AWF 2023 Calendar Contest

Posted on June 24, 2022June 24, 2022 by admin

AWF animal adopters! Want your pet to be featured in the 2023 Animal Welfare Friends calendar? We are accepting submissions for our calendar of any former AWF animal! And if your pet makes it in the calendar, you will get a free copy of the calendar as well! To submit your pet, we need: Your pet's name Your pet's name when you adopted it from us (if different) 2-5 high resolution photos of your pet 100-150 words about your pet (what makes them a perfect addition to yo...

Newly Named Petco Love Invests in Lifesaving Work of Animal Welfare Friends

Posted on June 23, 2022June 23, 2022 by admin

Grant of $5000.00 will help save more pet lives in Northeast Iowa. Monticello, June 2, 2022 – Animal Welfare Friends Shelter in Monticello announced today a $5000 grant investment from the newly named, Petco Love, to support AWF’s lifesaving work for animals in Northeast Iowa. Petco Love is a nonprofit leading change for pets nationally by harnessing the power of love to make communities and pet families closer, stronger, and healthier. Since their founding in 1999 as the Petco...

Remembering & Honoring

Posted on April 8, 2022June 23, 2022 by admin

Animal lovers are a special breed of humans, generous of spirit, full of empathy, perhaps a little prone to sentimentality, and with hearts as big as a cloudless sky. Please contact us if you notice any errors in our memorials section and we will do our best to get it fixed promptly! June 2022 In memory of Jack Taylor - from Pam Martin In memory of Linda Lock - from Tom and Cindy Bagge In memory of Jim Soupene - Amy Young In memory of Eloyse Diesburg - from Norman Roberg an...

Dog Park Phase Two Progress

Posted on April 1, 2022April 1, 2022 by admin

Progress continues on the dog park! Today we ordered the rest of the fencing needed for Phase Two of the dog park construction, which will encompass the remainder of the front AWF property. Thank you to everyone who has helped us get to this point!! If you missed it, Phase One of the dog park on our shelter property was completed in September 2021. Made possible by the Roger Ockenfels family this past year, this Phase One dog park space is open from sun up to sun down free of charge for all t...

Please Note: Owner Surrenders

Posted on March 17, 2022March 17, 2022 by admin

Important information for anyone looking to surrender an animal to our shelter: we need you to make an appointment with us before coming in to ensure that we can accommodate you! We have state enforced limits on the number of animals we can have here at one time, so we need to make sure we have the space. Also, the animal's health history can impact where we can keep them at our shelter. And processing a surrender requires that we have enough staff available to help too. We'll do...

AWF Lunch Buddies — Walk with a Shelter Dog!

Posted on March 17, 2022March 17, 2022 by admin

The weather is finally warming, and there's few things better than a stroll outside where you can enjoy the spring sun. AWF invites you to enjoy that walk with a Buddy. Whether you need to get your steps in over your lunch hour, or stretch your legs a bit before dinnertime, we can set you up with a joyful canine companion as your "Lunch Buddy" to help you make the most of it. On Tuesdays-Saturdays, from 11:30 am on until the shelter closes at 5:30 pm, you can stop in to get a Lunch Buddy -...

Duane Ockenfels Memorial Dog Park

Posted on February 20, 2022February 26, 2022 by admin

We are happy to share that despite the winter weather, many dogs and their owners continue to enjoy the new Duane Ockenfels Memorial Dog Park located at Animal Welfare Friends. Made possible by the Roger Ockenfels family this past year, this phase one dog park is open from sun up to sun down free of charge for all to use. This summer, park users will enjoy the addition of running water. Due to some recent generous donations specifically earmarked for continued dog park work, Pha...

2022 Business Heroes

Posted on January 22, 2022June 3, 2022 by admin

Animal Welfare Friends remains committed to furthering the mission of providing critical services for area cats and dogs. We continue to place deserving animals in safe, happy forever homes in Iowa as well as out of state. But AWF receives no annual funding support from any source, and though generous individual donors will help on special needs cases, it’s our everyday costs that are the most draining. The support of these local business heroes is key to our mission in 2022. We can't thank t...

Veteran’s Discount

Posted on December 15, 2021 by admin

We're proud to share that we offer a discount on adoption fees to veterans! The discount is $25 off any adoption fee -- and it CAN be combined with other adoption specials! So since we are having a $25 off adoption fee December special for everyone right now, veterans can get a total of $50 off adoption fees through the end of the month! If you know any veterans looking to adopt, please share this information with them. Thank you! 😊

Adoption Fees Reduced All December!

Posted on December 2, 2021December 2, 2021 by admin

Have you heard? All adoption fees at AWF are reduced by $25 this month!! It's a wonderful time to bring home a new furry family member ❤️ Stop out during open hours Tuesday through Saturday from noon to 5:30 p.m. to meet our animals, or see them online first: See Available Cats Here See Available Dogs Here

Fall in Love — Cat Adoption Special now thru the end of October

Posted on September 16, 2021September 16, 2021 by admin

Find the feline match for your family during our fall cat adoption special! From now until the end of October, cat & kitten adoption fees are $25 off. Come by our shelter and meet the awesome kitties in our care! Our cats enjoy waiting for their forever homes in free roam rooms instead of individual kennels (unless they prefer them). Spend a bit of time in our free roam rooms & you will see each cat's personality shining through! We are a no-kill shelter, and we test all of our cat...

We’re Hiring: Part Time Morning Staff, Stray Dog Pickup

Posted on August 29, 2021September 9, 2021 by admin

Part Time Morning Staff, Flexible Animal Welfare Friends is seeking to fill a part time position for Morning Staff at the shelter in Monticello. The ideal candidate is neat, attentive, and animal oriented. The hours for this position are flexible, with start time between 7 am–8 am for 2-4 hour shifts. Shifts can be worked one day a week or many. The rate for this position is $11.50 an hour. Any candidate must be able to work with and around animals, including diseased, injured and/or t...

We’re beyond Cat-pacity! Adoption Special thru the end of August

Posted on August 6, 2021August 6, 2021 by admin

We're beyond cat-pacity, so from now until the end of August, all cats 4 years & older are adoptable for only $50! Take a look at these friendly faces below and see if any are right for your family The adoption fee includes spay/neuter, vaccinations, treating for earmites, worming, flea treatment, Felv/Fiv test, and microchipping. View All Cats in the Adoption Special

AWF Lending Library: Books & CDs

Posted on July 26, 2021August 13, 2021 by admin

An amazing supporter has donated some animal reference books and CDs to AWF, and so we have established a lending library with these materials! Come by the shelter during open hours if you'd like to borrow any of these great resources: Books: Encyclopedia of Dog Breeds - D. Caroline Coile Choosing a Dog for Dummies - Chris Walkowicz Guide to Living with a Dog - Bruce Fogle For the Love of Dogs - Animal Rescue League The Healing Touch - Michael W Fox Inside of a D...

Stop by the Cone Shoppe for their Dog Days of Summer pup cup/cone photo contest!

Posted on July 19, 2021 by admin

From the Cone Shoppe: We are officially in “the dog days of summer”. We’d love to see your dog enjoying a pup cone/cup from The Cone Shoppe! This contest will run until August 11th, and one lucky dog and owner will receive a gift basket 😁 To make it even better, all pup cone/cup purchases will be donated to Animal Welfare and Friends shelter in Monticello!! 🐶 To enter the contest: simply take a picture of your dog eating the ice cream treat. Send image to: theconeshoppe@...

Volunteers Needed!! Cat & Dog Chores (Cleaning & Feeding)

Posted on July 6, 2021November 16, 2021 by admin

We are in great need of more volunteers to assist in Cat & Dog chores! While these tasks need done every day, you can sign up to do them whenever works for you. The more people we have doing chores one day here or there, the more coverage we'll have! Our shelter manager, Amy, will train you completely on what you need to know to do the chores, whether that be cats, dogs, or both. You can call or email the shelter to set up a day & time to train that works for you! (319-975-8283 or shelte...

Our longest shelter residents have been adopted, thanks to sponsors!

Posted on June 17, 2021November 16, 2021 by admin

More than a year at our shelter ADOPTED!!! - June Update: Adrianne was adopted on November 13, 2021! We've had a donor step up to cover part of our current longest feline resident's adoption fee! This donation was made in memory of Dave Calhoun. June, who has been at our shelter since June 2020, is available to the right home at a reduced adoption fee! June is a domestic shorthair that was born around May 2015 and weighs 6 pounds. She was picked up running around the Monticello Vet ...

AWF Gift Certificates Now Available!

Posted on May 25, 2021 by admin

Animal Welfare Friends is now offering Gift Certificates! Gift Certificates can be purchased in any amount, and can be applied retail items we carry, or toward adoption fees (the adoption approval process still applies). Gift Certificates make a great gift for the animal lover in your life, and are available just in time for Father's Day! Stop by the shelter during open hours (Tuesday-Saturday, noon-6:30pm) to get one for someone special!

AWF 2022 Calendar Contest

Posted on May 3, 2021May 3, 2021 by admin

AWF animal adopters! Want your pet to be featured in the 2022 Animal Welfare Friends calendar? We are accepting submissions for our calendar of any former AWF animal! And if your pet makes it in the calendar, you will get a free copy of the calendar as well! To submit your pet, we need: Your pet's name Your pet's name when you adopted it from us (if different) 2-5 high resolution photos of your pet 100-150 words about your pet (what makes them a perfect addition to yo...

Hiring: Stray Dog Pick Up

Posted on April 23, 2021May 3, 2021 by admin

Animal Welfare Friends is hiring an individual to be on call on an occasional basis for stray dog pickups in Jones County. Pickup employees are paid $15 an hour for daytime calls, and $22.50 an hour for calls on Sundays, Mondays, and any evenings after 6:00 pm. In addition, employee will receive .56 per mile for pickup calls. Applicants must have a valid driver’s license, mode of transportation, driving insurance, and be comfortable handling dogs. Pickup locations may be anywhere in the...

Updated COVID-19 Precautions

Posted on March 10, 2021March 10, 2021 by admin

Please note our current COVID-19 restrictions as of March 10, 2021. Our shelter is currently open and operating during our regular hours. We are limiting visitors as needed to allow for social distancing. No more than FOUR PEOPLE MAXIMUM in our front office at a time. We encourage you to call to set an appointment so we can accommodate you. Masks are also encouraged. Thank you!

Now Accepting Dog Park Fence Quotes

Posted on February 25, 2021February 25, 2021 by admin

Animal Welfare Friends has begun the process of researching fencing quotes for phase one of the AWF dog park. We love to support those who support the shelter, so if there is a person, group, or business who would like to send us their quote for fencing phase one of the dog park, the details are as follows: - 50x187 area - Commercial grade chain link fencing - 5 foot tall - One 4 foot gate - One 10 foot double drive gate - Quoted in galvanized - Quoted in black - Quoted with installa...

Summer 2021 Volunteer & Service Opportunities

Posted on February 1, 2021May 3, 2021 by admin

Updated 5/3/2021 Walk and or brush dogs. There is always a need for walking and brushing dogs during shelter hours Tuesday through Saturday noon to 6:30! For your first time, please call Amy, the AWF shelter manager, to schedule a shelter tour and learn about shelter protocol for walking and brushing. 319- 975-8283. After your first visit, drop ins are welcome when it works in your schedule. Feel free to bring a friend! Cat socialization. Our cats love attention!! For your fir...

Update: Public Dog Park on AWF Land

Posted on January 30, 2021January 30, 2021 by admin

We have an exciting update to share with you about our goal of constructing a community-accessible dog park! Since Animal Welfare Friends receives no outside funding, we’ve been busy finding sources for establishing a dog park that will be open to the public on AWF property. The shelter has received two generous commitments for the park from private donors. In addition, we have received a grant from Jones County Community Foundation, and will continue to apply for additional grants. Wi...

2021 Business Heroes

Posted on January 26, 2021December 28, 2021 by admin

Volunteer Needed: Shelter Van Maintenance

Posted on January 3, 2021 by admin

We are looking for a volunteer to help with monthly maintenance of the shelter van. It is a late model Dodge Caravan donated by a generous supporter and we, in appreciation, want to keep it nice! We will ask you to: Keep track of oil changes, fluid levels, windshield wipers, air filter condition, etc. You do not need to cover costs, just monitor maintenance needs. Check tire pressure, inflate when needed Vacuum the interior once a month Wash the exterior once a month If you're ...

Norwex Sales Benefitting AWF

Posted on December 13, 2020December 15, 2020 by admin

Do you Like Norwex? Mandi Frasher is donating 35% of all of her Norwex Sales to Animal Welfare Friends, with no end date! To shop Norwex and help support the shelter, please use the following link: https://mandifrasher.norwex.biz Select "Shopping With a Party" at checkout (see second image) Select Animal Welfare Fundraiser If you have any questions about products or the fundraiser, please message Mandi Frasher on Facebook! Thank you Mandi for your generous support. ...

Introducing: Ruth’s Road!

Posted on December 7, 2020December 7, 2020 by admin

If you’ve ever visited our shelter, chances are you’ve seen Ruth or evidence of her generosity without even knowing it. Ruth has long been an invaluable supporter of AWF, donating, promoting and volunteering for years. In fact without her, you’d have a hard time getting to our shelter at all! Ruth was responsible for the road from the highway to our building, created when our shelter was first built in 2016. Now every volunteer, adopter and visitor will be guided to us down Ruth’s Road! Than...

2020 AWF Art Contest Winners

Posted on December 2, 2020December 2, 2020 by admin

Earlier this fall, we hosted an art contest for kids 18 & under. We asked participants to show the happiness that dogs and/or cats bring to them. We were so impressed with the entries we received, and had such a hard time picking out just one winner! So after much tough deliberation, we narrowed it down to two: a first place winner & a second place winner. The First Place winner is Allison Chappell! Her entry will serve as the 2021 AWF art print, displayed proudly at our shelter. In a...

COVID-19 Safety Precautions

Posted on November 11, 2020December 23, 2020 by admin

The following measures are currently in place at our shelter for the safety of our volunteers, visitors, and staff: Masks are mandatory at our shelter. Common surfaces are being sanitized regularly. We are strictly limiting the number of people in our front office to FOUR MAXIMUM at the same time. There may be additional visitors or volunteers in other areas of the shelter, as long as everyone can stay properly distanced. We are currently still open during our regular hou...

Important information about bringing a cat to our shelter

Posted on October 30, 2020February 2, 2021 by admin

Despite cats being adopted recently, we most likely cannot take in your cat today. We wish we could, but we can't, and here's why: 44 is the number of cats that we can house at our shelter. We have remained at this limit for many many months. Taking in any cats beyond this number can lead to us receiving citations from the state. Repeated citations could lead to us losing our license. Also, we have more cats under our care in foster homes waiting to come to the shelter. Plus, yet more c...

Our 2021 Calendars Are In!

Posted on October 6, 2020October 6, 2020 by admin

Pick up your copy of our 2021 Calendar for only $10 at the shelter, and grab a few extra while you're at it -- they make great gifts! Every pet featured in the calendar is a former AWF animal. All proceeds from calendar sales go directly back to our shelter, thanks to our generous sponsors who cover printing costs. The shelter is open Tuesday-Saturday from noon-6:30 pm. If you need a copy or two mailed to you, we can do so for an additional $4 for shipping. Please co...

Adoptions from July – September 2020

Posted on October 1, 2020December 25, 2020 by admin

Tailwaggers “Home is where the dog runs to greet you.” Purrfect Endings “Cats are like potato chips, you can’t just have one!”

Share YOUR story! Help us Earn $100K in Lifesaving Funds!

Posted on September 17, 2020September 17, 2020 by admin

Has your adopted pet changed your life? YOU can help us earn $100,000 this holiday season! Share your story, help make our holiday wishes come true! The Petco Foundation, together with BOBS from Skechers, want to know all the ways, big and small, that your adopted pet has changed your life for the better. Winning stories will receive up to a $100,000 Holiday Wishes grant award for their adoption organization PLUS winning adopters will receive a Petco shopping spree and B...

AWF Art Contest – Open Now to September 30

Posted on August 31, 2020August 31, 2020 by admin

Animal Welfare Friends is inviting those 18 and under to submit their drawings or paintings that show the happiness that dogs and/or cats bring to our art contest! The winner's art will be featured as the 2021 Animal Welfare Friends art print and displayed at the AWF shelter, on AWF’s website, and AWF’s 2021 stationary. The winner will also receive $25 and an Animal Welfare Friends t-shirt. Artwork should be done on 8 1⁄2” x 11” paper (standard letter/printer paper size). Entries must be subm...

Custom Bricks for Memorials, Honoring, or Anything You’d Like!

Posted on August 24, 2020August 24, 2020 by admin

Animal Welfare Friends has a great way to become a permanent part of the our shelter! We've partnered with That'sMyBrick.com to offer custom messaging on bricks that are placed in a rock garden in front of our shelter. These bricks are a great way to honor a loved one, lost pet, or just share a message of your choice! Bricks are $250 a piece, and make a huge difference in our fundraising goals for the shelter. You can also purchase a replica brick for $125. Purchase a Brick Online Eng...

Local Boy Scout Builds Agility Equipment for Our Shelter Dogs

Posted on August 23, 2020August 23, 2020 by admin

Cain Appleby of Anamosa Troop 67 recently completed his Eagle Scout project for our shelter. Cain researched, designed, built, and delivered this great agility equipment for our dogs! The equipment provides a new option for exercising dogs and stimulating their minds with new challenges. Thank you so much Cain, you’re improving the lives of countless pups! Thank you also to Audrey Savage, Citizens State Bank, Matt Kumley, and the The Glass Tap who generously donated funds fo...

State Employees can now elect AWF through the One Gift Program

Posted on August 20, 2020August 20, 2020 by admin

State Employees -- if you participate in the One Gift program, you can now pledge to Animal Welfare Friends starting this September! This year's One Gift Campaign runs from September 1-25. Animal Welfare Friends' agency is number 7742. Visit the One Gift Website for more information on how to pledge. Thank you for your support!!

New T-Shirt Designs Available – “Be a Hero”

Posted on August 20, 2020August 20, 2020 by admin

We have new designs available in our sweatshirts, t-shirts, and long sleeved shirts! How cool is the cape design?? Show your support for our shelter & be a hero to animals in need!! Shirts can be purchased at the shelter, or at events like our bake sales. For info on size & color availability, please call or email our shelter. We have sizes XS-4XL, and prices range from $15-$20.

Pampered Chef Party in Support of AWF

Posted on July 28, 2020July 28, 2020 by admin

Candy is hosting a Pampered Chef party in support of our shelter! If you're interested in some high-quality kitchen tools, please check it out! Orders need to be in by Saturday, August 8th. Thanks for your support <3 View Candy's Pampered Chef Party Here!

Adoptions from April – June 2020

Posted on July 1, 2020December 25, 2020 by admin

Tailwaggers “Home is where the dog runs to greet you.” Purrfect Endings “Cats are like potato chips, you can’t just have one!”

2021 Animal Welfare Friends Calendar Contest

Posted on June 15, 2020June 16, 2020 by admin

Want your pet to be featured in the 2021 Animal Welfare Friends calendar? We are accepting submissions for our calendar of any former AWF animal! And if your pet makes it in the calendar, you will get a free copy of the calendar as well! To submit your pet, we need: Your pet's name Your pet's name when you adopted it from us (if different) 2-5 high resolution photos of your pet 100-150 words about your pet (what makes them a perfect addition to your family, what they ...

Sixteen dogs being FLOWN to our shelter!!

Posted on June 9, 2020June 9, 2020 by admin

We have a busy but EXCITING week ahead of us -- and we could use your help!! There will be approximately 16 Labradors and Labrador mixes arriving Thursday, June 11, by PLANE! The dogs are coming from an overcrowded shelter in Tennessee, and will be flown into the Monticello airport by a volunteer Tennessee pilot. WHO’S COMING? At this time, we’re expecting 7 seven-week-old pups, 2 four-month-old pups, 5 six-month-old pups, a five-year-old, and a young Beagle. We’re fortunate that we have spa...

New Online Fundraising Shop!

Posted on June 2, 2020June 7, 2020 by admin

There’s a new way to support our shelter, while also meeting your summer reading goals! AWF has a new online fundraising shop that features a variety of reading materials for all ages & hobbies, as well as “Be Kind” themed items that would be great for Father’s Day. For June, we hope to reach $500 through this shop to help with our veterinary expenses. View the shop here: https://www.efundraising.com/wesavepetsorg Vet bills are one of the largest expenses at our sh...

We’ve returned to normal open hours! Masks required.

Posted on May 25, 2020November 5, 2020 by admin

We are glad to announce that our shelter has returned to regular open hours -- appointments are no longer needed to visit. Our open hours are Tuesday-Saturday from noon-6:30pm. We are requiring masks to be worn at our shelter. We will continue limiting the number of people in our lobby for the safety of our visitors, volunteers, and employees. We ask that you practice social distancing while at our shelter, and remain at least 6 feet apart from others. We also encourage wearing a mask at our...

How the CARES Act affects your charitable donations

Posted on April 30, 2020August 11, 2021 by admin

Thank you, as always, for supporting Animal Welfare Friends. You may have heard that Congress passed the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act on March 27, 2020. This Act included several provisions that may change your charitable donations this year. The changes include a new available deduction, new charitable deduction limits, and RMDs being waived in 2020 & 2021 for most donors. Please consider the following: - You can now deduct your gift to AWF, even if you take the...

Save the Date: Waffle Dinner

Posted on April 30, 2020April 30, 2020 by admin

While we are all mostly stuck inside our homes, let's dream about later in the year where we can all eat fresh waffles together!! Save the Date for our waffle dinner, October 14!

Track your walks to earn donations for AWF!

Posted on April 24, 2020April 24, 2020 by admin

With the weather warming up, but everyone limited on where we can go, you may find yourself taking even more walks with your pup than normal just to get out of the house! Since you're probably already bringing your phone with you, please consider downloading & using the Wooftrax "Walk for a Dog" app to track your walks. The more mile you track, the more donations you can help earn for our shelter! The app is available for both Apple & Android devices. Download the app at wooftrax.com

Adoptions from January – March 2020

Posted on April 1, 2020December 25, 2020 by admin

Tailwaggers “Home is where the dog runs to greet you.” Purrfect Endings “Cats are like potato chips, you can’t just have one!”

Shelter Status: COVID-19

Posted on March 17, 2020April 17, 2020 by admin

Visitors: We are currently open by appointment only due to COVID-19 precautions. We are limiting the number of visitors at any given time so that social distancing can be practiced. We are still handling adoptions, stray intake, and owner surrenders as normal, but you must call ahead for an appointment. Please call the shelter number to make an appointment: (319) 975-8283 Volunteers: We still need your help caring for our animals. If you have signed up on the volunteer schedul...

Animal Care Internship Opportunity

Posted on March 13, 2020March 18, 2020 by admin

Full and part time Animal Welfare Friends Internships are designed to offer interns the opportunity to gain valuable knowledge, basic skills, and hands on experience caring for cats and dogs. In addition, interns will gain valuable experience in skilled care and basic medical observation. This program is particularly useful for individuals interested in the animal care field. Primary Responsibilities Work closely with staff to ensure proper feeding, housing, and oversight of animals. ...

Gather your friends/family/coworkers and volunteer as a group for evening chores!

Posted on March 5, 2020March 5, 2020 by admin

We're looking for small groups of coworkers, family members, or friends who would be willing to volunteer as a group to help with evening chores! We are in constant need of help with daily chores for cats and dogs, and many hands make light work! Knowing that chores are covered for a specific day is immensely helpful to us. And doing chores as a group is great for bonding, plus it feels great knowing you helped animals in need! You can sign up as a group for a time and day that works for you,...

(Update: ADOPTED!) Raja has a reduced adoption fee thanks to a sponsor!

Posted on February 29, 2020March 26, 2020 by admin

UPDATE: Raja has been adopted!! An anonymous sponsor has donated toward Raja's adoption, so she is now available at a reduced adoption fee to the right home!! 🐶💕 Raja is a sweet, well-mannered dog who is housetrained, walks well on a leash, and loves people! She was brought to another shelter by her previous owner who was moving and couldn't take her with. We then brought her to our shelter at the beginning of 2019, as her time was almost up and we knew she still had so...

Dog Adoption Sweetheart Special, from February 1st to 14th!

Posted on February 1, 2020February 1, 2020 by admin

An amazing donor has done it again!! From now thru Valentine's Day, they are sponsoring a Sweetheart Special on dog adoptions -- $75 off the adoption fee of any dog! Thank you, donor! See the dogs we have available for adoption here.

Adoptions from September-December 2019

Posted on January 10, 2020January 20, 2020 by admin

Tailwaggers “Home is where the dog runs to greet you.” Purrfect Endings “Cats are like potato chips, you can’t just have one!”

What we’ve accomplished together

Posted on January 2, 2020January 20, 2020 by admin

Happy 2020! A new year means a new opportunity to do even more for animals in need. We're starting by looking back at what we've accomplished since we opened the shelter in October 2016, and proud to say that 2019 was our best year yet!! In 2019, we helped 259 animals find their forever homes, and reunited 41 missing animals with their families!! This means in just the last 4 years, we've helped over 700 animals find their homes, and reunited almost 100 animals with their families!! 🐶...

Annual Cookie Walk & Howliday Bazaar

Posted on November 19, 2019November 19, 2019 by admin

We will be participating in the Cookie Walk & Howliday Bazaar again this holiday season! Twelve animal welfare non-profit organizations will have booth space at this event to showcase the excellent work they do and sell handcrafted items to fund their programs. These programs allow them to make a difference in the lives of hundreds, if not thousands, of animals every year. For only $8 a pound, you get to choose from more than 500 dozen homemade cookies, candies, and bars ...

Young local volunteer makes & sells handmade goat milk soaps to support our shelter!

Posted on October 8, 2019November 18, 2019 by admin

Meet 9-year-old Bella Frasher from Cascade! After Bella and her mom Mandi began volunteering at the shelter, Bella decided she wanted to do more to help. Bella and her mom came up with the idea to make and sell their home made soap in support of our shelter! Making goat milk soaps has become a family project, with Bella’s love for animals as the driving force. This amazing family has decided to sell them with 100% of the proceeds going to our shelter to provide for cats and dogs waiting f...

Charlie Jo is Home After Over TWO YEARS with AWF

Posted on September 19, 2019September 21, 2019 by admin

Many happy tears were shed at our shelter today as we say goodbye to one of our longest residents - Charlie Jo!! This sweetheart had been with us for over TWO YEARS after she was surrendered to us by her owner. She struggled at our shelter, where she was stressed and anxious. As a result, she did not show well to potential families who visited. The stress also caused her health issues. Charlie Jo was recently able to be fostered by one of our amazing foster moms at her calm and loving home...

Animal Welfare Friends is a 2019 Top-Rated Non-Profit!

Posted on September 12, 2019 by admin

Thanks to our amazing community, we have been honored with one of the first Top-Rated Awards of 2019 from GreatNonprofits!! We appreciate all of your contributions - thank you so much!! We will continue to do our best, and can't wait to see what we can do together in the months and years ahead. 🐶♥️🐱 https://greatnonprofits.org/org/animal-welfare-friends

Adoptions from May – August 2019

Posted on September 10, 2019September 10, 2019 by admin

Tailwaggers “Home is where the dog runs to greet you.” Purrfect Endings “Cats are like potato chips, you can’t just have one!”

(Update: ADOPTED!) Thelma Lou has a reduced adoption fee, thanks to a sponsor!!

Posted on September 6, 2019October 23, 2019 by admin

UPDATE: Thelma Lou has been adopted!!!! An anonymous sponsor has donated toward Thelma Lou's adoption, so she is now available at a reduced adoption fee to the right home!! 🐶💕 This lovable older female lab/shepherd mix was adopted out to a good home in 2011, but unfortunately her mom became very ill and could not take care of her any more. She has been back at our shelter for over a YEAR now, and we would love to see her with a loving family!! Thelma...

2020 Animal Welfare Friends Calendar Contest

Posted on July 10, 2019 by admin

Want your pet to be featured in the 2020 Animal Welfare Friends calendar? This year, we are accepting submissions for our calendar of any former AWF animal! And if your pet makes it in the calendar, you will get a free copy of the calendar as well! To submit your pet, we need: Your pet's name Your pet's name when you adopted it from us (if different) 2-5 high resolution photos of your pet 100-150 words about your pet (what makes them a perfect addition to your family,...

Our shelter got a deep clean thanks to a flurry of wonderful volunteers!

Posted on July 10, 2019August 17, 2019 by admin

On July 7, our call for volunteers to help deep clean the shelter was met - and our hopes exceeded!! Dozens of volunteers came to help us make our shelter spotless inside and out. People were everywhere offering their time and love to help us give our Fur Babies a beautiful home. We are so grateful for your help! We CANNOT keep Animal Welfare Friends going without our Volunteers. Thank you all!

Adoptions from January – April 2019

Posted on May 18, 2019May 18, 2019 by admin

Tailwaggers “Home is where the dog runs to greet you.” Purrfect Match! “Cats are like potato chips, you can’t just have one!” * Not pictured above: Bronco, Amber, and Polly.

Fundraiser Raffle – 2003 Ford Mustang Convertible

Posted on May 10, 2019June 24, 2019 by admin

We're so excited for our latest fundraiser – a raffle drawing for a 2003 Ford Mustang Convertible!! This Mustang is in top notch condition, with a list value of $12,000 and only 56,000 miles on it. Tickets are $50 each, and can be purchased at: Animal Welfare Friends shelter, Monticello Sports, REM Electric, and Superior Appliance. Only 600 tickets will be sold, so get your tickets soon!! The drawing will take place at the Monticello 4th of July fireworks (need not be present to win).

Limited Time AWF Merch for our Second Anniversary!

Posted on October 7, 2018October 8, 2018 by admin

Celebrate the shelter's Second Anniversary through the purchase of AWF logo gear. ONLY available NOW through October 28th. Items include: Adult T-shirt, crew sweatshirt and hooded sweatshirt Youth T-shirt 20 ounce tumbler with laser engraved AWF logo 11 ounce coffee cup with laser engraved AWF logo AWF car sticker. Prices range from $7 to $25. Choose from SEVERAL colors on all clothing items! Order items at: https://animalwelfarefriends.itemorder.com Items...

Liam’s Story – From facing death in Tennessee to healthy in Iowa

Posted on July 27, 2018November 18, 2019 by admin

In June of 2018, Animal Welfare Friends learned about a dog named Liam. A pitbull terrier mix from Memphis, TN, Liam had been found as a stray in pretty bad shape - he had an embedded collar in his neck and multiple wounds on his body. Rescuers think he may have been used as a bait dog. Instead of being euthanized, Liam was pulled by Brittany Rescue and underwent surgery where they treated his injuries and found a bullet in his chest. Despite his trauma and pain, Liam remained a sweet, lo...

The New Beginnings Shelter Challenge has begun!

Posted on May 24, 2018May 25, 2018 by admin

The Animal Rescue Site and GreaterGood.org are giving away thousands in grants to eligible shelters across the country in a new Shelter Challenge contest, and Animal Welfare Friends is eligible to win! The New Beginnings Shelter challenge is a major contest that will give $100,00 in cash grants to eligible shelters that win the most votes in a variety of categories and photo contests. You can help AWF win some of the grant prizes by voting every day on our shelter challenge page, starting now...

We received over 8,000 pounds of litter thanks to your nominations!

Posted on March 21, 2018April 2, 2018 by admin

Recently, we asked for our supporters to nominate us to receive some free Cat's Pride Cat Litter through their Litter for Good program. And WOW, did you ever nominate us!! We've received an astonishing 8,000+ pounds of litter! Or, 840 jugs, which is worth over $6,000!! We had it freighted to the shelter, and we are so happy to not have to worry about litter for QUITE a while. We're so grateful to everyone involved who made this possible. Thank you from everyone at AWF, and especia...

AWF Coffee Fundraiser

Posted on March 14, 2018March 14, 2018 by admin

We have a new easy way to support us by doing something you most likely already do every day... drinking coffee!! We have a brand new fundraiser happening from now until the end of March where you can support our shelter & our life-saving work by purchasing delicious Premium & Exotic Coffees and Specialty Beverages. We have over a dozen coffee flavors, such a a traditional French Roast, a scrumptious Blueberry Cinnamon Crumble, or an exotic Jamaican Me Crazy flavor! All flavors ar...

Our Seniors for Seniors Program

Posted on March 3, 2018July 31, 2018 by admin

Announcing a new way to find love at AWF... our Seniors for Seniors program! If you're over 50 and want a companion who is less work than a kitten, we can help you find your match! With a reduced adoption fee of $50, our 7 years and older cats still have lots of love to give, and are eager to share it with you.

Shoe Drive Goal Met!!

Posted on January 30, 2018February 10, 2018 by admin

With your incredible support, we met our goal of 100 bags of shoes for our shoe drive! That's over 2500 pairs of shoes that all came from our community. WOW! We cannot thank those who donated enough. The shoes were picked up on January 29, and filled a 26' truck full, with 111 huge bags of shoes holding 25 pairs in each! Funds2Orgs wil now distribute the shoes to developing nations. There, the shoes will be given to individuals or small groups who sell the shoes as a "micro-business". The...

Looking for Cat Fosters!!

Posted on August 10, 2017 by admin

We are in need of foster homes for many of the 27 cats we rescued from a residence earlier this summer. They are working towards recovery from their previous living situation, but it has been a slow process. Most need to gain weight, and many are on medications still. And because we are over capacity, they are not able to move around and socialize as much as we'd like. It is our hope that they will recover more quickly in a foster home environment with some one-on-one care! Think you can help...

Our Goal: Kuranda Beds for Every Dog at our Shelter!

Posted on July 30, 2017 by admin

We are on a mission to get Kuranda beds for every dog at our shelter! Kuranda beds are elevated, cot-style beds that offer orthopedic support to dogs, while still being resistant to wear & chewing. They can also be easily cleaned, which is extra important in a shelter environment. And, the beds help prevent pressure sores that form when dogs lay on hard surfaces for long periods of time. We are fortunate to have received some newly donated Kuranda beds this week, and the dogs abs...

We would ♥ your support!

Posted on January 24, 2017July 31, 2018 by admin

Doing some Valentine's Day shopping online? Shop through Amazon Smile and Amazon will donate a portion of your purchase to Animal Welfare Friends! Just be sure to select us as the recipient for your donation. Shop through this link to support AWF! Have a little bit extra in your Valentine's Day budget? Spread some love directly to the AWF animals by buying them a gift from our Amazon Wishlist!

Cindy Bagge

Posted on November 8, 2016July 19, 2021 by admin

Board President - Cindy and her husband Tom are both active in their farming operation and own Oak Street Manufacturing in Monticello. They have been providing forever homes for Saint Bernards and Mastiffs since 2000. Currently, Saints Bella and Greta and their Mastiff mix Charlie reside with them. Cindy enjoys spending time with their grandchildren, year round gardening, and cooking.

Shelter Grand Opening!

Posted on October 10, 2016July 31, 2018 by admin

After a decade of fundraising and planning, Animal Welfare Friends is proud to present Jones County’s very first animal shelter. Built on land purchased by AWF in 2012, the shelter sits just north of Monticello off Highway 151. Construction on the shelter began in March 2016, and is now complete! We're proud to invite everyone to our Grand Opening event on Saturday, October 15th from 10 am–4 pm & Sunday, October 16th from 1 pm–4 pm. The shelter is located at 22407 Business HWY 151, Mont...

Volunteer Opportunity: The Great Jones County Fair

Posted on June 20, 2016June 20, 2016 by admin

AWF will need at least two people to volunteer to work each shift at our booth at the Great Jones County Fair July 19th through July 24th. The responsibilities include opening and closing the booth at the beginning and end of each day, selling merchandise, handing out information, and collecting donations. If you are interested in being an AWF volunteer and have never done it before, come join us at the fair and hang out. It will give you the opportunity to see what we do, talk to other vol...

Shelter Construction Has Begun!

Posted on May 9, 2016September 8, 2016 by admin

Construction has started on the Animal Shelter! See the latest construction photos here, and keep an eye on our Facebook page for photos as well! We still need donations to complete the project. If you would like to contribute, please use the Donate link in the menu above. 9/4/16: The shelter is nearing completion! New cement is being poured in preparation for the Grand Opening on October 15 & 16th 6/18/16: New pictures of the construction of the shelter! 5/5/16: The...

Help Pave the Shelter!

Posted on April 30, 2016March 13, 2022 by admin

Animal Welfare Friends is offering a great way to become a permanent part of the our shelter! We've partnered with That'sMyBrick.com to offer custom messaging on bricks that will be used to pave the walkways of our shelter. These bricks are a great way to honor a loved one, lost pet, or just share a message of your choice! Bricks are $250 a piece, and make a huge difference in our fundraising goals for the shelter. You can also purchase a replica brick for $125. Purchase a Brick Online...

Preparing for a Shelter

Posted on March 6, 2016July 31, 2018 by admin

One of the goals of the AWF Board is to visit other Animal Shelters in Iowa. Our intention for the visits is to learn how to better proceed with the building of the AWF Animal Rescue Facility. We feel the other shelters that have been through the process can offer us a wealth of information on what works the best as far as the construction goes. Animal Rescue League in Des Moines Iowa AWF Board Members Kelly Day, Ruth Carlson, Annie Locher and her dog Jenni along with Vicki Kelchen, and Dave ...

AWF Purchases Land

Posted on March 6, 2016March 19, 2016 by admin

In the December 2012 edition of the Fetch Newsletter it was announced that AWF purchased land. Yes you got that right; AWF owns land in Jones County for a future animal shelter!! It is located on the west side of Highway 151 at the north end of Monticello where Highway 151 and Business 151 intersect. It consists of 8.68 acres and has great potential for many uses. This has been news in the making since 2006.

Cat Adoption Center Open for Business

Posted on March 6, 2016July 31, 2018 by admin

UPDATE: The cats at the Cat Adoption Shelter were moved to our new shelter in Monticello upon completion of its construction in October 2016. We continue to provide care for cats awaiting adoption at the Monticello location, and the Olin Cat Adoption Center has closed. The new Cat Adoption Center, located at 301 Jackson Street in Olin, houses 12 cats who are neutered or spayed (as age appropriate), vaccinated (as required by the State of Iowa) and ready to be adopted. Best of all, the ava...

Lisa Wigington

Posted on March 4, 2016July 19, 2021 by admin

Treasurer - Lisa was raised in St. Louis, Missouri and moved to Iowa in 2013. She began working at Honkamp Krueger in 2015 and is currently the partner in charge of the Audit department. She is married to Mike Batman. Lisa has one son, Bronson, who lives in St. Louis and two step-sons, Blake and Cole, who live in Monticello. Lisa and Mike have 2 dogs; Zeus, a Great Dane; and Max, a yellow Labrador Retriever. Their involvement with AWF began as foster parents for dogs even before the shelter was ...

Our History

Posted on February 22, 2016June 16, 2021 by admin

In the Beginning, There Were Two Stray Dogs... In the summer of 2002, two stray dogs wandered onto the property of an Oxford Mills couple. New to the area, the couple asked the neighbors if Jones County had an animal shelter. One neighbor said they should shoot the dogs and another suggested they call the sheriff’s office. They were so disgusted at the suggestion of shooting a dog they called the sheriff’s office only to learn that the nearest animal shelter was in Jackson County. They loaded...

Our Philosophy

Posted on February 22, 2016October 30, 2020 by admin

Our Philosophy and Programs From our beginning, we've been driven to establish an organization that balances rescuing and caring for animals with educating the humans on whom these animals rely for a peaceful, safe and healthy life. The decisions we make daily, and the programs we offer, reflect this philosophy. Rescue After years of fundraising and planning, we've completed Jones County's first animal shelter. We've built relationships with officials in Jones County and its cities that a...

AWF Shelter Campaign

Posted on February 21, 2016June 16, 2021 by admin

In May 2006, AWF embarked on a campaign to raise funds to build an animal shelter in Jones County. In the next 10 years, we raised nearly $250,000 towards this goal. After years of hard work, AWF was able to purchase land for the shelter in 2012. The 8.68 acres, located just north of Monticello at off Highway 151, gave us plenty of space for not just a shelter, but also a dog park and additional animal event spaces. After this purchase, the AWF board began working on the plans for the anim...

Adoption 101

Posted on February 17, 2016April 21, 2022 by admin

Adopting a dog or cat is a big decision. It’s important to carefully think through the time and money commitment that a new pet will require. And while it is understandable that many people are attracted to the physical characteristics of a pet, it is much more important to focus on the pet’s personality. Our pet descriptions, input from our foster families, plus your interaction with the dog or cat, will provide you with the information you need to make a match that will last for the life of th...

Pet Lost & Found

Posted on February 17, 2016October 27, 2020 by admin

All of us at AWF would love to see more stray dogs and cats returned to their families. But we need your help to do so. The #1 thing you can do is to make sure your pet is wearing a collar with an I.D. tag attached. This tag should include your last name, address and phone number. If room on the tag permits, also include your pet’s name. But the most important information is your phone number. If you change your number, be sure and change your pet’s tag! It is also important to attach a rabie...

Guide for Re-Homing Your Pet

Posted on February 17, 2016January 17, 2017 by admin

Guidelines for Finding a Responsible Home for Your Pet The following information is provided by the Humane Society of the United States, www.hsus.org. Do you feel you can no longer keep your pet and want to find a new home for him or her? Perhaps you are frustrated with a behavior problem. Or your child has pet allergies. Or you are having trouble finding rental housing that accepts your pet. Many pet-related problems can be frustrating, and you may feel that relinquishing your pet is the onl...

Happy Tails

Posted on February 17, 2016March 6, 2016 by admin

Dog Behavior Tips

Posted on February 17, 2016March 19, 2016 by admin

If you are dealing with a pet behavior problem, consider first consulting with your veterinarian. Many problems may be due to a treatable medical condition. Dog Trainers: Alpha House K9s Bark Busters Stone Hollow Dog Training, Inc. Dog Behavior Issues: Diamonds in the Ruff Pet Expertise Pet Care & Behavior Issues: Humane Society of the United States American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Pet Expertise

Cat Behavior Tips

Posted on February 17, 2016March 19, 2016 by admin

If you are dealing with a pet behavior problem, consider first consulting with your veterinarian. Many problems may be due to a treatable medical condition. For example, a housetrained pet may begin urinating in the house due to a urinary tract infection rather than a behavior problem. Your veterinarian will be able to rule out any physical cause of the problem. There are also many local animal behaviorists and trainers who have the experience and expertise to help address your pet’s behavior pr...

Courtesy Listings

Posted on February 17, 2016December 27, 2016 by admin

At Animal Welfare Friends, we believe it is your responsibility to work to resolve behavior or other problems before deciding to give up your pet. Millions of dogs and cats are homeless in the United States each day and many of them are euthanized annually because there are not enough homes; you owe it to your family pet to help him or her stay with you. If you are experiencing problems with your cat or dog or small animal, please visit our section on Pet Behavior Tips under "Resources" on this ...

Candy Roberg

Posted on February 10, 2016July 19, 2021 by admin

Board Member - Candy began volunteering for AWF in 2004 after AWF reached out to the community for volunteers. Candy has been AWF's top fundraiser for many of those years. Her efforts include the annual summer bake sales and Tupperware parties. Candy is pictured here with her dog Bailey. Candy also has numerous outdoor cats on her farm. Profession: Retired Reprographics Coordinator Contact: robergcandy@hotmail.com

Mike Batman

Posted on February 1, 2016April 6, 2022 by admin

Board Member - From Cimarron, Kansas, Mike and his wife Lisa live in Monticello. Lab Max and former AWF shelter dogs Zeus, the Great Dane, and Lab Cody share their home has well. In addition to serving the AWF board, Mike is an active shelter volunteer, foster, and fundraiser. When he can find time, he likes to hunt, fish and golf.

Saving Stray Animals

Posted on January 11, 2016September 4, 2020 by admin

Because every pet deserves a peaceful, safe and healthy life