The Ramapo-Bergen Animal Refuge, Inc., a no-kill rescue shelter in Oakland, is a place of love and compassion, rescuing canines and felines who have been abandoned, surrendered or pulled from other rescue groups and local shelters since it opened in 1978.
“We’re really trying to make a big difference in our community by spreading awareness for animal rescue in general,” says Aubrey Durenberger, the group’s operations manager.
RBARI accepts animals from other counties in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, so there is always a pressing need for foster and adoptive families here in Bergen County, particularly for cats. RBARI’s cattery, located on the second floor of the refuge, houses cats of all ages, breeds and energy levels. In one room, clever kittens play with toys and look up excitedly at visitors, while down the hall, adult cats perch playfully on cat-scratchers and senior cats peer calmly at guests.
“There’s a cat here for everybody,” says Cori Farrar, the cattery manager. “Every one of them has their own individual personality.”
RBARI works with potential adoptive families to find a good match for both the family and the feline.
“It’s just coming in and getting to know them,” Aubrey says. “You’ll realize that it might take time, patience, understanding and a commitment both financially and emotionally, but it’s so worth it in the end.”
RBARI is funded by donations and staffed by caring volunteers and also provides medical and dental care to its rescued cats and dogs.
Ramapo-Bergen Animal Refuge
2 Shelter Lane, Oakland
201.337.5180, RBARI.org