By: Matthew Phillips

Next Saturday, June 14, the Troy Animal Rescue Project (TARP), a nonprofit organization, invites the community to its adoption event at Tractor Supply from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. 

The Troy Animal Rescue Project is currently housing over 470 animals, including more than 250 dogs, 100 cats and kittens, 60 guinea pigs and 60 rabbits, and the shelter is stretched to its limits.

“We are overwhelmed,” said shelter manager Kayleigh White. “We try to help by transporting animals to other partners, but many don’t realize we continue to have a waitlist. Those kennels get filled the same day or the next.” 

Adoption fees cover veterinary care and vary by animal. Dogs cost $100, which includes heartworm testing, spaying or neutering, rabies shots and flea medicine. Cats are $50 and come spayed or neutered, microchipped, vaccinated and up to date on rabies. Guinea pigs are $25, and rabbits range from $25 to $75 depending on age and whether they’ve been fixed. 

For those not ready to fully commit to adopting, fostering is another option, and one that does not require financial investment. 

“If you are not able to afford vet bills, food or supplies but want to help, fostering is a great way to give a dog a life outside the shelter,” White said. “We provide everything, including food, crates, leashes and vet care, while you just provide a temporary home.” 

White stressed why shelters like theirs are essential to the community.

“There are so many strays, including cats, dogs and even bunnies,” she said. “We try to help control the population by getting animals spayed and neutered and making sure they stay fixed when adopted. Alabama law requires it for rescue animals.”

The shelter is also in desperate need of supplies, with dog food being a necessity. 

 “Our biggest need right now is dog food,” White said. “Just three days’ worth costs about $1,000. We also need pine shavings, cat litter, rags, blankets and wet food for kittens and puppies. So, any and all donations are greatly appreciated and go a long way.” 

Donations can be made easily through the shelter’s website, at https://troyanimalrescueproject.org/donate/, via CashApp at https://cash.app/$troyanimalrescue, or on Venmo @troyanimalrescue. Items can also be dropped off at Whaley Pecan in Troy or mailed to 34 County Road 2266 in Brundidge.

For more information and details to adopt visit troyanimalrescueproject.org.