Boxer Angels Rescue Saves Homeless Dogs

Over the past decade, Boxer Angels Rescue (BAR) has been working tirelessly to find homes for Boxer breed dogs.

Formed in the summer of 2002, BAR is a non-profit organization staffed entirely by volunteers. Based in North Bellmore, the group operates primary in New York, New Jersey, and the New England region, but often extends its work into surrounding areas as well. BAR's mission statement states they are dedicated "to rescuing Boxers in need and finding them loving forever families."

BAR is willing to accept into its care any purebred Boxer dogs that "have no history of aggression towards people." Most Boxers that BAR does take in have either been transferred from animal shelters or were surrendered directly to the organization by their owners. BAR does not keep its dogs in boarding facilities, but rather uses a foster home system to provide them with temporary places of residence until "forever" owners can be found to adopt them.

A Boxer taken in by BAR will typically spend at least two weeks in foster care, during which time the dog will be spayed or neutered if necessary, receive any overdue vaccinations, and, whenever possible, be introduced and become acclimated to the company of children and other animals.

Anyone interested in either volunteering as a BAR foster owner or adopting a dog from BAR must first be thoroughly screened by the organization. A monetary donation will also be requested from an adopter, with the size of the donation varying depending on the age of the dog; older dogs warrant a smaller donation fee. Donations are used to offset the costs of food and veterinary treatments during the dogs' prior tenures in foster care. Discounts and other offers are available to senior citizens and prior adopters.

BAR's website describes the Boxer as "a unique breed of dog," being "very athletic, energetic," and in particular need of "human companionship and understanding."

BAR offers continued assistance to adopted owners through its website.

BAR will also readily collaborate with animal shelters and other rescue groups in the course of its work.

"Our only means of financial support is the donations that people send in to us and the donation we accept from the adopters," said Maria Seliga, BAR's publicity and e-mail coordinator.

While BAR does create and sell annual calendars and bumper stickers, Seliga noted, "the income is minimal from that."

"Boxer Angels volunteers make sound use of every donation to provide the care our Boxers may need."

Donations to BAR are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law.