In the quiet neighbourhood of Sandy Hill, the Anguilla Animal Rescue Foundation (AARF) has become a lifeline for animals in need.
Founded in 2000, the non-profit runs the island’s only animal shelter and is dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating and homing stray and unwanted dogs and cats.
Every year, AARF helps hundreds of animals find safety, medical care and loving homes. To date it has contributed to more than 2,300 adoptions.
Some find homes in Anguilla while others begin a new life abroad, travelling to the US and beyond through partnerships with rescue groups such as Fly To Freedom Dog Rescue.
Behind every happy ending is a dedicated team of volunteers, working tirelessly to give every animal that comes through AARF’s doors a second chance at life.
Daily life at the shelter
At the heart of AARF is its small but busy shelter inside Morlens Veterinary Clinic in Sandy Hill.
Since 2008, staff and volunteers have cared for dogs and cats of all ages – providing food, veterinary treatment and socialisation until they’re ready for adoption.
The animals stay in a safe, clean environment and receive personal attention, helping them to recover and thrive.
There is a dedicated puppy play pen where young dogs can safely socialise, play and build confidence under the watchful eyes of caring volunteers.
Meanwhile, the kittens at the shelter get the opportunity to spend time in a spacious, secure enclosure filled with toys and soft bedding to encourage socialisation and healthy development.
Surrendered animals
When the public finds themselves unable to care for their pet, or they come across abandoned or stray-born creatures, they can fill in a form to surrender them safely at Morlens Veterinary Clinic.
Once at the clinic, each animal undergoes a minimum three-day observation period, where veterinarians carefully assess their health and behaviour.
Those deemed suitable for adoption are then bathed, dewormed and vaccinated before being transferred to the AARF shelter.
At the shelter, a dedicated team of volunteers commits to finding loving forever homes within at least 14 business days.
However, with limited space and resources, the shelter faces difficult decisions and may need to euthanise animals that are not adoptable or remain unclaimed beyond a certain period.
Supporting the community
To combat the large number of stray-born animals arriving at the shelter and to reduce euthanasia rates, AARF works proactively to improve animal welfare across Anguilla.
The foundation promotes spay and neuter campaigns to help control the stray animal population and prevent unwanted litters.
Since launching its spay and neuter programme in 2003 it has funded at least 4,000 surgeries – at a cost of US$247,000.
Educational outreach is another core part of its work, especially in schools. By teaching children how to care for animals, AARF helps build a culture of compassion and responsibility.
These efforts make a long-term difference for both animals and people on the island.
How you can help
As a non-profit, AARF relies heavily on donations, funds raised through merchandise sales and events, and the generosity of the community at its thrift store Second Chances in The Valley.
As well as contribute financially, volunteers can help walk dogs, care for animals, foster puppies and kittens, or assist with fundraising and adoption events.
Businesses and individuals can also support by donating food and supplies, organising campaigns and fundraising events, or simply by sharing AARF’s work online.
Even a small contribution can go a long way in helping the foundation continue its lifesaving mission.
Anyone interested in further information or adopting an animal for just US$25 can visit the comprehensive website aarf.ai or call (264) 497-4600 to schedule a visit at the shelter.
