Almost Home Canine Rescue (AHCR) was founded in Madison, South Dakota. In Early 2018, the group was re-established in Sioux Falls, South Dakota area by a group of passionate animal lovers. While they are now based in Sioux Falls, they continue to have a large presence in Madison through community events and assisting the Madison Animal Shelter. Their ongoing presence not only fulfills their mission, it also assists in reducing the overpopulation of animals in the area and the surrounding communities. Controlling overpopulation is the foundation on which their organization was established, which is why we love partnering with them!
Dark Dog Posse recently had an opportunity to chat with Katie Day, the director at Almost Home Canine Rescue, to find out more about them. Here is what she had to share with us.
Tell us about Almost Home Canine Rescue (AHCR).
AHCR is a 501c3 non-profit organization that is 100 percent volunteer-run and serves to help abandoned animals find new homes. Any of our board members would be glad to answer any questions at [email protected].
Almost Home Canine Rescue recognizes the need for diversity and inclusion so that we may carry out our mission to serve unwanted, homeless, abused, or neglected pets in South Dakota and the surrounding area. Just as every dog and cat has needs that, our mission works to fulfill that need, as do our donors, volunteers, fosters, and adopters. All involved play a vital role in the success of our mission no matter their gender, race, ethnicity, national origin, age, sexual orientation or identity, education, or disability. All are valued and respected and we work to ensure all voices are heard.
What was the motivation behind starting a rescue?
I was contacted to take the rescue over. A brief meeting happened, and the rest is history. I felt as if I couldn’t see all the hard work going into establishing the rescue go to waste.
Tell us about the services you provide.
Roughly 95 percent of our dogs come off a local reservation. When we have fosters open and our finances aren’t hurting we will help local shelters and owner surrenders. Every animal that comes in gets an exam, is spayed or neutered, given all age-appropriate vet recommended vaccines, heartworm test is over six months of age, given monthly preventatives, and if any medical issues are found they are treated before they are adopted whether it be orthopedic, dental cleaning, etc.
You also offer business sponsorships. Tell us about that.
Our business sponsorship program is an annual giving initiative to raise funds while promoting local businesses. We provide four tiers and each has their own benefits. Our Happy Paws level is a $500 donation and in return they receive a sticker to display at their business. The Wet Noses level is a $1,000 donation and in return they receive a sticker to display and we display their logo on our website. Our Wagging Tails tier is a $1,500 donation and they receive a certificate to display, their logo on our website, and a shout out on our social media page. And the Top Dog level is a $2,000 donation and receives a certificate to display, business name on our website, shout out on social media, and their logo displayed at community events.
How else can others (individuals) help?
We always need more fosters. That’s usually what’s needed most besides donations including: monetary, food, litter, toys, leashes, Clorox wipes, puppy pads, paper towels, carpet cleaner spray, treats, and rawhide-free chews.
Is there anything that sets you apart from other rescues/shelters?
We do not let animals be adopted without being fixed. Too much of a risk. We also help owners with feeding their pets if they fall on hard times.
Why is saving animals important to your organization?
We know there is such a great need for this line of work. We need to make sure we are their voice. There are so many groups that help humans, and we need to make sure the animals have help as well.
Is there a story behind the Almost Home name or your logo?
It was all acquired when we re-established to Sioux Falls.
Is there anything else you’d like to add?
Reach out if you would like to help. We always need more volunteers and fosters. If you can’t help financially, share our social media posts!