Animal Rescue New Orleans (ARNO) is celebrating a major milestone this month with the grand opening of its brand-new shelter and adoption center. After nearly two decades of operating out of a deteriorating warehouse, the beloved nonprofit has a permanent facility built to better serve both animals and the community.
The public is invited to attend ARNO’s official ribbon cutting ceremony on Thursday, June 26 at 2 p.m., marking the official opening of the new shelter. A public open house will follow on Saturday, June 28 from 2 to 5 p.m., featuring guided tours of the new facility, refreshments, raffles, and a silent auction.
Founded in the wake of Hurricane Katrina in 2006, ARNO has remained a volunteer-driven, grassroots organization dedicated to rescuing and rehoming animals throughout the Greater New Orleans area. Over the years, more than 13,000 animals have found safety and love through ARNO’s efforts—despite the many challenges posed by their previous facility, including the lack of central air and heating, persistent structural issues, and overcrowding.
Construction on the new building began in early 2024, funded entirely by private donations and grants. Earlier this year, animals were successfully relocated to the new shelter, which is designed to provide a more comfortable, climate-controlled, and humane environment for both pets and staff.
“This new building represents so much more than bricks and mortar—it’s a symbol of our community’s commitment to animal welfare and a promise to every dog and cat who walks through our doors,” ARNO’s leadership shared in a statement.
As New Orleans nears the 20th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, ARNO’s grand opening serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience and compassion that rose from the storm’s aftermath. For the volunteers, staff, board members, and supporters who have kept the mission alive for nearly two decades, the new shelter is the realization of a long-held dream.
For more information about the ribbon cutting, open house, or how to support ARNO, visit www.animalrescueneworleans.org.
