The Alliance for Responsible Pet Ownership, Inc. was conceived in 1998 by a group of Indianapolis citizens concerned about the continuing high rate of euthanasia in our city. ARPO seeks to unite animal-related businesses and organizations in central Indiana for the purpose of promoting responsible pet ownership and decreasing the number of companion animals surrendered to shelters. ARPO is funded solely by donations and is staffed entirely by volunteers. We do not have a shelter, so all of our adoptable animals are housed in temporary foster homes until loving permanent homes are found. If you would like more information on becoming a foster parent, please contact us.
MISSION STATEMENT
- To encourage and assist existing and future pet owners in providing a good quality life for their pets.
- To temporarily shelter stray, abandoned, neglected, abused and surrendered cats and dogs in a clean, comfortable, and safe environment while providing the best quality of life and medical care possible.
- To facilitate the adoption of these companion animals into stable, loving homes.
- To promote pet ownership as a lifetime commitment.
- To cooperate with other animal-related organizations for the purpose of reducing the population of unwanted cats and dogs through adoption, spay/neuter and educational programs.
- To further educate the public regarding the important benefits of the human/companion animal bond.
- To promote respect for creatures of all species.
President - Kurt Szalay
Secretary - Karen Smith
Treasurer - Shirley Thompson
Volunteer Coordinator - Terri Johnson
Foster Coordinator - Tina Bilodeau
Member at Large - Erica Cooper
Member at Large - Cheri Smith






