By Michele Smith

Born out of their passion to save animals, Heather Enajibi and Erin Halter of Burien started Animal Aid and Rescue Foundation (AARF) in 2010 and have rescued and found loving homes for more than 500 animals (dogs, cats, turtles and guinea pigs), with 39 dogs adopted so far in 2015.  

Erin and Heather are passionate about helping people keep their animals.  “We've heard of many cases where people surrender their animals to shelters because they can't afford to feed them or had to have their animals euthanized when they got ill or injured because they couldn't afford the medical care,” states Halter.  In 2012 AARF Angel Fund was created to aid with pet food and vet care for these cases.

AARF does not have a facility and rely solely on boarding facilities and foster homes. Annually the vet bills alone exceed $20,000 with boarding fees reaching the same numbers. AARF has no paid staff, only volunteers. In 2013 Angie Deccio and Nancy Chesnutt took over operations and work with five volunteers to do most of the day-to-day functions. Several other volunteers step in when needed and currently there are 12 foster homes but many more are needed. All of the donations raised go directly to cover the costs associated with rescuing the animals and placing them into their forever homes.

The 7th Annual Whine and Cheese fundraiser is Friday, June 26  from 7 pm –10 pm at the Pit Stop Bottle Shop in Burien. The event is emceed by local musicians. There is a raffle, silent auction and live auction and of course wine and cheese.  Advanced tickets are $25 per person ($30 at the door) and include two drink tickets and one raffle ticket. This year VIP Tickets have been added for $50 per person that include two drink tickets, one raffle ticket and a swag bag. 

Check out the details on Facebook here:  https://www.facebook.com/events/865049963553553/
Purchase advanced tickets here: http://www.myaarf.org/

Can't attend, but want to donate: http://www.myaarf.org/
Or send check to:
Animal Aid and Rescue Foundation
PO Box 328
Seahurst, WA  98062

Pit Stop Bottle Shop
216 SW 153rd St/
Burien, WA 98166
(206) 420-8412