Supporting Local Love: The Animal Refuge Center in Fort Myers
At Paws in Paradise, 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 (ARC) in Fort Myers, Southwest Florida’s largest no-kill shelter and adoption center.
ARC 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 connect them with loving families across Southwest Florida.
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 🐾
Cat of the Month - Click on Frida for Info!
Meet Frida
Animal Refuge Center
Featured Event
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
- Donate supplies or funds
- Volunteer your time
- Spread the word about ARC’s mission
Visit Animal Refuge Center 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.
Are you ready to find your new furry family member?
Click below to meet the dogs and cats currently available for adoption—you might just find your perfect match! Explore adoptable dogs and cats, learn their stories, and discover how you can give them the happy life they deserve under the Florida sunshine.
The Animal Refuge Center is full of loving pets waiting to start their next chapter—maybe with you!
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.
