Everyone thinks rescue is only about animals.

Feb 02, 2026 9:48 pm

Hi there ,


Like so many in our Minnesota community, we are feeling the weight of uncertainty right now. What’s happening around us is affecting families, livelihoods, and it’s affecting animals too.


At Arrow’s Heart, we’re seeing a shift we can’t ignore.


More and more people are surrendering their pets, not because they don’t love them, but because they are scared of what the future may hold. They don’t want their animals left uncared for if things take a turn for the worse.


Here is the reality we are facing:


🐾 Surrenders are increasing, as people make heartbreaking decisions out of fear and uncertainty.

🐾 Adoptions have dropped, as many families hesitate to take on new responsibilities.

🐾 Animals continue to arrive from high-kill shelters in the South, where time is not on their side.


Animals are the silent victims of our social crises. We want to give them a voice, a safety net, because they have no fault in what’s happening.


Animals like 12-year-old Hank, with his charming underbite. These are the faces we see every day, and the faces this community is helping keep safe.


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This is why rescue is about people. People who believe that animals should be cared for in times of crisis, people like you, who adopt pets, volunteer their time or donate to support our cause.


Here are three powerful ways you can support animals in Minnesota (and those we bring north from high-kill areas) right now:


1️⃣ Adopt one of our animals


You recently applied to adopt from us. If you haven't yet found your new friend, we invite you to check out all the animals we have available on our Petfinder profile here. We just received several new dogs from our Southern state partners, so many cuties!


Check them out at our upcoming adoption events:


Saturday, February 7th: Elk River and Waite Park PetSmart from noon to 4


Sunday, February 8th: Plymouth PetSmart noon to 4. 


Sunday, February 15th: Elk River PetSmart from noon to 4. 


Saturday, February 21st: Elk River PetSmart, Waite Park PetSmart and Plymouth PetSmart from noon to 4. 


Saturday, February 28th: Elk River PetSmart from noon to 4


2️⃣ Become a Foster Family


If the animal you had your eye on was no longer available or you don't have a particular animal in mind, you might consider becoming a foster family.


Arrow’s Heart has no physical shelter—we rely entirely on foster homes. If you have space in your heart and home for a cat or dog, fostering provides immediate refuge while we search for a permanent family. You will, of course, have priority of adoption if you fall in love! Learn more here


3️⃣ Volunteer

We are a volunteer-run rescue. From transporting animals to vet appointments and adoption events, to helping with photos or hands-on care, every hour given helps save lives. Apply to be a volunteer here


We can’t imagine being separated from our own pets. That’s why we step up for those who don’t have a choice and for animals who are caught in circumstances far beyond their control.


💛 No animal should be left behind.


Thank you for being part of a community that chooses compassion, even in uncertain times.


With gratitude,


The Arrow’s Heart Animal Rescue Team 🐾


P.S. Another great way to help us respond to the growing needs of our community is by donating. This helps us keep adoption fees low, cover veterinary expenses and feed the animals in our care.


Support our work Today ❤️


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