Updated Thursday, January 14, 2021

As an essential business, and in compliance with social distancing and recommended safety protocols, ARF is suspending many regular programs and services until further notice. Thank you for your continued interest and support of ARF as we navigate this difficult situation. Our shelter animals are our top priority. They are being well cared for by our staff and many of our animals are in volunteer foster homes.

Adoptions are offered through a virtual adoption process. Available animals may be viewed online here.

The ARF Thrift Store in Concord, CA is open for shopping, Tue-Sat 10 am to 3:30 pm, with new safety measures in place. Donations are accepted by appointment only, please call 925-685-0908 to schedule.

Our Pets and Vets service dog program is temporarily closed to new service dog applicants while we serve the veterans already in the program as well as those on our current waitlist. We are still placing emotional support animals. Please contact us to inquire. For current Pets and Vets students, training sessions are being offered with new safety protocol in place, but field trips are suspended.

ARF Emergency Medical Fund^® and Pet Safety Net are still offering assistance to pet guardians in need, and ARF's FoodShare program is still delivering pet food and cat litter to crisis centers to assist low-income families and seniors. Clinic appointments are available for urgent medical needs and for scheduled Emergency Medical Fund appointments.

For safety, the following are currently suspended or postponed:

• We are grateful for our volunteers, but respectfully request that they do not visit ARF's facility unless prior arrangements have been made. ARF is unable to accept new volunteers at this time.
• Mobile adoption events
• Mobile clinic services at the VA: Veterans with questions may call (925) 296-3125 (option 7)
• Spay/neuter services 
• Select Events and workshops
• Pet Hug Pack^® visits and events
• Pet Loss Support Group
• Dog training classes
• Humane education programs: This including field trips, Camp ARF, school visits, and All Ears Reading^®
• ARF's in-house Lou Russa's Boutique is closed for in-person shopping. However, ARF gear is available to purchase online. And adopters may ask about ARF's supply starter kits, available when picking up your new dog or cat.

 Be prepared to take care of your pet(s) in the event that you should become ill:

• Identify a family member or friend who can care for pet.
• Have crates, food, and extra supplies (including medications) on-hand for quick movement of pet. A pet first-aid kit is also good to have for any unplanned situation.
• Ensure your animal's vaccines are up-to-date in the event boarding becomes necessary.
• Document all medications with dosages and administering directions. Including the prescription from your veterinarian if a refill could be necessary.
• Pets should have identification such as an ID tag on their collar and/or a microchip. Remember: A microchip is only as good as the contact information registered to it.

More emergency preparedness tips.