Animal Rescue Force of South Florida, Inc.

Royal Palm Beach, Florida

On October 12, 1974 volunteers gathered at the Brunswick Square Mall with the hearts in their mouth, tears in their eyes full of anticipation but also fearful that the 10 animals that they had to adopt out would not be adopted, but soon enough their concerns would become history. The exhibit doors were officially opened at 10:00am and by 10:30am not only were the 10 homeless animals adopted but the volunteers had returned to the pound to rescue more animals. Consequently, by 7:00pm that evening the volunteers had found homes for an additional 117 animals.

During the next few months many obstacles were overcome. In January of 1975, it was suggested to build a “Petmobile”. A vehicle that would go to the pound, pick up the animals and take them to the shopping malls and adopt them out right from the “Petmobile”. In other words, take the pound to the people. Although, raising the funds to cover the expenses was another challenge, the volunteers once again found a way to overcome this challenge. Every year a township survey must be made of unlicensed dogs. By doing the survey the volunteers felt that they could raise enough funds to build their “Petmobile”. Others had done the survey in prior years and had turned in 300 names, so the 300 mark was set as their goal. By the end of the 6 week period, 1,703 names of unlicensed dogs were handed in. All of the volunteers went to work and from engineers, to businessmen, to secretaries and housewives, all hammered and painted to get the “Petmobile” rolling. Up until that time, the volunteers called themselves “The Concerned Citizens for Animals of East Brunswick”. However, on July 26, 1975, Animal Rescue Force, the “Petmobile”, was officially incorporated. During their first year, the “Petmobile” found homes for 1,057 dogs and cats.

Several years later, and many rescues, Jo Anne and her husband retired to Florida, and
left a successful rescue group in the hands of dedicated volunteers. Few years later, Jo Anne and her husband Ronny decided to start another rescue group in South Florida, and once again, ARF-The Petmobile was founded in Palm Beach County. After nine successful years, over 8,000 adoptions and three presidents later, the most recent president decided to retire and dissolve the organization. Although, it was a decision not accepted by the members, on a vote, 11/8, ARF-The Petmobile, was dissolved on August 9, 2005.

Immediately thereafter, once again, with the guidance of Jo Anne Garretson, the volunteers regrouped, a Board of Directors was formed, and with the assistance of one of the Directors, Steffani Martin, an application for incorporation was completed and submitted. The corporation was officially formed on September 2, 2005, followed by the 501 c 3 status, and with the direction of Peter J. Torres- President, Donald R. Wulff- vice-President, Kristin Larson-Recording Secretary, Edgar Colon-Corresponding Secretary, Jo Anne Garretson-Treasurer, Steffani Martin-Director, Robert Kussner-Director, Deon Jones- Director, Animal Rescue Force of South Florida, Inc. was founded.

“A.R.F’s” kick off event, the Delray Beach Garlic Fest was a huge success. During the event the group adopted 11 animals and raised a significant amount of funds. To-date, “A.R.F.” has been able to find good loving homes for numerous homeless animals. In addition, A.R.F. has secured two adoption locations; the Delray Beach Green Market, Delray Beach, and Petco, in West Palm Beach.

The group’s diligent efforts continue to be focused on finding homes for homeless pets and rescuing animals from local shelters, while promoting that every animal should be spayed or neutered.

Delray Green Market - East Atlantic Ave, Delray Beach (Saturdays 8am - 1pm))

Petco - Military /Okeechobee Blvd, West Palm Beach (Saturdays 10am-2pm)

Please call us for additional details!