Welcome to GARD

 Georgia Animal Rescue and Defence, Inc. is a non-profit, 501(c)3 / 509(a)2 licensed no-kill animal shelter located in Pembroke, GA and serves Bryan County and outlying areas.  GARD was founded by Joy Bohannon, JoAnne Bohannon and Philip Rutherford.  Having relocated to Georgia from Vermont, where low-cost spay/neuter clinics have been in existence for years, they became aware of the outstanding need in this area by the over abundance of feral and homeless domestic animals.  They initiated efforts to feed, vet, and place numerous animals in the immediate locale.  After volunteering for a year at the local animal control shelter, their endeavors expanded in response to the overwhelming needs of the homeless and neglected, and necessitated their relocating to a property suited to the establishment of a no-kill shelter which will eventually host a low-cost spay/neuter clinic. 

Just a word about our name.  A number of people have generously offered to "correct" our spelling of the word defence.  This is not a typo, but a preference for the British variant of the more traditional spelling of defense. 

 

Please help us to help them

Only 1 out of 10 dogs born ever get a home.  Only 1 out of 12 cats born ever find a home.  800 dogs and cats are KILLED each HOUR in the U.S. because there are not enough homes for them all.

Please help GARD is always overwhelmed with vet bills.  We pride ourselves in rescuing dogs that most groups would not because of injuries or illnesses.  Of course, this costs more money in veterinary bills, but is well worth the effort when you see a once ill or injured dog placed into a loving home.  We rescued Miracle with nerve damage in her front left foot caused by trauma to her leg.  Her leg had to be amputated. You can watch Miracle's pre and post surgery videos on our Video Page .  Cases like this and others drain any reserves we may have.  All contributions are tax deductible.  We cannot begin to express our gratitude for even the tiniest bit of help!

 

Did you know that big black dogs are the last to be adopted?  Watch the video below and consider a big black dog when you adopt! 

 

      

Our PetFinder Pet List

 

The GARD shelter is open from 2:00 - 6:00pm every day.  Take I16 to Exit 137 (hwy. 119).  Go south towards Pembroke.  We are 2.3 miles on the left.  Come see us for your new best friend! 

Download a great savings coupon ($4.00) from Purina.  When you redeem your coupon, Purina donates $1,00 worth of Purina brand pet food coupons to the participating animal welfare organization of your choice!  Click the Give-a-Bowl icon to the left to download your $4.00 coupon!

Current Events