Ramapo-Bergen Animal Refuge, Inc. (RBARI), the leading no-kill animal shelter in Northern New Jersey, is dedicated to second chances by providing safe refuge and essential medical and behavioral care, along with new forever homes to New Jersey’s homeless and abused dogs and cats.

At RBARI, our mission is to provide a safe haven for homeless animals, offering them compassionate care and the chance to find loving, permanent homes. As North Jersey’s leading no-kill shelter, we are dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming animals in need while advocating for responsible pet ownership and animal welfare.
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Our story began over 40 years ago when two rescue organizations—Bergen Animal Rescue, Inc. (BARI) and Ramapo Animal Refuge, Inc. (RARI)—shared a vision: to create a permanent shelter for animals with nowhere else to go. BARI, led by Russell T. Custer, had the resources but struggled to secure a location. RARI, founded by Rosary Thomas, had a dedicated volunteer network and strong ties to the town of Oakland, NJ. In 1978, they combined their strengths to form Ramapo-Bergen Animal Refuge, Inc. (RBARI), bringing their dream to life.
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Since then, RBARI has remained committed to its no-kill philosophy, ensuring every adoptable animal receives the care they need for as long as it takes to find a forever home. Through community support, dedicated volunteers, and a passion for animal welfare, RBARI continues to be a beacon of hope for animals in need.