Animals of the Month
GEMMA: Meet Gemma, an 11-month-old independent feline with a reserved nature. She’s not your typical lap cat, preferring to explore her surroundings on her own terms. She may be a little shy at first, but that’s just because she’s learning to trust the world around her. Gemma is the kind of cat who likes to do things at her own pace. She’s the master of her own time, choosing when to play, when to rest, and when to seek out a gentle pat or a kind word. But don’t let her independence fool you. Underneath her quiet exterior is a sweet cat who craves love and companionship. She has a gentle nature that shines through once she gets to know you.
ODEN: Oden is a big-hearted goofball with energy that’s downright infectious! This happy 6-year-old pup is always ready for action, whether it’s zooming around the yard, chasing after his favorite toys, or happily trotting by your side on an adventure-filled walk. Oden was adopted as a puppy, but was returned to ARF in July 2024 after another dog in the household wasn’t so nice to him. Don’t worry, Oden’s joyful spirit hasn’t dimmed one bit! He’s a people-loving pup who soaks up attention and is always down for playtime. While he can be a little selective about his doggy pals, he’s still the perfect mix of playful and chill, making him the ultimate sidekick for fun-filled days and cozy nights. Oden is ready to find a forever home where he’ll be showered with love, belly rubs, and all the adventures his heart can handle!
♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦
Next in ARF’s Bark the Question Lecture Series Wednesday, June 18th at 6pm
Ever wonder what your dog is trying to tell you and what factors influence their behavior? Or what is the proper way for your child to approach a dog?
The Animal Rescue Fund of the Hamptons (ARF) announces the next in the “Bark the Question” lecture series is “How to be a Dog’s Best Friend” on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, at 6 PM. The events take place at ARF in the William P. Rayner Training Center, at 124 Daniels Hole Road in East Hampton. These lectures are free to the public.
These engaging and informative talks feature industry experts focusing on animal welfare topics, including the human-animal bond, and animal care and psychology – providing invaluable insights for dog owners and enthusiasts alike.
On Wednesday, June 18 at 6 PM, ARF presents “Bark the Question: How to be a Dog’s Best Friend.” This special session, led by Veronica Grzybowska, CPDT-KA, CBCC-KA, is designed especially for kids (ages 7 and up) and their parents. Veronica will help young dog lovers explore how dogs “talk” to us—through body language, behavior, and vocal cues—and what those signals really mean. It’s a fun, family-friendly event that helps build empathy, safety, and strong bonds between children and their furry companions. 
Adults will learn a lot too!
Attendees can have their pressing questions answered by these experts during the Q&A following each presentation. The events will be moderated by Caryl Glaab, Director of Training Programs at the William P. Rayner Training Center at ARF.
ARF offers year-round training and socialization to the public and their dogs in the William P. Rayner Training Center. The “Bark the Question” lecture series was created to further the mission of the William P. Rayner Training Center – empowering dogs and their owners to foster enduring connections built on cooperation, understanding and trust. Complementing the programs offered at the training center, the lecture series will feature speakers who are experts in their field and give pet owners the opportunity to gain deeper knowledge and understanding of their furry family members.
These lectures are free for the public to attend and are for human attendees only. Please leave your furry friends at home. Space is limited and must be reserved in advance at arfhamptons.org/barkthequestion
About ARF Hamptons: Since 1974, ARF Hamptons has provided 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.