ARF believes the best home for a pet is the one they are already in, with familiar surroundings and a family who loves them. For local pet guardians who face the heartbreaking decision of relinquishing their pets due to financial crisis or personal struggles, ARF is there to help.

ARF Pet Safety Net assists qualifying Contra Costa County residents who want to keep their pets out of the shelter and at home where they belong. On referral from partner shelters Contra Costa Animal Services and Antioch Animal Services, and inquiries through ARF’s Resource Center, this program provides critical resources or stipends to prevent pets from being surrendered. Assistance is available for services including:

• Spay/neuter
• Vaccinations and microchips
• Veterinary treatment with good prognosis
• Pet rental deposit
• Shelter impound fees
• Temporary boarding
• Pet supplies, pet food, and cat litter
• Behavior and training, including classes and private consultations
• Medical grooming
• Yard or fence repairs
• Humane euthanasia
• And more

At this time, the program cannot assist with treatment of medical conditions with a poor prognosis (except for humane euthanasia), urgent medical emergencies, continuing care of chronic conditions, some housing issues (ie; non-negotiable “no pets allowed” policies), personal relationship or household dynamics, long-term boarding, or long-term assistance with daily pet care.

Qualifications
Residents of Contra Costa County who, without intervention, would be forced to surrender their pet(s) to an animal shelter due to a financial or personal crisis may be eligible for assistance through ARF Pet Safety Net. Proof of residency is required (CA state-issued ID, utility bill, passport, etc.). Homeless or transient pet guardians who reside in the county are encouraged to apply.

To Qualify
Contact ARF’s Resource Center online or at (925) 256-1273 if you believe you qualify for ARF Pet Safety Net.

Client Privacy Statement: At times, ARF may require your contact information (i.e. address, phone, etc.) so we may provide proper services for your pet(s). This information will only be used to determine animal identification, residency, or program qualification.

ARF honors client privacy and does not share information with government agencies aside from animal services for the aforementioned purposes.