Why BAARC, Why Now?
Berkeley Humane has been a lifeline for pets and the people who love them for more than a century. But today, we’re at a breaking point. Our team performs miracles every day, but in facilities that are damaged, outdated, and inadequate.
Every year, we treat thousands of complex medical cases, place hundreds of pets in loving homes, and help thousands of pet families stay together. Yet the demand continues to grow, and our current space just can’t keep up.
But together we can change that.
To continue this work—and do it even better—we must act now. The Bay Area Animal Resource Center, or more affectionately BAARC, is the answer. A purpose-built, modern pet care campus that will allow us to save more lives, provide more services, and build a stronger resource for the region’s entire animal well-being community.
More Care for the Ones Who Care for You.
BAARC is so much more than a shelter. It’s a hub for adoption, medical care, training, and community. A place where dogs, cats, families, and like-minded organizations can find the help and resources they need for a lifetime of love and companionship.
If you believe every pet deserves a loving home, and that every pet parent needs a dependable support system, then BAARC matters to you. We invite you to join us on our journey.
Coming Soon
A New Shelter from the Norm.
BAARC’s future campus, designed by one of the nation’s leading veterinary architecture and design firms, will bring Berkeley Humane’s decades of experience and impact into one transformative space.
BAARC's Campus and Hospital will Offer:
- Adoption services, including foster care
- Medical and dental care
- Surgical suites, recovery areas, and pharmacy services
- Behavior, social and educational training programs
- Ongoing family and community support, including safety-net services
BAARC ensures Berkeley Humane can keep its promise and fulfill its legacy:
Finding loving homes for 100 percent of adoptable animals who come through our doors.
Phase 1 (2025 - 2027)
- 6,000 sq. ft. Medical and Adoption Center
- Special Cat Care/Lounge Area
- 2,500 sq. ft. Dog Pavilion and Courtyard
Future Expansion
- 10,000 sq. ft. for training and community programs
Beyond Berkeley
Expanded Services, Greater Reach.
While our roots, values, and facilities proudly hail from Berkeley, our reach extends across the Bay Area, Northern California, the Central Valley, and beyond.
Organizations as far as Hawaii rely on us during crises and evacuations, such as earthquakes and wildfires.
This new campus will allow us to better support pets and families during times of joy and trauma. It will be a hub of animal care, love, and support.
Support Our Pets & Families
BAARC: Building for Life
Every gift brings us closer to a future where more animals thrive, and life is healthier and happier for the dogs, cats, and the people who love them.
Ways to Give
Every gift brings us closer to a future where more animals thrive, and life is healthier and happier for the dogs, cats and the people who love them.
Naming Opportunities
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Contact Us Building Sponsor: Legacy Naming Rights
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Contact Us Dog Pavilion
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$500,000 Surgery Suite
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$250,000 Hospital Exam/Dental Area
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$75,000 Food Prep Kitchens
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$25,000 Dog Kennels & Cat Condos
Giving Levels
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$100,000+ Leadership: Legacy of Love
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Up to $49,000 Pace Setter: Heart of the Shelter
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$5,000 - $9,999 Patron: Guardian of Love
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Up to $4,999 Friend: Tail Wagger
Closed for Construction
Open to Fosters
Our shelter doors may be closed for construction, but our lifesaving work continues, because the need never stops, and love never takes a holiday. During this time, we’ve pivoted to a foster-based model, and we need your help. We’re looking for compassionate community members to temporarily open their homes and hearts to our adoptable dogs and cats. It’s a short-term commitment with a long-term impact.
