Supporting Local Love at the Animal Refuge Center Fort Myers
At Paws in Paradise SWFL, we believe paradise isn’t just for people – it’s for pets, too! That’s why we’re proud to shine a spotlight on the Animal Refuge Center Fort Myers, Southwest Florida’s largest no-kill shelter where you can adopt a pet in Southwest Florida.
Animal Refuge Center Fort Myers has been rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming cats and dogs since 1987. With more than 400 furry residents at any given time, this compassionate nonprofit gives homeless and neglected animals a second chance at life — and helps families across Southwest Florida adopt a pet through its program.
When you adopt from ARC, you’re not just gaining a loyal companion – you’re helping to create a kinder community. The
center also offers volunteer opportunities, sponsorships, and educational programs that inspire responsible pet ownership
and compassion for all living creatures.
🐾 Animal Refuge Center - Adoptees of the Month 🐾
Each month, we highlight a special dog or cat available for adoption at the Animal Refuge Center Fort Myers. Meet our multi year resident dogs ARC, as well as cats patiently waiting for their forever homes. Learn more about their stories and how to adopt a pet in Southwest Florida.
Meet the 7 Multi Year Resident Dogs at Animal Refuge Center Fort Myers
Loyal, loving companions who have been waiting patiently for their forever homes. Each of these special dogs has a unique story and a heart full of love, ready to bring joy to the right family. Explore their profiles below and learn how you can adopt a pet in Southwest Florida, giving these long-term residents the happy, loving home they deserve.
Animal Refuge Center
Featured Event
Stay connected with the Animal Refuge Center Fort Myers by attending upcoming events. Each event supports our mission to help cats and dogs find homes and provides opportunities to volunteer at Animal Refuge Center or adopt a pet in Southwest Florida.
Pups & Pints of FMBREW
12811 Commerce Lakes Drive #28 | Fort Myers, FL 33913
November 8, 2025 | 4PM – 6PM
Join US! The night Sparkes while our resident’s shine!
As ARC’s signature event, the Starlight Auction is an opportunity to gather and celebrate the year’s successes and support ARC’s efforts to help homeless pets in need.
In one evening, friends of ARC come together to enjoy an exquisite meal and participate in both our silent auction and exciting live auction events. These auctions provide you a fantastic opportunity to get a jump on your holiday shopping while helping out a great cause. Imagine… holiday gifts that are tax deductible! If you’re looking for a fun evening filled with excitement and anticipation for a good cause, please join us at this year’s annual event.
TICKETS: This year’s event will be held on November 29th, 2025 at 6 pm.
Hurry! Spaces fill up quickly! Tickets are on sale for $125 per person and include admission to the live/silent auction, complimentary cocktail, dinner, dessert and coffee.
(Information taken from ARC Website.)
31st Annual Starlight Auction for the Residents of ARC
Saturday | November 29, 2025 | 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM
SANIBEL HARBOUR MARRIOTT RESORT & SPA
17260 Harbour Pointe Drive
Fort Myers, FL 33908
Click here for more information.
ARC’s Annual Lights of Love Ceremony
Click below to purchase a light:
ARC’s Annual Lights of Love Ceremony — The Animal Refuge Center (ARC)
During the holidays we see lights everywhere…
At ARC, we have a very special way to honor all pets. We call it the Lights of Love. For a donation of $15, we will illuminate a white light for each pet that “lives” on in your memory, or a colored light to honor each pet with whom you currently share happy times.
This year marks the 25th Annual Lights of Love ceremony. It will take place on
Sunday, December 21st, 2025, at 6:30pm.
This year, the ceremony will be BROADCAST ONLY. No on-site attendance this year.
Join us live at 6:30pm on 12/21/25 on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/AnimalRefugeCenter
All proceeds from this beautiful event go to feed and shelter our 350+ residents.
How Can You Help?
- Adopt or foster a pet in Southwest Florida
- Donate supplies or funds to Animal Refuge Center Fort Myers
- Volunteer at Animal Refuge Center Fort Myers
- Spread the word about ARC’s mission
Visit Animal Refuge Center Fort Myers to learn more about their incredible work and how you can make a difference.
(Information is taken from the Animal Refuge Center website.)
As a volunteer, you will benefit from the knowledge that you are making a difference in the lives of the wonderful cats and dogs of ARC. We can’t control their past, but with your dedication and help, we can re-write their futures.
Application link is below.
Find Your Forever Pet at Animal Refuge Center Fort Myers
Ready to find your new furry family member? Explore the adoptable cats and dogs at Animal Refuge Center Fort Myers. Learn the stories of multi-year resident dogs ARC and discover how you can adopt a pet in Southwest Florida to give them the happy, loving home they deserve. Click the links below to view all available dogs and cats and find your perfect match today!
Talk To Us
Have questions about adoption, local shelters, or finding a pet-friendly home in paradise? Send us a message! We love helping fellow pet lovers make Southwest Florida feel like home.
