Friends for Animals of Metro Detroit

The Friends for Animals of Metro Detroit (the Friends) was formed as a private, nonprofit organization in 1993 by a small group of people who wanted to improve the conditions for the animals at the Dearborn Animal Shelter and promote their adoption into loving homes. Prior to our involvement, the shelter was run as a “pound” and animals were sold for $5 without adoption screening. We worked closely with the mayor and the chief of police and in 1995 submitted a proposal to the city to actually run the shelter. This was approved by the city council and in July of 1996, we took over. We hired a licensed veterinary technician to manage the shelter and instituted significant policy changes. All animals adopted from our shelter are now fully vaccinated, spayed or neutered, and are identified by a microchip. We also participate in over 100 community outreach programs including low cost spay/neuter clinics, off-site adoptions and city events. We care for 2,400+ animals a year at the shelter and are grateful for our 78 active volunteers. Although we receive a subsidy from the city, we are dependent upon donations and fund-raisers for the majority of our operational costs.

We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. The Friends are dedicated to the rescue and protection of animals in the community, while inspiring healthy relationships between people and their companion animals. As animal advocates, we are committed to:

• Saving all adoptable animals
• Providing high-quality animal care and adoption services
• Delivering innovative outreach programs and activities that promote education
• Promoting animal welfare legislation
• Embracing environmental responsibility with earth-friendly practices and facilities