Our Mission
Animal Rescue Rhode Island (ARRI) is dedicated to rescuing companion animals in need and to the humane welfare of homeless animals.
Our Vision
To be a role model rescue organization focused on achieving compassionate and responsible care for all companion animals through: a) highly regarded animal revitalization programs; b) contemporary humane education; and c) forward-thinking adaptation to an ever-changing animal welfare environment.
Our Values
Compassion
Respect
Empathy
Integrity
Our Promise
ARRI rescues abandoned, abused, and surrendered animals without geographic limitation. We go to any length to nurture and revitalize the animals in our care in order for them to become successfully adopted pets in loving homes.
We make a steadfast pledge that no animal is ever euthanized because of time, space, breed, or humanely treatable condition. We pride ourselves on providing a safe, healthy, and loving environment.
Central to our mission is the responsibility to enlighten and inspire our community as teachers and advocates by providing humane education and a voice for homeless companion animals.
Funded by the generosity of our loyal donors, ARRI’s compassionate team of trustees, staff, and trained volunteers work tirelessly each day to deliver on our promise.
Our History
In 1938, a group of concerned citizens recognized the need for a humane organization dedicated to the protection and care of stray, abandoned, and abused animals. They founded the Animal Rescue League of Southern Rhode Island (ARLSRI), establishing themselves as a non-profit organization in 1970.
Now known as Animal Rescue Rhode Island (ARRI), the shelter has gone from its location in a barn supported only by volunteers, to the beautiful facility ARRI calls home today. Here, ARRI staff and volunteers continue to care for approximately 35 cats, 20 dogs, and other small animals, such as rabbits and guinea pigs, at any given time.
Today ARRI is well-known across RI and beyond. We have many adopters coming to us from neighboring states and also accept pets from owners who are unable to keep them, whether they reside within or outside of RI. While many things have changed, our need for support remains the same. ARRI still depends on donations, fundraisers, and grants to provide top quality care and adoption services for more than 600 pets each year. Our success is possible only because of generous supporters like you!
