Record-Breaking Number of Adoptions Seen      

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – The Little Rock Animal Village set even more records in 2016, with nearly 2,800 animals saved through adoptions, reunions with families and rescue organization transfers. More than 1,800 adoptions were seen, eclipsing the record of 1,647 set in 2015. The number of animals coming into the shelter has dropped to an all-time low as well.

“Thanks to a dedicated team of staff and volunteers, the Animal Village has made tremendous strides when it comes to helping animals and finding them forever homes,” City Manager Bruce T. Moore said. “It is encouraging to see that through these efforts, the quality of life has been improved for so many in our community, including the animals that are rescued.”

The Animal Village introduced several initiatives in 2016, including a partnership with Fox Valley Humane Association in Wisconsin that brought the BarkBus to Little Rock as part of a new canine transport program.

Along with the Friends of the Animal Village nonprofit group, the Animal Village started a heartworm program that has so far helped 148 dogs receive treatment and go on to be adopted out. Additionally, 4 tons of dog food was donated as part of the PetSmart Charities partnership. 

The Animal Village also rolled out a pilot program that places healthy feral cats with businesses that need safe pest control in the hopes that felines that aren’t suitable for traditional adoption would find a home. Adoption and training is free, with the business agreeing to provide shelter, food and water, and veterinary care.

Additionally, cat adoptions continue through partnerships with area PetSmart and PetCo locations.

“The year-over-year progress we’ve made shows that our efforts are starting to pay off and we are truly making an impact on the number of unwanted and stray animals,” Animal Services Manager Tracy Roark said. “In 2017, we will continue to explore long-term ways we can reduce the number of unwanted, stray and feral cats. While more than 950 cats were saved this year, a new record, there is still so much we can do to help.”

Little Rock Animal Village at 4500 Kramer Street features a fully staffed veterinary clinic that regularly hosts low-cost spay and neuter services, an adoption center, five large play yards for dogs, and a learning center where volunteers can promote animal welfare and public safety initiatives. The village receives supplemental financial and promotional support from Friends of the Animal Village, a nonprofit dedicated to increasing pet adoptions in Little Rock.