About the Shelter
The Benevolent Animal Rescue Committee's (BARC) mission is to control the dog and cat population and find the best new homes possible for abandoned pets. The rescued animals include strays, pets turned over by owners, and some rescued from city and county shelters. Every dog and cat is altered before they can be adopted and every animal is kept until successfully placed in a home. BARC has a network of volunteers and foster homes that help them reach their goals, and work to find loving homes for about 1800 dog and cats each year. BARC also takes back adopted pets for their entire lifetime, showing a long-term commitment to our "best friends."

A Success Story
Sydney, (photo at right), was rescued by John and Marina Reich in April of 2000. The Reichs met with the BARC group and were qualified for pet adoption after losing their dog, Cali, to cancer three months prior. The BARC volunteers brought dogs to their home for them to meet, but none felt right. That was until they ran into Sydney at BARC's weekly adoption event at the local Petsmart. At 3 years old, she had already been battling cancer and epilepsy, but the Reichs knew that she was the one meant for them. Since they were pre-qualified for adoption through BARC, they were able to take her home right then and there. Sydney, now almost 12 years old, has outlived all expectations. Marina said, "Although her face is white now, she still has the puppy in her. She has been a saint of a dog, she knows she was rescued, and we love her."

How You Can Help
For starters, visit the BARC website at www.barconline.com to learn more about the commendable organization. All donations, adoption fees, donated items, etc. are tax deductible.

Nominate A Shelter
Do you have a shelter success story to share? Help us spread the word about the many organizations out there devoted to rescuing homeless and abused animals. Please email your stories to us at:ellen@bestfriendsstudios.com. Thanks for your help!