Prospective pet owners can consider Lizzie, one of 71 animals that Madison Animal Rescue Foundation (MARF) has available for adoption. (CONTRIBUTED)

MADISON – Warm hearts of Madison Animal Rescue Foundation (MARF) volunteers melted subfreezing temperatures and eight inches of snow to save homeless dogs and cats.

In winter, MARF’s work is compounded with an increase in strays and those owners surrendering pets. “We had to cancel one adoption event due to weather, which cuts down our adoptions,” director Miki Bennett said.

“We rescued eight puppies out in the cold that would have frozen and took in other dogs that were outside from overflowing shelters without room,” Bennett said.

During February, MARF accepted 126 animals and adopted 118. Currently, MARF has 47 dogs and 24 cats. The 35 foster homes often keep multiple animals.

Rose Berry has volunteered to work on funding numerous grants for MARF, particularly with Petco and Hugs and Kisses. The grants agree with MARF’s operation as a rescue group without administrative costs or a shelter but works with volunteers who foster animals.

MARF always needs food, collars, leashes, kitty litter and flea/tick medicine. “Our biggest needs are foster homes and donations to help pay approximately $10,000 monthly in veterinarian bills. We would like to have a van for transporting animals, crates and large quantities of supplies” sometimes bought by the pallet for low cost, Bennett said.

Another need is a sponsor for WHNT’s pet segment.

Every Saturday, MARF has adoptions at Petco, 8213 U.S. 72 near Target, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Adopters can complete an application or in-person interview. All animals must live indoors; some require a fenced backyard.

“All pets in the home must be spayed/neutered with up-to-date shots,” Bennett said. Adoption fee ranges from $200-$300, depending on vet costs. “MARF doesn’t charge more for animals requiring special treatment.”

MARF currently has a Jamberrynail Wrap fundraiser through March (funnathens.jamberrynails.net). At adoptions, volunteers sell popcorn and pet-themed jewelry.

In April, MARF will sell tickets to the Belk charity sale on May 2. Later this year, MARF will hold its annual Pints for Paws fundraiser.

MARF does not receive funding from the City of Madison. For more information, visit madisonarf.org.