Alaqua Animal Refuge, an independent, non-profit organization located on Florida's Emerald Coast, advocates the general welfare and humane treatment of animals by providing shelter, adoption services and prevention of pet overpopulation. Located down a winding gravel road on a picturesque, 10-acre farm in Freeport, Fla., once homeless, lost and abused animals run and play in sun-soaked pastures, swim in cool, clean ponds, relax on breezy screened porches and graze in lush, green fields.

Alaqua Animal Refuge was founded in 2007 by Walton County, Fla.-resident Laurie Hood when she discovered that countless animals were being euthanized due to the lack of a no-kill shelter/adoption organization in the area. Since that time, Alaqua Animal Refuge has helped find homes for more than 5,000 animals. Currently, up to 100 animals are adopted per month from this unique shelter and adoption center, which serves as a true refuge for more than 250 animals at any given time.

Providing programs to the community is also central to Alaqua Animal Refuge’s mission. Since 2008, the shelter has offered its S.N.A.P. Program, providing free or low-cost spay and neuter procedures to more than 2,000 animals per year.

The shelter, which underwent a physical expansion in 2009 due to significant capital-focused grants, is comprised of several independent buildings, including barns for the equine center, multiple canine and cat cottages, two quarantine buildings and an infirmary.

Currently, it costs $38,000 per month to run the refuge, which is entirely dependent upon private donations. Fund raising is a continual effort, with a focus on special events, memberships, planned giving and grants.

Moving forward, Alaqua Animal Refuge is positioned to further increase its services to include additional educational and community services through strategic and innovative outreach programs. The refuge will also continue to expand its role as a regional leader in animal-welfare advocacy.

As we grow and develop our facility and operations, we will adhere to our guiding purpose: To give neglected, lost and abandoned animals a chance at life.

Click here to view our adoptable pets.