Second Chance Animal Refuge Society (S.C.A.R.S.)

The Second Chance Animal Refuge Society (S.C.A.R.S.) was established in June, 2001 to provide a safe haven for dogs in the Shawnee County area. S.C.A.R.S. is a non-profit, 501(c)(3), no-kill, Animal Refuge Organization, located near Topeka (click ‘Contacts’ above for more location information).

The facility has an underground containment fence enclosing 25 of the 50 acres. Three separate chain link areas, all containing dog shelters, provide for the health and well being of the animals. Additional enclosures and shelters will be added on an as-needed basis. The dogs have access to three ponds on the property, aiding in their exercise requirement.

S.C.A.R.S. provides veterinarian examinations to all new dogs immediately upon arrival. During this examination the rescued animal’s health is assessed, any required emergent testing and treatments are performed, and an appropriate diet is established. An assessment of future needs, including, but not limited to, spaying or neutering is also performed. All immunizations, except rabies, and other prophylactic treatments are given by Terry and Maureen Cummins, or properly trained and supervised volunteers.

Many animals have special dietary and grooming needs which must be addressed and monitored. We maintain a constantly updated inventory of all needed food and supplies, based on our ever-changing family of rescued dogs. A full suite of grooming equipment is maintained on premises, and we retain a few volunteers who assist in grooming and socializing the dogs.

It is our primary mission to find permanent, loving and healthy homes for our rescued dogs, or temporary accommodations until a permanent home becomes available. Upon arrival, we assess adoption potential and begin socializing - training the animal to be placed in a responsible home environment. Due to abuse, neglect, or physical limits, any and all special requirements specific to a particular dog must be taken into account. After determining the best course of action, these special needs are dealt with utilizing available resources.

We attempt to find the appropriate home for each dog, interviewing interested individuals, explaining any special needs, and making a home visit to meet the family and assess the viability of the situation. After placement, we provide continued support and follow-up via telephone, email, and on-site visits to ensure that the animal is integrating well into the new family.

We regularly respond to calls from friends, neighbors, and people familiar with S.C.A.R.S. concerning neglected or abused animals. We also work closely with area animal control agencies, notifying them in initial abuse cases, and then following-up to assess whether or not the needs of these animals have been met.

Note: PO Boxes will not show correctly on the map below.