The Real “Rescue Heroes” of Lakeland, Mulberry, and Bartow
When you’re looking to adopt or support, these are the boots-on-the-ground organizations that are actually changing the statistics in Polk County.
1. Polk County Bully Project (Lakeland-based)
Owner Amber’s son- Tristan – volunteered with Campfire during the summer to help organize supplies!
These folks are doing the heavy lifting for the most misunderstood breeds in our county. They pull “rescue-only” dogs from Animal Control that otherwise wouldn’t stand a chance.
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What they care for: Bully breeds (Pit Bulls, Staffies, etc.) and heartworm-positive dogs.
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The “Hot Info”: They are a huge reason why the euthanasia rates at our county shelter are finally starting to drop. They focus on education to end the stigma.
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How to Support: They always need fosters—especially for dogs that just need a soft place to land after the stress of the shelter.
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Link: bullyprojectrescue.org
2. Botany Cats (Lakeland Mobile/Pop-up)
Created by a fellow former vet tech, this is Florida’s first mobile cat adoption lounge and plant nursery. It’s genius.
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What they care for: Cats and kittens (and they sell pet-safe plants!).
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The “Hot Info”: It’s a mobile camper (Demeter) that pops up at places like the Polk Museum of Art or the Curb Market. It’s the least stressful way to meet a new cat.
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How to Support: Book a visit to the lounge! The fees help keep the “cat-bulance” running and the kitties fed.
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Link: botanycats.com
3. Husky Life Rescue (Lakeland/Polk County)
Huskies are beautiful, but they are a lot of dog. This rescue specializes in the specific needs of Northern breeds in the Florida heat.
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What they care for: Siberian Huskies and Husky mixes.
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The “Hot Info”: They don’t just “flip” dogs; they focus on training and grooming education so these high-energy dogs actually stay in their forever homes.
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How to Support: Donations for grooming supplies and high-quality food are always appreciated.
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Link: huskyliferescue.org
4. SPCA Florida (Lakeland)
Amber Recently volunteered at the SPCA through Florida SARC to help with a Panleukopenia Outbreak using her Veterinary Nurse Skills
The community cornerstone. They handle high-volume adoptions and provide an incredible resources for the city.
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What they care for: Dogs and cats.
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The “Hot Info”: Their medical facility is top-tier including a hypobaric chamber. If you adopted from them, you know they set you up for success.
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Link: spcaflorida.org
5.Raining Cats + Dogs ( Plant City )
Girl Scout Troop 74711( look for Owner Ambers daughter Aria in picture!) recently donated Girl Scout cookies to the volunteers at Raining Cats + Dogs
While not in Polk County- they are 3 minutes away from County Line and are a great volunteer led and ran small shelter
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What they care for: Dogs and cats.
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The “Hot Info”: They don’t have much, but they do so much! Fair adoption prices, and nice volunteers!
6. Humane Society of Polk County (Mulberry/Bartow)
A no-kill landmark that has been serving our community for decades.
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What they care for: Dogs and cats.
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The “Hot Info”: Their facility on the Mulberry/Bartow line is peaceful and well-run. They really take the time to match temperament to the owner, have a lots of pets in foster homes- so check out their website first!
7. Polk County Animal Control (Bartow)
Cinco was adopted from PCAC 8 years ago after his original owner went to jail 3 separate times after being adopted from Animal Control and each time he was left at the house alone. After round #3 they chose to not allow him to go back to his original owner.
The municipal shelter. This is where it all starts. Bare basics- low cost adoptions- high kill rate shelter due to it being the so overwhelmed.
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What they care for: Mostly Cats + Dogs
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The “Hot Info”: PCBP and other rescues pull from here, but you can also adopt directly. It’s the highest-need facility in the county.
Amber’s Professional Take:
Whether you’re bringing home a “velvet hippos” from the Bully Project or a “tiny panther” from Botany Cats, your new rescue pet is going to need a routine to feel safe.
The Next Step: Just adopted? Atta Boy! offers a “Rescue Reset” ( aka Midday Potty and Play breaks!) where we provide extra-long visits to help your new family member decompress while you’re at work.
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