Animal Adoption and Rescue Foundation
Our Mission
The Animal Adoption and Rescue Foundation of Winston-Salem (AARF) is dedicated to finding loving homes for cats and dogs through a commitment to rescue, professional veterinary services, thoughtful foster care, and community education.
Our Story
Founded in 1995 by a passionate group of animal advocates, AARF has grown from a small collective into a vital community resource. In 2022, we proudly moved into our state-of-the-art, 6,000-square-foot facility to better serve the pets and people of Winston-Salem.
How We Rescue
AARF is a foster-based rescue, meaning most of our animals thrive in loving, temporary homes until they meet their forever families. As a no-kill organization, we specialize in providing medical care and training for animals who may struggle to find support elsewhere, ensuring every pet receives the dignity they deserve.
The Adopter Connection
We believe in building lifelong partnerships, which is why we prioritize finding the perfect match for both the animal and your unique lifestyle. Our individualized, relational adoption process ensures that each adoption is set up for long-term success and mutual happiness.
Find Your Best Friend
Your new companion is waiting to change your life in the best way possible. We invite you to explore our available dogs and cats online, join us for our Saturday adoption fairs at the AARF House, or fill out an application to start your journey toward adoption today.
- Thorough vetting process
- Staff dedication
- Operational friction regarding intake capacity
10/14 - A Fur-Raising, Fun Time for Dogs and Their Humans
Light the jack-o-lantern, dress up your pup, and head to Mast General Store! The Winston-Salem Mast Store hosts Dogs Night Out Howl-o-ween, 6 - 8 p.m., Thursday, October 22.
9/23 - Pet of the Day: Willow has a lot of love to give and looking to share it with you
WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. (WGHP) — Meet Willow, our FOX8 Pet of the Day! If you’re interested in adopting this pet or any other pets at AARF, please call (336) 768-7387 or visit the AARF website. AARF is…
9/16 - Pet of the Day: Pebbles is looking to make a forever home with you
WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. (WGHP) — Meet Pebbles, our FOX8 Pet of the Day! If you’re interested in adopting this pet or any other pets at AARF, please call (336) 768-7387 or visit the AARF website. AARF i…
9/29 - ADOPT AUGGIE! 🐾 This 6‑month‑old cutie is full of energy, loves playing with his littermates, and can turn any random floor find into the best toy ever. He gets along great with the older cats in his foster home and would thrive with another young feline friend. When he’s done adventuring, he’s all cuddles and purrs — a tiny snuggle bug with a big personality. If you’re looking for a playful, affectionate kitten, Auggie might be your perfect match. #adoptacat #adoptdontshop #rescuedismyfavoritebreed
Watch on Instagram
9/25 - Every Saturday, our adoptable cats and dogs come to the AARF Adoption Fair with one simple wish: to finally be seen by the person who feels like home. Some have been waiting weeks. Some have been waiting months. All of them are ready for love, ready for connection, and ready for their fresh start. If you’ve been thinking about adopting or even just wanting a little joy, a few cuddles, or a moment of sweetness, stop by tomorrow. Meet the faces behind the stories, learn their personalities, and see who chooses you. 🐱Cats: 11-2 🐶Dogs: 11-1 📍 AARF House, 302 Thurston Street, Winston-Salem Even if you’re not ready to adopt, your visit means the world. A kind word, a gentle pet, a little attention - it all matters more than you know. Come help make tomorrow a good day for a pet who’s been waiting for one. Visit www.aarfws.org to meet our cats and dogs and to learn more about the adoption process. #adoptdontshop #adoptionfair #rescuedismyfavoritebreed
Watch on Instagram
