Every abused animal deserves
a second chance

A dog starved and chained. A cat hiding from an abuser. For over 25 years, Allegheny County has helped animals like these heal — and you can too.

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Your gift pays for the surgeries, medicine, and recovery that give innocent animals a second chance.

Lucky
Tedy
Sam
Saru
Eliot
Benny

Care

How your support helps save
and change lives

When an animal is found starved, abused, or abandoned, your donation to AAARF! pays for everything it takes to give them a second chance.

Rescue

Animals are pulled from cruelty, neglect, and hoarding cases and brought to safety.

Medical Care

Your gift funds the surgeries, medication, and treatment their injuries demand.

Recovery

Then the time, care, and patience it takes to heal — in body and spirit.

Mission

About the Allegheny Abused Animal Relief Fund

Created in 2001 by the Allegheny County Treasurer and District Attorney, AAARF! lets residents help victims of animal cruelty when they buy or renew their county dog license. A dedicated board — including the DA, shelter leaders, a veterinarian, and everyday animal lovers — reviews every request, giving priority to cases where abusers are being held accountable.

Years of care

Animals helped

To animal care

You can save a life today

Thousands of dogs are abandoned every year and struggle to survive on the streets. Without food, medical care, or shelter, many never get a second chance. Your donation helps us rescue, treat, and protect dogs who would otherwise be forgotten.

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Adopt

Meet the rescue dogs
looking for a loving home

Every dog we rescue has a story. Some were abandoned, others injured or left behind. With care they recover and are ready for a loving family.

Johnny

An outgoing and social dog who quickly wins everyone's hearts.

Eliot

A gentle dog who may be shy at first but becomes loving once he trusts you.

Dolly

A playful and affectionate dog who loves cuddles and meeting everyone.

View Dogs

Help

How you can help

Every gift pays for the surgeries, medicine, and recovery that abused and neglected animals need. Here are a few ways to give.

Dog license

Add a donation when you buy or renew your Allegheny County dog license — the simplest way to help.

Give online

Make a secure one-time or monthly gift right here on our site.

Mail a check

Prefer to give by mail? Send a check to AAARF!, PO Box 1611, Pittsburgh, PA 15230.

Spread the word

Tell friends and neighbors, and follow AAARF! on Facebook and Instagram.

“I never knew a program like this existed. Knowing my dog-license donation directly helped an abused animal recover — that means everything to me.”

Sara K.

Allegheny County resident & donor

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Your support helps us rescue abandoned dogs, provide medical care, and find them loving homes. Below are answers to some common questions about donations.

Donations help cover food, veterinary care, shelter maintenance, and rescue efforts for dogs in need.

Yes, recurring donations help us provide continuous care for rescued dogs.

Yes. Donations from supporters worldwide help rescue and protect dogs in need.

All donations are processed securely and go directly toward supporting our rescue work.

Help us save more lives

Every rescued dog receives food, shelter, and medical care thanks to supporters who believe in second chances.