Break In at AARF Pet Central

Break In at Pet Shelter / Community Pet Center

Renovations Halted, Opening Delayed

STONE MOUNTAIN, GEORGIA - May 7, 2011 - Just a month before renovations at AARF Pet Central should be completed, thieves have broken in and stolen critical tools, computer equipment, fixtures and pet supplies. As a result, renovations at the new community pet center in Stone Mountain have come to a standstill, delaying the opening of this desperately needed shelter, adoption, training, retail and education location. The rescue group opening the facility, Atlanta Animal Rescue Friends (AARF), is hoping to be able to afford to replace the stolen items with help from the Atlanta community.

Says AARF Director Susan Leisure, "We are devastated by this theft. We have been renovating for several months and were hoping to be open by early June. Once we are open, we will be able to help homeless pets find new homes and serve as a resource for pet owners who may be struggling to keep their pets." With the county shelters overflowing, this new resource will be a welcome addition to Atlanta's animal welfare community. "I was just at the DeKalb County shelter today, and I know how how many pets are waiting for rescue," explains Leisure. "Now, I don't know when we'll be able to open our doors." According to Leisure, the renovation budget has been exhausted by unexpected repairs and delays in construction. AARF has no extra funds to replace the stolen items.

The 4,000 square foot facility in Stone Mountain Village will have a cat adoption center, offer dog adoption days and training classes on the weekends, host humane education classes and offer pet supplies at affordable prices.

For more information about AARF and their new community pet center, AARF Pet Central, visit the AARF website at http://www.aarfatlanta.org. Details about AARF Pet Central are available at http://aarfcentral.blogspot.com/.

Donations to help AARF replace the stolen items can be made online at the organization's website or mailed to AARF, 6570 James B. Rivers Dr, Stone Mountain, GA 30083. Email AARF at info@aarfatlanta.org or call 678-534-3483 with any questions about AARF Pet Central or donations.