we purchased seven acres in Magnolia. The large 2-story /3-car garage property was transformed into Offices, Lobby, Cattery, and Clinic. The larger dogs received new kennels with indoor/outdoor access. The grounds were transformed to include an interactive dog exercise area – Clark’s Bark Park – in memory of a young animal lover.

Mission and Vision

AAR’s mission is to work towards ending pet overpopulation that results in the euthanasia of unwanted cats and dogs. We do this by providing a rescue and adoption center, by emphasizing the importance of spaying and neutering and by educating on humane animal ownership. AAR is committed to the emotional, physical, and behavioral well being of each animal in our care. In addition to providing a shelter for abandoned animals, AAR has foster families for special needs animals, litters, and rehabilitation. Although our mission statement says we want to end the unnecessary euthanasia of adoptable cats and dogs, we know that is a distant destination. So with your support, AAR will continue working towards making our community a no-kill, safe haven for homeless pets.

Adoption Policy

Adoption process AAR uses a partial “open” adoption policy. Although we have adoption applications, we focus on conversation-based adoptions designed to help you find your next best friend. All potential adopters fill-out an adoption application and interview with an AAR adoption volunteer. The adoption volunteer will conduct a meet-and-greet session with as many pets as wanted. If an adoption is approved, the adopter fills out an adoption agreement, pays the fee, and goes home with a new family member! Adoption fees Dogs under 6 months are $200. Dogs 6 months and older are $175.

https://www.aartexas.org/adopt/adopt-a-dog/

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David Adams

June 25, 2024

Dog Rescues & Shelters

David Adams

About the author

David Adams is a man of many passions, but his love for dogs stands above all. He is not only a dog lover, but also the founder of an innovative platform called Sniffspot. This unique platform connects dog owners with private property owners who are willing to rent out their space for off-leash playtime. While the idea of Sniffspot was initially conceived by his wife, Rebecca, David has been the driving force behind its remarkable success, tirelessly overseeing its growth and development. David's dedication to providing safe and enjoyable spaces for dogs to play, explore, and socialize is evident in his unwavering commitment to Sniffspot. He strongly believes that dogs need ample space and opportunities to stretch their legs and have fun. As a result, he has worked tirelessly to build a network of private property owners across the country who share his vision and are willing to offer their space for the benefit of dogs and their owners. Despite his busy schedule, David always finds time to indulge in his passion for the great outdoors. He loves nothing more than exploring new hiking trails and embarking on thrilling outdoor adventures. Whenever he is not working on Sniffspot, he can often be found hiking or visiting multi-acre fenced sniffspots with his two beloved dogs, Soba and Toshii. He is an avid outdoorsman who enjoys the fresh air, breathtaking scenery, and the sense of freedom that comes with being in nature. David is based in Salem, MA.

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About Sniffspot

Sniffspot provides the best experiences and fun for you and your dog. Our dog parks are designed for the ultimate dog exercise. Our private spaces help you minimize distractions or triggers and maximize time with your dog. We provide off leash enrichment - exploration and activities you can't get anywhere else; wear your dog out for days. We make it easy to have playdates. Socialize your pup in a controlled, private spot - it's great exercise and it's fun for you and your dog.

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