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How FTF and Animal Rescue Corps. Partnership Helps to Save Lives - Part 1

If you’ve ever read the bios for the FTF dogs, either because you're thinking about adopting or just like looking at cute canines, you’ve probably noticed that many come from outside of Illinois. So how do these pooches end up in the Chicago area to find their forever homes? In a word: partnerships.


Each year, FTF partners with several animal rescue groups, particularly those in southern states with high euthanasia rates, to save the lives of hundreds of dogs. Animal Rescue Corps (ARC), whose main rescue center is located in central Tennessee, is one of those partners. ARC conducts large- and small-scale emergency rescues and has had a huge impact on animal welfare in the United States, according to Jamie P., a member of the FTF intake team.

Jana (standing center) in an abandoned trailer during her rescue by Animal Rescue Corp.
Jana (standing center) in an abandoned trailer during her rescue by Animal Rescue Corp.

“ARC helps animals who are victims of disaster, neglect, and abuse, including those from puppy mills, hoarding situations, poorly run breeding operations, and animal testing facilities,” Jamie explains. “Because of the enormity of the animal welfare problem, ARC relies on the assistance of rescue groups around the country. FTF appreciates the work ARC does, and we’re thrilled to support them as much as we can.” 


Here’s how the process works. ARC is on-site for every rescue, then temporarily houses the animals while they are evaluated and receive medical attention. During this period, volunteers start socializing the dogs, many of whom have never had any human interaction. Once the ARC staff feels a group of rescues is ready for transfer, and any legal issues related to their neglect/cruelty cases are resolved, their names and descriptions are listed for placement, and ARC’s rescue partners are notified. Since another ARC rescue operation is often just around the corner, every effort is made to place the dogs and transport them to rescue partners as quickly as possible. At FTF, transport coordinator Steve A. works with the FTF volunteers to receive the arriving animals; get them fed, walked, and fitted with collars/harnesses; take their photos, provide them with preventative and/or therapeutic medications; and get them settled into temporary suites or foster homes.


“As an all-breed rescue, FTF tries to commit to accepting a variety of dogs, taking into consideration their health status, foster requirements, and our current capacity,” says Jamie. “We want to be fair to both the dogs we accept and our volunteers, making sure we are well-equipped to handle each animal’s unique medical and emotional needs.”  


In the spring of 2021, FTF received its first ARC rescues. Black Lab mix Calton was a 1-year-old stray who came from the Oxford, Mississippi, Community Shelter, which had closed due to overcrowding and inadequate care. Calton’s backstory was unknown, but within a couple of days living in an FTF foster home, his good manners, gentle demeanor (he even liked cats!), and devotion convinced the family that he was meant to be their dog. And just like that, Calton found his forever home. 

Calton
Calton

Floral, a 3-year-old schnauzer mix, was one of 47 dogs rescued from a horrifying case of animal hoarding in southern Louisiana. Not surprisingly, Floral (now Phoebe) adored other dogs but was timid with people and, according to adopters Kristen and David A., scared of everything. 


 “Accidentally dropping something on the floor, kicking off our shoes, or any sudden unexpected movement would send Phoebe running,” reports Kristen. “But from the very first night, she slept in our bed and wanted to cuddle.”


Over the past 3-plus years, Phoebe has become a well-adjusted, happy, and brave girl. She mastered the terrifying doggie door in just a few days, became best friends with her canine brother Samas, and learned that people can provide an endless supply of pets, belly rubs, and treats.

Floral
Floral

“I would say it took Phoebe at least 6 months to feel completely comfortable in our home, maybe a bit longer,“ Kristen says. “Now she is SO COMFORTABLE that the spoiled princess thinks everything revolves around her! We are blessed to have Phoebe in our lives!”


To date, FTF has rescued 103 ARC dogs, the most recent being 11 small mixed breed dogs (among a group of 23) found living in a tiny, filthy trailer in Tennessee and now settling into their new lives here in Chicago. In the center of the first photo at the beginning of the story is sweet Jana.

Jana
Jana

Jana and her friends have arrived at our Adoption Rescue Center intake facility, and soon she will be placed in a foster home while she receives all needed medical care and is cleared for adoption.


“In my opinion, ARC represents what rescue is all about, and we feel privileged to partner with them,” concludes Jamie. 


In Part 2 of this story, we’ll share some of the more recent adoption success stories that have resulted from the ARC/FTC partnership. If you would like to help foster one of our recent arrivals, please fill out a form on our website here.


-Written By: Michele G.


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