Second Chance Animal Rescue Foundation (SCARF), founded in 2002 by Donna and David Emick in Lamar, Colorado, addresses the significant issue of stray, abandoned, neglected, and abused animals in Southeast Colorado. While the Lamar Animal Shelter handles stray dogs within city limits, cats and animals outside the city had little support until SCARF’s establishment. The organization rescues around 500 animals annually, primarily dogs and cats, including those surrendered by owners, abandoned, or removed through legal intervention due to abuse or neglect. Without a physical shelter, SCARF relies on a network of foster homes where animals receive training, socialization, and medical care before being transported to larger towns or adoption events to find permanent homes. The rescue also extends help to working dogs with behavioral challenges and occasionally rescues horses and wildlife.

Beyond rescue and adoption, SCARF actively supports the local community through spay/neuter programs, trap-neuter-release (TNR) for feral cats, vaccination clinics, and a pet food pantry to assist pet owners in need. Education on responsible pet care, including vaccinations and parasite prevention, is a key focus to reduce shelter overcrowding and euthanasia rates. The nonprofit depends heavily on volunteers and donations to sustain its efforts, continually seeking additional foster homes and community support. Donna Emick emphasizes the rewarding nature of fostering and the vital role volunteers play in giving animals a second chance at a loving life.