A Mission of Rescue and Compassion
Founded by Staci Ventura and Eric Crespo, Adoption First Animal Rescue began its mission in 2013 to address the pressing need for animal rescue services in rural. With a vision of giving every pet a loving home, our animal rescue organization has grown into a trusted nonprofit, supported by a passionate team of volunteers and an experienced board of directors.
A Journey of Love and Rescue
Every milestone is a reminder of our commitment to animals and the community. Our journey continues with paws on the ground and hearts full of hope.
2013
The dream took shape as we completed all the paperwork to become a non-profit organization, setting the stage for our mission.
2014
Our first rescue brought a tail-wagging success. By the end of the year, we had saved over 100 dogs and built a passionate team.
2015
With official non-profit status from the IRS, we expanded our volunteer and foster network and began hosting impactful community events.
2016
While maintaining our foster-based program, we started planning for our first public rescue center. Grants and partnerships became a major focus.
2017
A milestone year with the grand opening of our first Rescue Center. Our foster program and volunteer numbers doubled, strengthening our reach.
2018
With more volunteers than ever before, we rescued over 500 dogs and enhanced our Rescue Center to provide even better care.
2019
Mobility met the opportunity with the purchase of our first Rescue Center Transport Van, making animal rescues and transportation easier.
2020
We welcomed our first in-house veterinarian, taking a big step toward providing immediate, on-site medical care.
2021
We built a dedicated surgery suite for in-house spay and neuter procedures and extended our care to cats, offering them a second chance.
2022
Making history in Onslow County, we opened the first low-cost spay and neuter clinic. With 3,795 animals spayed and neutered and over 800 pets rescued, we placed 785 pets into loving homes.
2023
A proud moment as we purchased our very own Rescue Facility, ensuring a secure space for pets in need and expanding our ability to save lives.
Supporting Lifesaving Care for Animals
Your support helps us save more animals and provide them with the care they deserve. Whether through adoption, volunteering, fostering, or donations, every action counts. Reach out to Adoption First Animal Rescue and be a part of something meaningful.