Animal Rescue Fund of the Hamptons, Inc. (ARF) has provided a holiday miracle for over 100 animals in need. On Sunday, December 17, ARF welcomed 130 animals from Puerto Rico at Gabreski Airport in Westhampton that are now safe at the ARF Adoption Center in Wainscott.
ARF’s transport team flew back down to Puerto Rico on Wednesday, December 13 for ARF’s second rescue mission in the last two months. They met up with ARF rescue partner, Leo Roubian and Barks of Hope, who unfortunately are still without electricity in Rincon.
“ARF is glad we could help where we could, because the island is in disrepair,” shared Director of Operations, Michele Forrester.
While initially ARF expected to bring back 80 to 100 animals from the island, the need was so great that ARF ended up saving the lives of many more, resulting in ARF’s biggest rescue to date. The 123 dogs and seven cats were brought back to New York on a chartered cargo flight.
The rescue effort was aided by the Irving and Phyllis Millstein Trust for Animals, which was established from the Millstein’s estate to safeguard and support defenseless and at-risk animals.
“ARF is also grateful to the Irving and Phyllis Millstein Trust for Animals for their lead gift to help us with this rescue mission,” Forrester expressed.
 |
|
130 animals arrived on Sunday, December 17.
|
The adorable rescues have been a hit at the Shelter, as all except for three dogs from the last rescue mission – which saved 70 animals – have already found forever homes.
Once the animals that recently arrived in the Hampton are medically cleared, they will also be available for adoption at Animal Rescue Fund of the Hamptons, Inc. Some of the new ARFans include chihuahuas, shih tzus, a great dane, poodles, schnauzers, and many other precious breeds.
ARF’s mission is to “actively rescues cats and dogs, provides quality care and offers sanctuary until loving homes can be found.” The non-profit was founded in 1974, and since its inception has saved over 25,000 cats and dogs.
Earlier this year, ARF was awarded the Platinum GuideStar Nonprofit Profile Seal of Transparency, the highest level of recognition offered by GuideStar, the world’s largest source of nonprofit information.
Additionally, for those looking to do a little holiday shopping, ARF is offering 25 percent off furniture now through Sunday, December 24 at the ARF Thrift Shop (17 Poxabogue Lane, Sagaponack) which offers used furniture, house wares, art, jewelry, clothing, cars and other treasures in excellent condition.
Animal Rescue Fund of the Hamptons, Inc. is located at 124 Daniels Hole Road in Wainscott. For more information, call 631-537-0400 or visit www.arfhamptons.org.
