1. Abandoned and abused animals and children in need thrive together at Noah’s Ark Animal Rehabilitation Center and Children’s Care Homes. From dogs and cats to bison and a famous zebra it’s all at www.noahs-ark.org
2. German Shepherds are known for their strength and agility. If you have a warm spot in your heart for this self-confident breed check out German Shepherd Dog Rescue of Georgia at www.gashepherd.org
3. Watch a young rescue organization grow. Founded in 2003, Coastal Pet Rescue has 60 active volunteers and has helped over 600 animals—and counting. www.coastalpetrescue.org
4. Feathered Friends Forever Rescue/Refuge provides a safe haven for companion birds. Meet the residents and sign up for their newsletter at www.featheredfriendsforever.org
5. The Illegal Reptile Amnesty program allows residents to turn in illegal reptiles with no questions asked instead of releasing them into the wild. Find more details about this Southeastern Reptile Rescue program at www.snakesareus.com
6. In 2009 Georgia resident Michael Dougherty delivered his 1,000th puppy to an animal shelter in Minnesota to be adopted. Dougherty started Puppy Pipeline Rescue and used his own money to outfit a van to transport adoptable puppies slated for euthanasia out of state. Dougherty can be reached at puppy_pipeline@bellsouth.net