About Us | ARF Humane Society of Jackson County

ARF is a network of foster parents, animal lovers, business owners, and local community members working to serve animals and pet owners in Jackson County. Our board members and volunteers are constantly busy transporting, rescuing, vetting, grant writing, fundraising, and assisting community members.

About Our Organization

ARF (Humane Society of Jackson County) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of dogs in our community. Since 1978, we have focused on reducing pet overpopulation and helping dogs find safe, loving homes. Our tax-exempt status can be verified through the IRS (EIN: 56-1575881).

A core part of our mission is making spay and neuter services accessible and affordable. In partnership with Catman2, ARF coordinates monthly transports to the ASPCA Spay/Neuter Alliance for dogs and cats across the region. By helping pet owners access these services, we are working to prevent unwanted litters and reduce the number of animals entering local shelters.

We also rescue and rehome dogs through our foster-based program. Our dogs live in caring foster homes where they receive the attention, structure, and socialization they need to thrive. ARF provides food, supplies, and veterinary care, while our foster families provide the time and care that prepare each dog for a successful adoption.

ARF is powered by a dedicated Board of Directors, volunteers, and valued community partners, including Sylva Animal Hospital and the Sylva Pet Stop. If you are looking for a meaningful way to get involved, we are always happy to welcome new volunteers and foster families.

Preventing Overpopulation.
Creating Second Chances.

ARF & JCAS: Two Organizations, One Shared Mission

ARF and the Jackson County Animal Shelter (JCAS) are close partners with a shared goal: supporting pets and the people who care for them in our community. While we often work side by side, we serve different roles.

Jackson County Animal Shelter is a municipally funded shelter that includes Animal Control for Jackson County. They operate a physical facility for dogs and cats that is open to the public during set hours.

ARF Humane Society of Jackson County is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. We do not have a physical shelter. Instead, all of our dogs live in foster homes until they are adopted. We also partner with Catman2 and the ASPCA Spay/Neuter Alliance to provide low-cost spay and neuter services for residents of Jackson, Macon, and Swain counties.

Together, ARF and JCAS collaborate to improve outcomes for local animals. ARF’s office is located within JCAS, and our organizations regularly work together to support adoptions, expand access to resources, and strengthen animal welfare across Jackson County.