AARF rescues, rehabilitates and re-homes abandoned, abused and unwanted animals. The Stoney Creek resident established the foundation in 1998 and works with Hamilton Animal Control to rescue dogs that would otherwise be euthanized. She also helps owner-surrendered dogs.

“AARF helps those who cannot help themselves. It’s not an animal’s fault where they end up being or for circumstances in a family,” said Maerz, adding much of the work she does is in memory of her owner-surrendered shepherd, Tessa. “It’s not easy work, emotionally, physically or financially, but there’s just something in me. It’s in my heart.”

Maerz says animal control dogs have nowhere to go.

“Either a dog goes to rescue or it gets put to sleep. Hamilton Animal Control works with me and gives me time, but the bottom line is, when space runs out, a dog’s time runs out, so I do what I can,” she said. “In this economy, the surge of homeless animals is so high. There are many animal control dogs that are in great need of a foster or permanent home.”

Maerz makes sure dogs that come into the rescue are fully vetted. They are vet checked, wormed, treated for fleas if necessary, spayed/neutered and micro chipped. She also spends time with the dogs to get to know their personality to ensure the right foster or permanent home match.

“Matching depends on the dog, its age, health issues and energy level. I also don’t adopt out to homes with small children,” she said. “A lot of dogs come in as strays and I don’t have an exact history on them, so there are a lot of unknowns like have they been around small children, are they socialized well, etc. In the best interest of a family and my responsibility to the dog, I just won’t risk it.”

Maerz seeks out foster and permanent homes through her site, www.aarfrescue.petfinder.com , where she posts photos of and information on dogs in urgent need of a safe haven.

While searching for foster and permanent homes, Maerz boards dogs at All Seasons Kennels, where she has two kennel spaces. The kennel provides one space, a community member sponsors the other. Because of limited space, Maerz also seeks out other reputable rescues to see if they can help by taking in a dog.

“AARF is strictly a not-for-profit rescue and receives no funds from any agency, corporation or government. It relies solely on the kindness and generosity of the community,” she said. “For those whose lifestyle may not be suited for fostering or adopting, there’s also the option of sponsoring a dog for a space at a kennel. That means one life saved, which gives me time to seek out a foster or permanent home for them.”

No matter what option someone chooses there’s one thing for certain, says Maerz.

“I believe that dogs carry a lot of emotion and feeling. I see the desperation in their eyes every time I walk into Hamilton Animal Control, they know what’s about to happen,” she said. “Animals have no voice. But if they did, they would tell you saving them from death and providing them with any kind of a safe haven means all the difference in the world.”

AARF rescues, rehabilitates and re-homes abandoned, abused and unwanted animals. For more information on how to foster, adopt or sponsor a dog, contact Deanna Maerz at deannaaarfrescue@yahoo.ca .

For a full listing of available companions, visit www.aarfrescue.petfinder.com .