Our Story
Our story started way before the rescue did. Most of us volunteered with another rescue, saved the lives of hundreds of dogs, mainly from high-kill shelters, before being put to sleep.
On a usual trip to bring dogs to safety, the unthinkable happened, and the rescue lost its founder and the soul of the rescue. The rescue had to be shut down.
We decided to continue her legacy by starting our rescue, using all that we learned over the years, and making it even better. On our logo, we dedicated the star to Denise Penna. The most animal-loving person that did anything in her power to save every one of them. She's a shining star keeping an eye above on the animals and our rescue.
The rescue name Friends for Life emphasizes that our feelings and connection with her didn't end and that we are committed to doing all in our power for each animal we are caring for to find his/her home for life.
We decided to help owners who can't keep their animals and prevent them from going to shelters, where the future is unknown for them, and rescue animals from high-kill shelters.
Our volunteers provide these animals with a safe environment, medical care, and love and attention until they find their forever home.
As a non-profit, we don't get any funds and totally depend on donations, volunteers, and fosters.
Our EIN 86-1660545
Mission Statement and Vision Statement
FFLAR Mission Statement:
Our mission is to rescue abused/tortured, neglected, and unwanted dogs from rural areas of Texas by providing veterinary care and finding them loving forever homes up north.
FFLAR Vision Statement:
Friends for Life Animal Rescue’s (FFLAR) vision is to help stop animal cruelty and neglect. We work primarily in partnership with other rescue groups and individuals that are based out of the rural areas in Texas where many dogs are abused/tortured (poisoned, shot, caught in inhumane leg/foot traps, chained to a tree, etc.) and dumped without food or water in extreme temperatures. Even those who are considered to be family pets are often left to live outdoors and receive no routine or emergency veterinary care. Many are not fixed and allowed to roam, thus leading to a tremendous overpopulation problem and unwanted puppies. The shelters there are overcrowded, and all dogs, regardless of age, health, or size, are only given a few days, at most, before they are euthanized. FFLAR works to get these dogs the medical attention they need and transport them to the tri-state area, where we match them with loving adopters who are willing to provide them forever homes where together they find a “friend for life.”