At ARF Hamptons This Month: Winter 2026

Animals of the Month

CUDDLES: Cuddles, known around ARF as our very own Phantom, is a year and a half old and ready to leave shelter life behind. She arrived through the Operation Cat program with her five siblings as a kitten, and we hope she does not spend another season growing up here. Shy at first, she soon reveals a gentle, playful side and loves nothing more than curling up under her blanket. Her striking Phantom of the Opera markings make her unforgettable, but it is her quiet sweetness that truly captures hearts. Cuddles would thrive in a calm home where she can explore at her own pace. Like the Phantom himself, she is a tender, lonely soul simply longing for understanding and a place to belong.

POE: Poe is a ten-month-old bundle of joy who looks like a charming mix between a greyhound and a kangaroo. This lovable little rascal was found running at large in Louisiana, living his best “catch me if you can” lifestyle before realizing he’d rather have a cozy couch and a family to call his own. Poe is the perfect blend of goofy energy and sweet affection. One minute he’s zooming around like he’s powered by pure sugar, and the next he’s curled up in your lap, soaking up all the love he can get. If you want a dog who will make you laugh every single day, keep life fun, and adore you with his whole silly heart, Poe is your guy.

For more information contact mailto:adoptions@arfhamptons.org or call 631-537-0400 x203.

All ARF animals are vet checked, spayed/neutered, microchipped and up to date on all vaccines.

To view all of our adoptable animals, visit: www.arfhamptons.org

NYS Registered Shelter/Rescue #RR035


 

ARF Hamptons Expands Community Support Through Local Pantry Partnerships

The Animal Rescue Fund of the Hamptons (ARF Hamptons) is expanding its outreach through new partnerships with local pantries to ensure families across the East End have access to pet food, collars, toys, and essential supplies for their cats and dogs. This effort is made possible through the generosity of Wally Zeins and Andy Sabin and a developing partnership with PetSmart, supporting ARF’s mission to help families care for the pets they love.

The winter season brings joy for many, but it also ushers in a period of quiet hardship for countless households. Rising heating costs, holiday expenses, childcare pressures, and higher food prices can stretch families to their limit. For those already facing financial uncertainty, even basic pet care can become difficult, despite the deep bond they share with their animals.

Pets often provide emotional comfort during tough times, offering stability, companionship, and a sense of normalcy when life feels overwhelming. Yet the cost of food and supplies can weigh heavily on families struggling to balance essential expenses.

“We know how hard this time of year can be,” said Kim Nichols, Executive Director/CEO of ARF Hamptons. “Families rely on their pets for comfort and connection, especially when things feel uncertain. Our goal is to make sure no one has to choose between their own needs and caring for their animals. We want to lift that weight, even just a little.”

Through these pantry partnerships, ARF regularly distributes: Pet food for cats and dogs; Collars, leashes, and harnesses; Toys and enrichment items; Essential pet supplies

A generous donor helps underwrite a portion of the cost of food for animals in ARF’s care, allowing more donated items to be shared directly with the community. These resources help prevent pet surrender during times of financial strain, keeping pets where they belong: at home with the families who love them. Support ARF by Shopping Local!

Community members can join this effort by shopping at the ARF Thrift & Treasure Shop, where every purchase supports ARF’s programs. The shop features: A variety of pet supplies; A clearance sale on Halloween pet costumes; Clothing, home goods, and unique finds. Your purchases directly help animals in need and support ARF’s community outreach initiatives.

In addition to pantry partnerships, ARF offers essential low-cost services designed to support community wellness year-round: Low-cost vaccine clinics every Monday and Friday; Community spay/neuter appointments; Affordable training services; Humane education programs for all ages

“ARF is committed to being a dependable source of support,” added Nichols. “Whether through essential supplies, affordable medical care, training, or education, we’re here to help families and pets stay healthy, safe, and together.”

For more information about ARF’s community programs, pantry partnerships, or ways to support this work, contact ARF Hamptons at (631) 537-0400, email info@arfhamptons.org, or visit www.arfhamptons.org

About ARF Hamptons:

Founded in 1974, ARF Hamptons is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization providing care and sanctuary for homeless cats and dogs until loving homes can be found. ARF is a leading animal rescue and adoption center on Long Island. In addition to its rescue and adoption program, ARF operates a pet food pantry, free spay/neuter clinics for feral cats, and year-round dog training and socialization classes.

For more information, to adopt, or support ARF Hamptons mission, please visit www.arfhamptons.org.