FGCU students, who are part of a group for a Foundation in Civic Engagement course, created items for the Animal Refuge Center.
The Animal Refuge Center is a not-for-profit, no-kill shelter located in North Fort Myers.
“There weren’t enough beds for the dogs, so our group decided to make them ourselves,” said Alexa Trenk, a junior environmental studies major. “We went out and bought materials for beds and toys and treats and made them for ARC.”
Because of the size of the center, ARC is constantly looking for more volunteers to help out with the care of the pets. Volunteers would work with the pets — mostly dogs—by playing with them, bathing them and walking them.
According to the ARC website, the center is now placing about 500 dogs and cats into new homes every year through adoption. The website includes a search page to view pets at the center for people who may be interested in adopting.
Dogs and cats are also available for adoption off-site at the Petco at the Forum in Fort Myers on Saturdays and the Petco in Gulf Coast Town Center on Sundays.
All animals are spayed or neutered and have been tested for worms prior to being eligible for adoption.
According to the website, “Through public education and an active spay and neuter program, ARC strives to reduce the number of unwanted animals in the community.”
The center is located on about 400 acres of land to house all of the abandoned pets.
To volunteer for ARC, visit the volunteer page at animalrefugecenter.com or call 239-731-3535.
FGCU students can help ARC by making a monetary donation online or donating an item from the online wish list.