What are the opening hours?

Tuesday 11am - 4pm Wednesday 11am - 4pm Thursday 11am - 4pm Friday 11am - 4pm Saturday 11am - 4pm Sunday 11am - 4pm

Alaqua Animal Refuge

Home
United States
Freeport, FL
Alaqua Animal Refuge

Alaqua is the Southeast’s premier no-kill 501(c)3 animal refuge and sanctuary located in Freeport, FL Alaqua’s new home isn’t just for animals.
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OUR WORK
A recognized leader in animal rescue, welfare, cruelty prevention, and advocacy, Alaqua has become the “go-to” organization to help animals of all kinds including from domestic, exotic, farm, and equine. Committed to providing shelter, safety, and care to all types of animals in need, we also offer an adoption center, on-site veterinary services, educational outreach, and community progra

ms that extend far beyond our geographic location. Initially providing shelter to 38 animals, Alaqua has placed tens of thousands of animals into loving homes and environments and helped countless others through partnerships and community outreach. Alaqua’s work has been recognized nationally through National Geographic and their Nat Geo WILD TV series “Animal PD,” highlighting Alaqua and their unique partnership law enforcement agencies in removing animals from situations such as abuse, neglect, hoarding, puppy mills, and dog fighting rings. Additionally, Alaqua has been featured on the Hallmark Channel’s TV series “Tails of Joy” and the CW Channel’s “To the Rescue” series; has been covered by multiple media outlets including VIE Magazine, Thrive Global, Nashville Live Radio, 30A Review, Portfolio Magazine, VIP Destin Magazine; and most recently, Alaqua Founder Laurie Hood launched “Animal Passion” – a podcast series to spotlight different makers across the globe who have dedicated themselves to protecting animals’ rights and their overall safety and well-being. OUR NEW HOME
Alaqua is in the midst of relocating and building a one-of-a-kind shelter and sanctuary—the first in the United States—on 100 acres of donated land. The new facility increases the Refuge’s sheer land space tenfold where we will have the ability to serve more animals, conduct safe educational tours, host larger community educational programs, and provide an educational and training center for animal welfare advocates were people from all over the country and world can come to visit and learn from us. During the practice of healing thousands of abandoned and abused animals, we realized that we could also help people through the powerful effects that interactions with animals have on the human spirit and body. Alaqua is destined to become a place like no other in the country, transforming the shape and social culture of animal refuges and sanctuaries in Northwest Florida, our country, and around the globe. Our new home redefines “sanctuary” for animals and people alike, and will represent a renewal of life, a restored hope, and a second chance for all. We will continue all of the important work that is done now but will also be a destination and a place to inspire, empower, and educate others to make change in our society. FUNDING
As a non-profit organization, Alaqua operates solely on funds that are raised through private donations and fundraising. Currently, our organization does not receive any state or federal funding for any our services, programs, or staffing. We are ever thankful and fortunate to have a community of supporters and volunteers that are constantly going the extra mile and putting in countless hours throughout the year to help us with our efforts.

08/18/2024

{REFUGE ROUND-UP} It was a fantastic summer day with many animals finding new loving homes. The sun was shining, and the atmosphere was full of happiness and hope. It's amazing to see the community come together to support these animals in need.

08/18/2024

{Gavin's Doggy Day Out}

Gavin was the bestest boy during his Doggy Day Out! It was a quick outing because it was so hot, but he was happy to get out, explore and take a break from the Refuge. Read on to see what Gavin was up to with one of his favorite humans!

🐾 We went to Di'lishi Yogurt Coffee Smoothies-Freeport for a dog friendly vanilla ice cream. He quietly ate his ice cream while watching people around him. He was such a gentleman.

🐾 Next, we went to the Freeport General Store and the cashier offered him a treat, but he politely refused. Perhaps he was full from his ice cream. He sniffed around the aisles and smelled new smells. He quickly relaxed into the excitement of being able to explore.

🐾 Finally, we sat under the shade at Props as he drank his water and snuggled up to me. It was a hot day, but he was a happy boy to explore and experience new things.

Come for a visit to meet this special boy and all our other wonderful dogs! Alaqua is open from 11am to 4pm Tuesday through Sunday (closed Mondays).

08/17/2024

{REFUGE ROUND-UP} Today was filled with adoptions and a surprise spa day. Thank you to The ZUMA Volunteers from Alys Beach. This amazing group spent their day here, bathing over 17 puppies, 8 dog, 3 horses. We couldn't do what we do without the support of our community!

08/17/2024

Happy National Nonprofit Day from Alaqua Animal Refuge! 💚

Ever wondered how you can make a real difference in the lives of animals in need? Your support is crucial in helping us provide a loving and secure environment for every animal that comes through our doors. Whether you can give your time, resources, or just a little creativity, there are countless ways to help:
🐾 Donate: Financial contributions, stocks, bonds, funds, and even cryptocurrency make a big impact!
🐾 Volunteer: Spend time with our animals, give them the love and attention they deserve, and help them feel safe and cherished.
🐾 Foster: Open your home to an animal in need and help them transition to their forever home.
🐾 Adopt: Give a forever home to one of our amazing animals and make a lifelong friend.
🐾 Sponsor: Support an animal or a specific program through sponsorship to help cover their needs.

Not sure where to start? Visit our website at https://alaqua.org/how-to-help/ to learn more about each of these opportunities or reach out to us directly. Your generosity and support mean the world to us and the animals who rely on our care. Thank you for helping us make a difference every day!

08/16/2024

{REFUGE ROUND-UP} What a pawsitively delightful Friday at Alaqua! The weekend holds endless possibilities, so swing by and hang out with our fuzzy pals. Let's shake off the stresses of the workweek and enjoy some quality time together.

08/16/2024

{ Foster Needed! }

We are looking for a foster to help us with one of our special Alaqua dogs. Trigger is a 7-Year-old neutered male German Shepherd. “Mr. Personality” is full of life so you would never know he has severe arthritis in his forelimb.

He needs a quiet environment, where he can rest but also get socialization and enrichment. He will be on lifelong medications to manage his pain but in the mean time we know he would benefit from a foster home where he can get more interaction and stimulation.

Alaqua supplies everything to a willing foster- including all vet care, food, prevention and even bowls, beds and toys. Help us find Trigger a foster so this sweet guy can relax in a home!

https://alaqua.org/how-to-help/foster-an-animal/

08/15/2024

{REFUGE ROUND-UP} The love and dedication of our team shines through in the happy faces of our animals. If you're ready to open your heart and home to a furry friend, Alaqua Animal Refuge has the perfect match for you. Let's make a difference together!

08/15/2024

Grant the wishes of our beloved animals through our Amazon Wishlist! ✨ Every item you purchase helps our dedicated staff and volunteers provide essential care for the diverse array of animals in our care. From food and supplies to medical necessities, every contribution, big or small, is greatly appreciated. Together, we can continue to make a difference in the lives of these animals in need. Thank you for your support! View our wishlist at https://a.co/9xAnt5V

08/14/2024

{REFUGE ROUND-UP} Several puppies found their forever homes today! If you are ready to open your home come meet your match. We are open Tuesday through Sunday 11-4.

08/14/2024

Calling all music lovers and animal enthusiasts! 🎶 Join us at our Animoré Weekend for the first-ever Bluegrass Barn Jam. Enjoy a day of fantastic music, delicious food, beverages, and more, all for a great cause! Musicians of all ages are invited to bring their own instruments for a lively jam session throughout the day. Elevate your experience with our exclusive VIP section, offering prime seating and gourmet food and beverages. VIP Lounge opens at 6:30PM - evening performances begin at 7PM. Secure your tickets now at https://secure.givelively.org/event/alaqua-animal-refuge-inc/animore-weekend and don't miss out on this incredible event! 🐾

08/13/2024

{REFUGE ROUND-UP} A round-up of happy adoptions, joyful dogs and kitten cuteness! Visit us Tuesday through Sunday 11-4pm for a dose of any of this.

08/13/2024

{ Little ditty about Jack and Diane... 🎶 🎶 }

Meet the most lovable pair of Great Danes on the planet! Jack and Diane are a bonded pair of Danes, they are silly and inquisitive and young, at just one year old. These two love nothing more than to get close to you and do the typical Dane lean, warming your heart instantly as you look into their beautiful big eyes.

Found wandering alone the two made their way to Alaqua after no one claimed them on a stray hold at the local county shelter. These two love to be together and we cannot bear to separate them. We are unsure of their past but know with their shining personalities, their future is bright!

For more information about Jack and Diane visit our website, or come to the Refuge and meet them for yourself!

www.alaqua.org

08/13/2024

Ready to book an unforgettable birthday experience? 🎉 Alaqua Animal Refuge is excited to introduce a unique birthday celebration experience for children of all ages! Imagine celebrating your special day surrounded by hundreds of amazing animals and exploring vast acres of nature. Our birthday packages offer a truly unforgettable experience, including:
• A delightful hayride 🚜
• Interactive animal encounters 🐾
• Engaging crafts and activities 🎨

For $400, each birthday package covers a 2-hour celebration complete with:
• Tables and chairs 🎈
• Complete setup and breakdown services 🎪
• A special stuffed animal gift for the birthday child 🎁

We accommodate up to twenty (20) guests per celebration. Please note that while we provide the essentials for a great party setup, parents are kindly asked to provide decorations, utensils, plates, cups, food, and cake. 🎂

For more details on our packages and to view our booking agreement, please reach out to Tess Johnson at 850-880-6247 or via email at [email protected].

08/12/2024

{Adoption Updates}

Staff and volunteers look forward to each and every adoption update we receive. It reminds us why we do what we do, every day! Check out these Alaqua alumni and share your own updates with us, it will make our day!

08/11/2024

{REFUGE ROUND-UP} It was a Purrfect Day all around! Just a reminder we are closed to the public tomorrow but would love to see you Tuesday at 11.

08/10/2024

{REFUGE ROUND-UP} The rain didn't stop us from finding homes for animals today, and we're excited to keep the momentum going through the weekend. If you're looking to add a furry friend to your family, come by and meet our adoptable animals!

08/10/2024

Love documentaries? 🎥 Love animals? 🐾 Now you can indulge guilt-free! When you subscribe to Ecoflix, you unlock an incredible lineup of documentaries and films and play a crucial role in supporting Alaqua Animal Refuge. Your subscription fee for EcoFlix goes directly towards rescuing and rehabilitating animals in need. Join us in making a difference today by signing up for EcoFlix at https://www.ecoflix.com/ngo/alaqua-animal-refuge/

08/09/2024

{REFUGE ROUND-UP} Need weekend plans? Come check out our furry friends. We are open from 11-4. We look forward to showcasing our efforts and sharing our passion with you.

08/09/2024

{Take A Chance On Me}

The dogs and cats pictured have been with Alaqua Animal Refuge for more than a year. That is over 365 days they could have spent in a forever home making someone smile, providing cuddles on the couch and being a companion.

Take a chance on an animal that has been overlooked. They may not be the prettiest, they may have health issues, quirks or simply be a little older than the average animal, but they deserve the same love and chance at a forever home.

Learn more about our available animals here: https://alaqua.org/adopt/find-a-pet/

Can’t adopt? Help these animals find their forever home by sharing this post!

08/08/2024

Wow, what a sizzling day! But the animals didn't let that stop them from having a blast. They were so excited to make new friends and enjoy the heat. It's always a blast seeing them having a great time. Can't wait for more sunny days!

08/08/2024

Happy International Cat Day! 🐱 Did you know that cats can make over 100 different sounds? If you're looking to add a little purr to your life, come meet our adoptable cats at the Refuge. Each one has a unique personality and is ready to find their forever home! 🏠💕 Check them out at https://alaqua.org/adopt/find-a-pet/cats-kittens/

08/07/2024

{REFUGE ROUND-UP} It's a mystery why some animals get overlooked, but we have a paw-some selection eager to find their furever families! Come solve the mystery.

08/07/2024

{Adoption Updates}

We are so grateful to all of our amazing adopters who are part of the Alaqua family! Check out our alumni living the good life in a home.

08/06/2024

{REFUGE ROUND-UP} Who needs school supplies when you can stock up on nature's awesomeness at our Refuge. Bring the kids and visit us from 11-4.

08/06/2024

Leave a lasting legacy of love at Alaqua! 🌟 Honor a special someone or a beloved pet through our 'Bricks for Life, Love, and Legacy' campaign by purchasing a personalized brick at bricksrus.com/donorsite/Alaqua

Your contribution not only leaves a permanent mark at our refuge but also supports our lifesaving efforts. With your help:
💉 $100 provides lifesaving vaccinations for a litter of puppies.
💖 $250 covers the necessary 6-month heartworm treatment for an infected dog.
🏥 $500 ensures lifesaving emergency/specialty surgery for a dog in need.

Let your love pave the way to shelter, safety, and second chances for animals in need. Together, we can make a difference that lasts a lifetime. 🐾

08/05/2024

{REFUGE ROUND-UP} We got a lot done this Monday and are ready for the week! We hope to see you Tuesday through Sunday, 11-4pm. Maybe this week you could consider meeting Gavin or Oakley?

08/05/2024

Get ready to groove at our Bluegrass Barn Jam! 🎶 Join us for a day filled with top-notch Bluegrass music, mouth-watering food trucks, refreshing drinks, and adorable animals, all in support of our Refuge.

🪕Musicians, bring your instruments and join in for spontaneous jam sessions alongside our incredible performances!

🥁Experience the ultimate VIP treatment with exclusive access to front-row seats, gourmet food and drink selection, and more!

Don't miss out on this unforgettable experience - grab your tickets now at https://secure.givelively.org/event/alaqua-animal-refuge-inc/animore-weekend 🐾

08/05/2024

{Roz's Doggy Day Out}

Read all about Roz and the things we learned about her on her Doggy Day Out!

"A Roz by any other name would be as sweet, or something like that.

Roz is a bit over 2 years old but she's already had a long, hard life. Alaqua Animal Refuge stepped in to help when they got the call that she needed a place to go. Roz delivered five lovely puppies and now that phase of her life is past her. She's now looking for a forever home to call her own.

Roz is an approximately 45 lb. mix of retriever, chocolate lab & doberman. She is long and lean and a lovely shade of brown, with just three white toes on one paw. How cute is that?

Now the observations:
Roz is a very good car rider. She jumps right in and settles down quickly.
Roz walks reasonably well on a leash. More training and a one-on-one relationship with a person or family will resolve any pulling. Her excitement is pure joy at being out & about.
We took Roz to Silver Sands outlet, which was crowded, and she did super. Roz showed interest in people, allowed herself to be petted and did not jump up or show any aggression. Several people commented on how pretty Roz is.
Roz is partially trained as she will sit & shake on command. As an exuberant youth, Roz can get pretty excited while playing and jumped on furniture a few times but understands the words "no" and "off".
Roz loves toys. In short order, a tennis ball became Roz's best new friend. Roz loves to play fetch but will need work on "drop" or "give". That said, Roz is sweet enough that you can pull the ball out of her mouth.
Roz is well house trained and will let you know, with a gentle nudge, that it's time for a trip to the grass.
Roz like treats and responds well to treat based training.

For a dog that has had a less than fabulous first two years, Roz is amazingly happy. All day, Roz remained enthusiastic and joyous.

Roz would do well with an individual, a couple or a family. She needs some room for exercise and/or a commitment to long walks.

Pick yourself a Roz, she's very sweet!"

https://alaqua.org/adopt/find-a-pet/dogs-puppies/ &page=shelterluv_wrap_1602782408758%2Fembed%2Fanimal%2FALAQ-A-12892

08/04/2024

{REFUGE ROUND-UP} Yes, Sunday is a fun day! Lots of smiles! We are closed to the public on Mondays, and open 11-4pm, Tuesday through Sunday (actually fun and smiles are everyday).

08/04/2024

Last week we posted about little Mama Fenway and her miracle puppies, we wanted to share the journey of several of the other animals that she arrived with.

Our “Baseball” litter of puppies came to Alaqua with the same skin condition as Fenway, though they didn’t come from the same backyard breeder. This group was found wandering in the woods, emaciated and with wounds from fending for themselves at such a young age.

The puppies were around four months old when they arrived and we knew they were going to require a lot of extra care. As soon as they were cleared by our Veterinarian to be non-contagious we set to work finding temporary homes.

Thankfully our incredible team of fosters stepped up and we were able to get most of the puppies off the Refuge, where they could receive their medicated baths on schedule and the extra TLC they needed to become well adjusted. The remaining few pups were taken care of diligently by staff so they could receive the same.

Several weeks later the group is looking a thousand times better, they each went on their own adventure and many have returned to the Refuge and can be seen in our Adoption Center. There are even a few fosters that agreed to keep more long term while we search for their forever homes.

One special foster reported back that her daughter, who was adopted herself, loved to be part of animal’s adoption story. That warmed all of our hearts to the core.

It has been an incredible journey for us to witness these scared and fragile babies, who looked so rough at admission, blossom into beautiful puppies ready for families.

Come for a visit and meet these resilient babies in person, we are open from 11am to 4pm Tuesday through Sunday!

There is a special fund set up to help care for animals like this. Click here to donate: https://secure.givelively.org/donate/alaqua-animal-refuge-inc/special-animal-fund?fbclid=IwY2xjawEcmA9leHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHX0KHl8IOO7AGu0L0A6Kt07S2At6PtV1xdHozvqBq9THUkBzTvG8Fy_ZPg_aem_dkgnjW7TYd7KV5qsSqpMtw

Address

155 Dugas Way
Freeport, FL
32439

Opening Hours

Tuesday	11am - 4pm
Wednesday	11am - 4pm
Thursday	11am - 4pm
Friday	11am - 4pm
Saturday	11am - 4pm
Sunday	11am - 4pm

Website

https://www.alaqua.org/

Alerts

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Contact The Business

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Videos

Gavin's Doggy Day Out! Available for adoption at Alaqua Animal Refuge.

Jack and Diane- Available for Adoption at Alaqua Animal Refuge!

Refuge Round Up 3/2/24

{VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY} - Are you a cat connoisseur or a feline friend? Come volunteer at Alaqua as a Cat Companion! We have four different cat housing areas and all the kitties to love on. Sign up to volunteer here: https://bit.ly/VolunteerAtAlaqua

{REFUGE ROUND UP} - Happy Saturday! We are here with another edition of the video Refuge Round Up! Plenty of animals loving playtime and getting some great enrichment. Enjoy and share some videos of your furry friends enjoying their week in the comments!

{STILL SEEKING A FOREVER HOME} - Can you imagine waiting over 600 days for something you've yearned for more than anything else? Watching others find what they seek while you patiently wait? This is the reality for 10 of our cherished long-term feline residents here at Alaqua. Despite their shyness, these cats possess hearts as sweet as can be. Though they may not immediately dazzle, once they open up, they'll etch an indelible mark on your soul. Consider providing a long term cat resident with their deepest desire, a home of their very own. Browse adoptable felines here: https://alaqua.org/adopt/find-a-pet/cats-kittens/#sl_embed&page=shelterluv_wrap_1602783054686%2Fembed%2Fanimal%2FALAQ-A-11521

{REFUGE ROUND UP} - Welcome to the first ever video Refuge Round Up! Happiness is just a click away with these short video updates. Lucky is a great lap dog. She loves affection and is mild mannered. She is housebroken. Lydia loved her bubble enrichment! Did you know Mandy plays well with children? Calli is loving foster life, but is definitely ready for her forever home. Piper is a totally different dog in a home setting. Her true personality shines outside of the Dog Adoption Center. Today's Animal of the Day is kitty Calypso! Calypso would do best as a barn or shop cat for catching pests. She doesn't mind other cats but is apprehensive around people. We know with the right, patient person, she is capable of true love. To adopt shy Calypso, click here: https://alaqua.org/adopt/find-a-pet/cats-kittens/#sl_embed&page=shelterluv_wrap_1602783054686%2Fembed%2Fanimal%2FALAQ-A-10146

{SQUIRREL APPRECIATION DAY} - Happy Squirrel Appreciation Day! 🐿️ Today, let's take a moment to celebrate these charismatic creatures that bring joy to our surroundings. From their acrobatic antics to their fluffy tails, squirrels add a playful charm to nature. Please enjoy this clip of some baby flying squirrels that were so lovingly brought to us after being blown out of their home during those storms we had a few weeks back. Want to help virtually care for not just these animals but a variety of wildlife? Become a donor to Alaqua’s Wildlife Refuge today. By clicking the link below, you are facilitating the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of Florida wildlife. Give wild animals the second chance they deserve and donate today. https://bit.ly/DonatetotheWildlifeRefuge

{A HEARTFELT THANK YOU TO OUR AMAZING FOSTER FAMILIES} - As we wrap up another incredible year and step into the future, we want to take a moment to express our deepest gratitude to the unsung heroes of our community – our extraordinary foster families! Your commitment to providing love, support, and a safe haven for those in need has truly transformed lives in ways words can hardly capture. In 2023 and beyond, you've opened your hearts and homes, creating a ripple of positive change that extends far beyond the immediate moment. To every family that has embraced the joys and challenges of fostering, THANK YOU! Your selflessness, compassion, and dedication have made an immeasurable impact on the lives of those who needed it the most. Would you like to be a part of our foster network and open up your home and heart to a new love? Apply to be a foster today here: https://bit.ly/FosterAnAnimal

{TRANSFORMATION STORY} - 90 days. Just 90 days can change a life. Chester came to us as a rescue transfer from Gadsden county. On physical exam he had marked cachexia (muscle wasting) and a body condition score of 3/9 (1 being emaciated and 9 being morbidly obese). He was covered in flea dirt. He had a decreased skin turgor and sunken eyes - alluding to moderate dehydration. Through it all Chester remained sweet, loving and trusting. On Christmas eve, Chester went to his forever home. Happy tails Chester. These are the moments that remind us why what we do is so important; why we are committed to providing Shelter, Safety, and Second Chances. If you'd like to join our mission, donate today to help animals just like Chester. Donate one time or on a monthly basis here: https://bit.ly/DonateToAlaqua

{REFUGE ROUND UP - FIESTA EDITION}

{REFUGE ROUND UP} – This Monday was a day filled with joy, laughter, and the enchanting musical stylings of our feathered maestro, Dionysus the African Gray Parrot! Get ready to be serenaded by the melodies of the jungle and the rhythm of pure avian magic! Dionysus is one of our sanctuary animals and he is also here to remind you that all the coolest birds in the roost get involved! Get involved with us here at Alaqua and get the chance to meet great furry and feathered friends! - Join our dedicated team of volunteers to shower our animals with love and care: https://bit.ly/VolunteerAtAlaqua - Open your heart and home by fostering an animal, offering them a glimpse of the loving environment they dream of: https://alaqua.org/how-to-help/foster-an-animal/ - Make a lifelong commitment to love by adopting that irresistible fur baby that captured your heart: https://alaqua.org/adopt/find-a-pet/ - Support Alaqua through donations to safeguard both domestic and wild animals, not only in North Florida but across the nation, as we stand against animal injustice: https://bit.ly/DonateToAlaqua