Welcome to May e-tails! Our monthly newsletter is dedicated to sharing the heart of Animal Rescue Rhode Island (ARRI). E-tails features inspiring success stories, happy updates from our shelter, and meaningful ways you can get involved.

From uplifting tales of hope to upcoming events, e-tails is your inside look at the lives you help to change every day.

Animal Rescue Rhode Island is honored to be named 2026 Nonprofit of the Year by the Southern Rhode Island Chamber of Commerce. This recognition reflects the compassion of our staff and volunteers, and the incredible support of our community.

Thank you to the Southern Rhode Island Chamber of Commerce for this recognition and to everyone who makes ARRI’s mission possible. We’re proud, grateful, and inspired to continue this work together.

- ARRI Team

Back in February, Phoebe had her five minutes of fame… and then some when her adoption post reached over 200K views, with 2,000+ likes and more than 70 applications. (We shouldn't be that surprised. She is inarguably adorable.) 

Because of that moment and because of this community, Phoebe has found her family.

Phoebe originally came to us from a backyard cat colony here in Rhode Island. But once she was safely trapped, it was clear she wasn't truly meant for outdoor feral cat life. She leaned into every touch and had the cutest little munchkin face that practically begged for a home and someone to love her. We knew she would be someone's everything. And now, she is exactly that. 

Her adopters recently shared:
“We're happy to share that Phoebe has acclimated very well to her new home! We absolutely adore her and she has become a wonderful part of our family. Thank you again for all your help throughout the adoption process and for everything you do for animals in need.”

It’s clear that Phoebe is right where she was always meant to be.

What makes this story even more special? Phoebe isn’t the only cat from her colony to capture hearts. Another kitty, Nutmeg, recently racked up over 66,000 likes on a single TikTok. Cats who once lived unnoticed outdoors are now being seen, celebrated and, most importantly, loved. It has been incredibly cool to see our small shelter make these little waves. 

And that doesn’t happen by chance.

It happens because of you.

Because you make this work possible: rescuing animals, giving them a chance to be seen, and connecting them with the people who will change their lives forever. Every share, every donation, every bit of support creates moments like this.

Phoebe is now warm, safe, and loved. And we could not be more happy to share stories like hers. Thank you all for your support, and thank you to Phoebe's adopters for treasuring her for all she is. 

The FurBall gala 2026 is just seven weeks away. Have you secured your tickets yet?

On Friday, June 19, from 6:00–11:00 PM, join us for an unforgettable evening of refined coastal elegance in support of homeless pets. Set at the iconic Dunes Club, the night will feature sweeping ocean views, a beautifully curated dining experience, and all the magic of a New England summer.

The evening will be emceed by Abbey Buttacoli of WJAR‑TV, a trusted and beloved voice in our community, and chaired by Sue and Lee Merrill, whose passionate support of ARRI helps make this extraordinary night possible. Guests will enjoy live jazz, an exclusive silent and live auction, and dancing as the evening unfolds.

Tables and tickets are on sale now.  Reserve your spot today.

This event will sell out!

Questions? Email events@animalrescueri.org

We can’t wait to see you at The FurBall on June 19th!

Thank you to our generous sponsor, Centreville Bank, for their leadership and support of FurBall 2026.

The results are in!

Thank you to everyone who visited and participated in Finishing Touches' Pet Photo Contest.

1st Place: Donut

2nd Place: Gus

3rd Place: Tie: Ooli & Yogi + Tino

Congrats to the winners!

More than $1,500 was raised during the month-long promotion in support of ARRI.  Adoptable Hunter and all the pets at ARRI are so grateful to Finishing Touches and the community for all your support.  THANK YOU! 

The 13th annual Pints for Paws has officially come to a close. An amazing $6,100 was raised this year! 

We're both honored and continually blown away by our community. We had such a great time celebrating together at our wrap-up party.

A big thank you to Mews Tavern for hosting this month-long event. They are such a bright spot in our community, and their commitment to giving back truly makes a difference. It’s especially meaningful to see their team come together, have fun, and pour that energy into helping the pets in ARRI’s care.

We’re also extremely grateful for the generous outpouring of pet food donations that will go directly toward caring for the animals who need us most. Thank you all for showing up, giving back, and making a real impact.

Pawpalooza is a community-driven initiative that brings together local businesses, animal lovers, and generous supporters like you—all working to help the animals at ARRI. It’s more than just a fundraiser; it’s a way to strengthen our community and make a lasting impact for the animals in our care.

We’re grateful to Greenwood Heating & Plumbing, Propane Plus, and Washington Trust for championing ARRI in the community this month.

Through pet food drives and customer engagement, these generous partners are helping spread compassion for homeless pets and making a real difference for animals in need.

Thank you for your kindness and support!

Interested in getting your company involved? Host your own ARRI “Other Event” through our Pawpalooza initiative and promote ARRI while giving back to the community.

Get involved today: Click Here
development@animalrescueri.org
401‑783‑7606 ext. 103

Join us for an exciting night of soccer and support a great cause!

ARRI is teaming up with Rhode Island FC for a special fundraiser during Hometown Heroes Night on Saturday, May 9th, at 7:30 PM, as Rhode Island FC takes on the Tampa Bay Rowdies.

When you purchase your tickets through our exclusive link, you’ll receive a special discounted rate and a portion of every ticket sold will go directly back to ARRI to help the animals in our care.

Our dogs and cats have been on their best behavior... and it seems we're going through our treat supply too fast! Will you help?

Treats may be dropped off at our shelter. Or, you can order on Chewy, Amazon, Pet Supplies Plus, or Walmart and have them shipped directly to ARRI:
506B Curtis Corner Rd, Peace Dale, RI 02879.

Thank you for your support!

Each month, ARRI celebrates a dedicated volunteer who goes above and beyond for our animals. This month’s honoree, Alicia, shared a bit about her experience:

Why do you volunteer at ARRI?

"I volunteer at ARRI because I genuinely enjoy spending time with the dogs. After my landlord told me I wasn’t able to adopt, I wanted to give back in a way that still allowed me to be around them. Walking the dogs is especially rewarding, it gives them exercise, mental stimulation, and a break from their kennel routine, which helps reduce stress and makes them more confident and adoptable. It’s also beneficial for me, providing fresh air, movement, and a sense of purpose. Knowing I’m helping enrich their lives while they wait for their forever homes makes volunteering deeply fulfilling."

What's your favorite part about volunteering at ARRI?

"My favorite part about volunteering is meeting new people and working alongside the friendly staff. Everyone is welcoming, which makes the experience enjoyable and makes it feel like a true community."

What is something you enjoy helping with at the shelter? 

"One thing I really enjoy helping with at the shelter is spreading the word and sharing the unique story of each dog I meet. I love helping people see each dog for who they are. My best friend adopted Neil earlier this year, and seeing him truly living his best life has been incredibly rewarding. He’ll soon be welcoming a baby brother; my friend is pregnant, and their joy with the adoption experience has been so fulfilling to witness. Knowing I played even a small role in helping create that happy outcome makes volunteering especially meaningful to me."

Thank you, Alicia, for dedicating your time and giving your heart to ARRI and the welfare of our animals!

Meet Kyro! 

Kyro, a sweet 5-year-old boy, has not had the easiest journey. He has a soft heart and an unforgettable teddy bear face. After his owner became seriously ill and could no longer care for him, Kyro suddenly found himself adjusting to life in the shelter after losing the only home he knew.

The transition has been difficult for him, and the stress of shelter life has started to take a toll. But even through all of the change and uncertainty, Kyro has remained a bright spot for our staff and volunteers. He has quickly become a favorite among our dog-walking volunteers thanks to his soft demeanor, affectionate nature, and excellent leash manners.

Kyro is house trained, knows “sit,” and is highly treat-motivated, making him both enjoyable to spend time with and eager to learn. Once he feels safe and comfortable, his sweet and loving personality truly begins to shine. He also appears to enjoy the company of other dogs.

More than anything, Kyro is looking for stability, patience, and a fresh start. After losing so much, he deserves the chance to feel safe, loved, and at ease again in a home of his own.

We would love nothing more than to see Kyro leave the shelter behind and begin his next chapter with a family who will give him the comfort and care he deserves.

To meet Kyro, call us at 401-783-7606, x 105, or complete an adoption questionnaire today. 

Donate Your Vehicle. Clear Space. Save Lives.

Have you heard about our partnership with CARS (Charitable Adult Rides & Services)? It’s a great way to finally clear out that vehicle that’s been sitting around collecting dust, while making a real difference for homeless pets!

We've teamed up with CARS to make donating your vehicle easier than ever. Cars, trucks, boats, RVs, & even farm equipment (running or not!) are accepted, with FREE pickup included. CARS handles everything from start to finish, and the net proceeds go directly to support ARRI’s lifesaving work. Plus, your donation is tax deductible!

Turn clutter into compassion. Donate your vehicle today:
https://careasy.org/nonprofit/animalrescuerhodeisland

Want more details?
https://www.animalrescueri.org/donate/vehicle-donations