Founded in 2010, Friends of Animal Rescue was formed on the belief that there is a home for every animal. The organization is a state-licensed quarantine facility and a no-kill shelter for the City of South Padre Island. Friends of Animal Rescue believes in community involvement, educational programs, and being a resource to all animals in need.

Friends of Animal Rescue does even more for animals than what meets the eye. The business comprises two parts: the animal shelter and the Rescue ME Resale.

 

SERVING ANIMALS AND THE COMMUNITY

The animal shelter serves to house lost and homeless animals, even nursing them back to health if needed, before putting them up for adoption. Friends of Animal Rescue works with the City of South Padre Island Police Department and Code Enforcement to reunite lost dogs and cats on the island through their 24-hour hotline. The business goes above and beyond for the community, providing low-cost vaccine and microchip clinics throughout the year and offering free canine obedience classes with trainers in the fall.

To best bring the community and the animals of Friends of Animal Rescue together, the business offers volunteer opportunities where individuals can take a dog or cat for the day for walks, help the animals socialize, or just be a part of your day out on the island. So dog lovers, come make your beachside walks even more memorable with a furry friend at your side. And cat lovers, come pick up a cuddly companion for the day to lounge with back at the condo. Who knows, they might turn into a friend for life.

 

RESCUE ME RESALE SHOP

Step inside Friends of Animal Rescue and you’ll find the Rescue ME Resale store: an innovative effort that makes a real difference for both the community and its animals. Locals can donate gently used goods or browse everything from pet supplies and clothing to furniture, vintage treasures, and more. Best of all, every purchase helps support the care of animals right here in the community.

 

ADOPTIONS

At Friends of Animal Rescue, visitors can apply to adopt any of the dogs or cats on site. The application process helps ensure each animal is headed to a safe, loving home.

Pups like Mars and Jupiter are all wagging tails and happy energy, just waiting for the right person to come along.

Black dog on a leash sitting in the grass and looking up at a handler at Friends of Animal Rescue.Friends of Animal Rescue - Brown Dog

Some animals arrive at the shelter with serious injuries and in need of extra care. One-year-old Jacob was one of them—but thanks to Friends of Animal Rescue, he received everything he needed to heal and thrive. Now, a year later, he’s healthy, happy, and waiting for his forever home.

Tabby cat resting in a cozy bed inside a kennel at Friends of Animal Rescue in South Padre Island.

When adopted, all animals are fully vaccinated, neutered, microchipped, and on flea and tick preventative medication.

 

PET TIPS FOR SUMMER FUN ON SPI

With summer in full swing and vacation plans heating up, here are a few tips to help keep your furry friend safe and happy on South Padre Island:

  • Watch those paws! Sand and pavement can get dangerously hot—avoid walks during peak sun hours.
  • Leashes are a must. By law, all pets must be kept on a leash while out and about.
  • No saltwater sips. Always bring fresh water—salt water makes pets sick.
  • Fireworks can be scary. Keep pets safe and secure indoors during firework shows.
  • Lost or found a pet? Call our 24-hour hotline at (956) 772-1171 for help.

 

LOCATION AND HOURS OF OPERATION

Friends of Animal Rescue is located at 4908 Padre Blvd. and is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

 

DONATIONS

If you’d like to help Friends of Animal Rescue help the animals, feel free to donate in any of the following ways:

  • Cash App: $spifoar

  • PayPal: spifoar@gmail.com

  • Checks may be sent to: PO Box 2126 SPI, TX 78597

Every donation is truly appreciated by both the people and the animals.