About CARA
Our Mission Statement is to promote responsible pet ownership through humane education, and to provide shelter and care to domestic companion animals until a loving, responsible home can be found, or lost pets are reunited with their guardians.
We are a 501(c)(3) non-profit, volunteer organization that operates on individual and corporate donations and fundraising proceeds. We do not receive any funding from government agencies or national animal welfare agencies. We are very fortunate to have a caring and dedicated team of volunteers, board members, and supporters.
Our History
Carolina Animal Rescue & Adoption (CARA) began shortly after Dr. Ron Myres, DVM, opened his veterinary practice in Sanford, NC in 1977. One of Dr. Myres’ first clients was Pat Sprouse, who became close friends with Ron and his wife, Gail.
Sitting around a dinner table, they joined forces with Sissy and Poly Cohen and Diane and Rodney Harrill to form a team of caring people devoted to finding a solution to the growing population of homeless animals in Lee County.
Their collective efforts would later result in the beginning of the San-Lee Humane Society in the early 1980s, a facility that eventually became Carolina Animal Rescue and Adoption (CARA) in 2003. As one would expect, the number of homeless animals were more than they could handle effectively without a facility.
What Drives Us
Our Mission
To promote responsible pet ownership through humane education and provide shelter and compassionate care to companion animals until they are placed in loving, responsible homes or reunited with their families.
Save a Life
Why Adopt?
1. You’re Saving More Than One Life
2. You’re Giving a Deserving Animal a Second Chance at a Happy Life
3. You’re Going to Receive Unconditional Love, What Could Be Better?
4. You’ll Have a Reason to Stay Active (Health Benefits)
5. Someone Who Will Never Judge You (Mental Health benefits)
Help Save More Lives
CARA is an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit funded by donations, bequests, and special events. As a volunteer-based organization, 100% of your tax-deductible donation directly benefits the animals. Tax ID: 58-1502865.