The Florida Animal Rescue Alliance (FARA) began with a single act of compassion, rescuing one pig from a slaughterhouse during Thanksgiving three years ago. Today, it has evolved into a statewide network uniting sanctuaries that share resources, provide mutual support, and advocate for animals across Florida.
“Florida Animal Rescue Alliance is a network of sanctuaries across the state,” says co-founder Karol Lopez. “It all started with rescuing one pig, and it’s grown into a community connecting sanctuaries that support one another.”
FARA’s reach extends far beyond farm animals. With the help of partners like Grace Van de Pas, the organization helps coordinate rescues for pigs, dogs, cats, rabbits, and even birds, ensuring that each animal finds a safe and lasting home. “We’re now able to help identify animals, find the right facilities to care for them, and make sure every rescue leads to a long-term, quality life,” Van de Pas explains.
However, behind the heartwarming rescues lies a harsh reality. “Most sanctuaries are self-funded,” Lopez says. “When you drop off an animal, everything from food to medical care comes out of the owner’s pocket.” The Alliance hopes to bring awareness to these challenges while fostering collaboration among sanctuaries to share resources and reduce burnout.
FARA is also tackling one of Florida’s toughest issues: cat overpopulation. The team currently manages a project involving over 100 cats on private land, following the Alley Cat model of trust-building, humane trapping, spaying or neutering, and microchipping. The goal is to create sustainable, compassionate solutions that protect both animals and communities.
Beyond land-based rescues, FARA’s compassion extends to marine life. The group recently joined advocacy efforts surrounding the shutdown of the Miami Seaquarium, emphasizing the need for ethical, non-commercial sanctuaries for animals that cannot be released into the wild.
At its core, FARA’s mission revolves around compassion, education, and community. “Education is key,” says Van de Pas. “Many people just don’t know what responsible ownership looks like.”
FARA will celebrate its ongoing impact with a special community event at Zen Mystery in Dania Beach this November, featuring live music, local Vegan vendors, and inspiring stories from animal advocates. The event will be hosted by Vegans Explore founder Sean A. Russell, bringing together supporters from across South Florida to raise awareness and resources for sanctuaries in need.
There are many ways to support their work, from volunteering and fostering animals to donating supplies or simply spreading the word.
To learn more, visit FARA’s website or follow @floridaanimalrescuealliance on social media.
As Vegans Explore host Sean A. Russell reminds us, “Change starts with compassion. Together, we can build a kinder Florida for all beings.”
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