Winter 2023

146 C A R M E L M A G A Z I N E • W I N T E R 2 0 2 3 Like many of the animals rescued by AFRP, Archer, a 1-year-old boxer mix, came to AFRP with an illness. After surviving parvoviris and living in foster care for over a year, he is healthy and happy and awaiting adoption. Photo: Robbie McCay small dogs, for example, or dogs that are hypoal- lergenic—and families can choose from short- term or long-term fostering timelines. “AFRP covers all the expenses and all the sup- plies. All we ask is that volunteers provide these animals with a loving home and a routine,” Starr says.“A regular routine gets them started on the right paw, if you will, and makes it so much easier for them to transition once they’re adopted.” Puppies tend to adapt to new situations more quickly, she adds, while older dogs might face more challenges. “Especially if they come from an owner sur- render situation, or they were dumped some- where and picked up by a Good Samaritan, these dogs don’t know why they’re no longer with their family. They don't know why they're outside of their normal environment. They just know that they’re alone and scared,” Starr says. Whether it’s a temporary foster situation or an adoption by a forever family, finding the right fit doesn’t just benefit animals. “Dogs and cats, they make everything better. Especially dogs. They’re so therapeutic, and they’re therapeutic without even having to try,” Starr says. “You can just look at a dog and your day is better.” For more information, call 831/333-0722 or visit www.animalfriendsrescue.org . The AFRP Treasure Shop, located at 221 Grand Avenue in Pacific Grove, sells gently used goods to support the nonprofit’s rescue, adoption and care efforts. Photo: Ibex Images Volunteers from the Defense Language Institute, Ashley Ruzicki, Tony Le and Chase Bitner, helping out at the Bow Wow Jamboree fundraiser in September.