Washington Animal Rescue League

The Washington Animal Rescue League rescues, rehabilitates and rehomes abused and neglected animals. We are committed to strengthening the human-animal bond through affordable veterinary care, community outreach and education.

How do you help people in my community?

The League participates in a number of community programs in the metropolitan area. 

• Primarily, we find pets for more than 2,000 adopters in Washington, DC and its suburbs. 
• Free spay/neuter service and subsidized veterinary care is available to income-qualified people in the District of Columbia, and the hospital offers free pit bull and feral cat spaying, neutering, and health screening clinics.
• The Rescuer’s Food Bank provides pet food for eligible families who might otherwise have been forced to relinquish their pets.  The food bank eases the stress associated with feeding pets in times of financial struggle, thus keeping intact the bond between pets and their families.
• The Safe Haven Program provides temporary shelter for the pets of victims of domestic violence while the abused women transition to a stable and safe home. The thought of leaving a beloved pet behind often deters women from fleeing abusive situations. The League cares for these animals at no cost to the guardian until the woman finds housing where animals are accepted and the pet can be welcomed into the new, safe home.

 These services help control and maintain animals, keeping the community safe and healthy while easing the financial strain on pet owners.

 Another essential component of the League’s mission is to educate the public on the needs of companion animals and to inspire people to treat all living beings with care, compassion, and respect. Outreach and education occur through the humane education curriculum, which teaches school children about animal overpopulation, spaying and neutering, proper care for companion animals, the role of animal shelters, and co-existence with wildlife. The Washington Animal Rescue League also accepts student/parent volunteer teams to aid area high school students in completing their Student Service Learning graduation requirements.

Why do you need my support?

 All donations are greatly needed and appreciated at the Washington Animal Rescue League, regardless of their size. We also have a “wish list” of appliances, tools, and pet care items. The donations directly fund the day-to-day operations of the shelter and Medical Center. The community education, animal rehabilitation, and veterinary care assistance programs are made possible through donations, and it is because of donors’ willingness to help that we have become one of the foremost animal shelters in the country.

 The League was founded in 1914, and after almost a century, our outreach continues to grow, providing unique support and care for companion animals and the people who love them.  Our newly renovated facility promises that we will be able to fulfill our mission well into the future.  The young veterinarians that the League’s Medical Center trains will work to keep animals healthy and safe for years to come. Humane education ensures that this generation of DC’s young people learns more about treating animals ethically and appreciating their companionship.

 Because we do not receive public funds, our generous donors make it possible for the Washington Animal Rescue League to continue its work. Donations of all sizes are needed to ensure the welfare of DC’s companion animals and their guardians every day and for years to come.

How can I be sure that you will use my money wisely and won't waste it?

 The Washington Animal Rescue League does not receive funds from any local government.  We also rely heavily on hundreds of volunteers and engage them in all departments, resulting in a small full-time staff.  Because so many people volunteer their time, donors can be assured that their contributions will go far towards helping us attain the League’s goals.  Also, many people choose to donate goods, so if the League does not need to buy tools or appliances, we can allocate more funds to caring for the animals who pass through our doors.

 Our board of directors comprises 23 members, none of whom is also on the League’s staff. Goodwill, prudent leadership, and a passion for our cause motivates the board to serve unpaid, and many of them are also major donors. More support can reach the animals who so desperately need help because the board volunteers their time and resources.

 Additionally, the League is audited annually, and the audits are available on our public Guidestar profile online or via request to the League. An annual report will soon be visible on our website, allowing donors to track the League’s spending and see the programs thriving from their contributions.

Can I Volunteer? How?

Absolutely! The Washington Animal Rescue League relies heavily on volunteers to care for animals. Volunteers can walk dogs, socialize with cats, counsel adopters, stuff development mailings, coordinate special events, assist in the hospital or shelter, and provide foster care for animals. Children between the ages of 12 and 17 may become junior volunteers when a parent or guardian becomes a volunteer as well. More information is available on our website at warl.org/volunteer.  Every year, hundreds of people donate their time to volunteer at the League, but more volunteers are always welcomed.