ARL Animal Rescue League of Iowa

We were set up to meet with two bonded kittens who were being brought in from foster care. We weren’t told where to go initially but then gained that information the day of. Once we arrived, with our children with us, we were informed they were adopted already. No one attempted to email or contact me prior to us driving out. It was extremely disappointing for everyone.

I am all for adopting as I recently adopted my baby Archie at the Arl like a month ago. Only thing I suggest is that ARL do better in testing/ examinations. First couple days of having Archie up until now he has been throwing up his food after each meal. I literally called them that same week I noticed this and they said Archie has no issues. Took him to the vet today and he has mega esophagus/ mass. I know this is common in dogs/ puppies but ARL should be on top of these things! Now I have to find a bailey chair which is another cost. Granted I got Archie under 6 months and paid the adoption fee of 350! You guys need to improve on these things! Also you guys need to find a way to DNA test these dogs before I got Archie I was looking at Duvo they had him a a bullmastiff on there website and notice a couple weeks after they switched his breed to a Labrador retriever. Help us to help you guys out too! I know this a pet shelter and money is tight but just do better!

I adopted Armando on 9/27/25, and it truly changed my life. He has been the single greatest presence in my life and has helped carry me through some very difficult challenges. I cannot recommend this shelter enough, the staff thoughtfully guided me toward Armando, understanding his specific living needs and how perfectly they aligned with my lifestyle. He filled a hole in my heart and has helped mend my soul in ways I didn’t know were possible. Armando came to me in beautiful condition, though he was understandably struggling with overstimulation from the shelter environment. It was clear he had been well cared for, and the compassion of the staff shone through in how deeply they wished the best for both of us. Truly a remarkable and life-changing experience.

The people were all very friendly great experience found the perfect dog. After we purchased the dog they had us sat us down with a sales rep selling his company's pet health insurance at a discounted rate. After I sat through his sales pitch I piloetly told him we were gonna hold up on it. He would not take no as a answer telling me that we shouldn't get a dog if we aren't going to get pet health insurance and if we waited it wouldn't be instant coverage unless we signed up right now . After being pushy for two more minutes I told him we were done with this conversation and he is way too pushy. Where he rudely said ok bye in a super rude tone. I've had plenty of sales job and to continue to push someone who has said no to the point they dont like you is never good. Especially for a want not a required service awkwardly got up and looked at one of the ARL staff who just stared at me blankly. The guy made us.so uncomfortable and made a scene. That ruined what was supposed to be a special moment. And no getting pet insurance is not a requirement nor should it be forced upon you. In that type of way. Other then that I would recommend gett8ng your dog at ARL everyone else was great . Excited for new memories with our pup .

This is my puppy Ozzy who I adopted from the ARL and from this day on out I will not adopt another pet from them again as TINA just came through my apt & took him for being under weight! As you can see in my photos - I have taken him to Avian in Ankeny which they confirmed he was a healthy growing puppy. I got him all his shots & fed him twice a day with a blanket & cot. Now he’s back in the ARL in a cage due to neighbors calling in false reports! I was not home when this happened & they did not seem to care to contact me! I am warning you now, don’t adopt a pet from the ARL without apparently reading your contract because they will walk in & take them whenever they care - keep in mind I got him 6 months ago, never to expect this. My eyes are in tears. I got him registered as my emotional support animal for personal needs, he was & will always be our family. How would you feel if someone just came and took your child or pet after months of caring for them & having an attachment to them? For anyone who spots him at the shelter, please love him and care for him like we did. He’s energetic but listens as we were able to teach him sit, stay, and shake.