Education, Outreach and Community Wellness
Through hands-on workshops, school visits, and community events, we empower individuals with the knowledge and empathy needed for responsible pet ownership. We believe that teaching humane values is a form of community care; by fostering empathy in students and individuals, we create safer, kinder neighborhoods and build a world where humans and animals thrive together.
A cornerstone of this mission is our Compassionate Care Visits. These sessions leverage the unique power of the human-animal bond to support community mental health. Whether it’s child building literacy skills by reading to a non-judgmental listener, or a senior experiencing the calming presence of a gentle dog, these interactions provide significant emotional benefits:
- Stress & Anxiety Reduction: Interaction with animals is scientifically shown to lower cortisol levels and promote a sense of calm.
- Emotional Regulation: For students and individuals in high-stress environments, these visits offer a moment of grounding and unconditional support.
- Combatting Isolation: For our Veteran community navigating PTSD, or for those in care facilities and independent living, these visits offer more than just a friendly face. A rescue animal provides a vital sense of social connection and a significant boost in emotional well-being.
These visits give our animals a chance to socialize and share the same love they receive at the rescue with the rest of our community. If you would like to schedule a workshop, school visit, or a Compassionate Care Session, please contact Ciara Stueve at [email protected]
Paws to Purpose
At Town and Country, our mission has always been about second chances. While we rescue and rehabilitate animals in need, we've also built a workplace where people can grow, contribute, and discover their strengths.
Recognizing that many neurodivergent individuals face unnecessary barriers to employment, we have created Paws to Purpose to provide meaningful, hands-on work experience in a supportive and inclusive environment. Participants develop transferable workplace skills while contributing to the daily operations of our rescue, gaining confidence, responsibility, and real-world experience.
We partner with the Autism Action Partnership to expand opportunities for neurodivergent individuals seeking employment. Together, we help participants build the skills, experience, and confidence needed to succeed in the workplace while making a meaningful difference in the lives of rescue animals.
Low-Cost Vaccination Clinics
Our low-cost clinics provide essential services to pets in our community. By offering affordable microchipping, nail trims, and vaccinations, we help families keep their beloved pets safe, healthy, and at home where they belong. These clinics reduce the number of unvaccinated and unprotected animals in our area and remove financial barriers for pet owners.
Visit our event calendar to see our scheduled low-cost vaccine clinic days and hours.
Pet Food Pantry
Twice a month, our Pet Food Pantry provides a lifeline to families across Sarpy, Douglas, Pottawattamie, and Cass counties, ensuring that pets never go hungry. Every bag of food we distribute keeps a beloved pet safe at home, out of a shelter, and close to the family that loves them.
For families facing financial hardship, it prevents heartbreaking choices between feeding their pets or feeding themselves, offering comfort and stability in difficult times. Our pantry strengthens communities, protects animals, and reinforces the human animal bond that makes every home happier and healthier.
Visit our event calendar to see our scheduled pet pantry days and hours.
Honoring Those Who Served with a New Best Friend
Town and Country Animal Rescue is proud to participate in Vets Get Pets Nebraska, a heartfelt program that helps eligible Veterans welcome a rescue pet into their lives.
Up to $350 in adoption expenses can be covered through this initiative. Because every hero deserves a companion who loves unconditionally.