Winter 2023

at the local shelters that are at risk of being euthanized, often because they're too sick or injured, or they're too old or too young, or they're shy or traumatized.They just need extra time and a home where they can decompress,” says Starr. “We pull those that are most at risk, put them in a loving foster home, and give them that second chance to find their new forever family.” AFRP has assisted more than 25,000 animals over the past 25 years. In 2022, the organization took in 207 dogs and 223 cats through shelter selections and owner surrenders. Area house- holds adopted 168 dogs and 165 cats from AFRP last year, and plenty more animals were served through wide-reaching initiatives. Through its community cat program, for example, the organization and its partners served more than 1,000 feral cats and backyard strays in 2022. To minimize overpopulation and prevent disease, animals are humanely trapped, neutered or spayed, vaccinated, and returned to their familiar habitats. AFRP also works with 144 C A R M E L M A G A Z I N E • W I N T E R 2 0 2 3 Photos: Courtesy of AFRP Volunteer Coordinator Aliah Ibarra and Board Members Michelle Starr and Angie Garelick pose with furry friends at the Walk to End Alzheimer's event in Monterey—one of the many community outreach events AFRP attends throughout the year. Whether it’s a temporary foster situation or an adoption by a forever family, finding the right fit doesn’t just benefit animals. The AFRP Treasure Shop, located at 221 Grand Avenue in Pacific Grove, offers a curated collection of secondhand clothing and household goods.