One Step Closer Animal Rescue (O.S.C.A.R.)

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OSCAR Shelter Fire - Update Feb. 12, 2026

We want to share an important update with our community. The fire at our Andover shelter yesterday caused catastrophic damage to our kennel area, where the fire was contained, and significant smoke damage to other structures on the property.

Tragically, six dogs perished in the fire. We are heartbroken beyond words.

We are grateful to report that all remaining dogs are accounted for and are currently receiving care through temporary housing, foster placements, and partner rescues.

Please do not come to the shelter property. Recovery efforts are ongoing, and limiting traffic in the area is critical for safety.

At this time, we do not have space for physical donations.

The most urgent way to help is by contributing to our GoFundMe to cover emergency veterinary care, medical treatment, and foster expenses: GoFundMe Emergency-Support-for-OSCAR-Dogs

If you are interested in fostering or adopting, applications are available on this website.

For questions or to coordinate assistance, please contact: (862) 243-2962 or email: oscaremergency2026@gmail.com
We are deeply thankful for the outpouring of community support. Your donations, messages, and willingness to step up for these dogs mean more than we can express.

We will continue to share verified updates here.
Thank you for standing with OSCAR.

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Update Feb. 14, 2026

As you know, our shelter was destroyed in a fire on Feb. 11. All of our dogs are in temporary housing, with fosters or at local shelters. All pet adoptions at the shelter have been cancelled. We have also had to cancel all of our DNYP Puppy Yoga events.

As we regroup and are able to make plans, we will post all off-site new pet adoption events and new Puppy Yoga events here and on Facebook. Please follow OSCAR Animal Rescue on Facebook for the latest updates. We are thankful for your continued support and prayers.

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Our Rescue was created through the desire to save the lives of innocent animals. All of our members have a strong passion to save as many dogs and cats as we can, as well as a commitment to ensure great futures for all of the pets we rescue.

Our Shelter is now operating. However, please note that the shelter is NOT open to the public and is by appointment only and only for persons with approved applications on file. Some may ask, "Why isn't the shelter open for walk through visits? Why do I have to make an appointment to see the animals?"

At O.S.C.A.R., one of our highest priorities is the health and well-being of the animals in our care. Unlike city shelters or pounds, whose residents are in place for a short time, as a no-kill shelter, our pets can be with us for a longer period of time. The shelter is the only safe place and home they know. When strangers, even well-meaning ones looking to adopt, walk through the shelter, it stresses our animals.

We make appointments for potential adopters to meet our dogs either in our Bark Yard or one of our meeting rooms. We'll spend as much time as you need and introduce you to as many animals as you'd like to meet in order to make the best match and help you find the perfect new family member!


 

Our web site contains lots of valuable and interesting information about adopting rescue dogs, fostering, pet adoption events, Happy Tails, and more.
 

Adoptable DOGS can be found on www.adoptapet.com/OSCAR-Dogs


Adoptable CATS can be found on www.adoptapet.com/OSCAR-Cats


After you have found the perfect pet, please
go to O.S.C.A.R. Application & Info.


One Step Closer Animal Rescue (O.S.C.A.R.) is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization run by dedicated volunteers.

 

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FACEBOOK

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O.S.C.A.R. on INSTAGRAM!

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O.S.C.A.R. Pet Adoptions & Events 2026

*** List of dogs available at Pet Adoption events will be
posted on Facebook/Instagram prior to event.


WINTER 2026

Update Feb. 14, 2026

As you know, our shelter was destroyed in a fire on Feb. 11. All of our dogs are in temporary housing, with fosters or at local shelters. All pet adoptions at the shelter have been cancelled. We have also had to cancel all of our DNYP Puppy Yoga events.

As we regroup and are able to make plans, we will post all off-site new pet adoption events and new Puppy Yoga events here and on Facebook. Please follow OSCAR Animal Rescue on Facebook for the latest updates. We are thankful for your continued support and prayers.

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VOLUNTEER DOG WALKERS NEEDED!

We are looking for volunteer dog walkers to volunteer at our kennel in our dog walking program Monday-Friday from 4pm-6pm.

The dogs love going for walks and getting out of their kennels, which helps reduce kennel stress. They also like consistency and seeing the same people can help establish trust and a strong bond.

We are looking for a handful of volunteers to commit to at least 1 night every week to walk dogs. You are more than welcome to commit to more then 1 night a week.

For example, you can commit to every Monday and every Tuesday to walk dogs or whatever day(s) work for you, but be consistent and dependable on the day(s) you choose.

Below are the requirements for a dog walker in this program.

Volunteer Requirements:

*Must be 18 years or older
*Must be able to handle strong dogs
*Must attend volunteer/dog handler orientation (due to covid we will train anyone individually)
*Must commit to at least 1 night every week (Monday-Friday) - that night needs to be consistent and not fluctuate between days of the week. This way we can ensure all dogs get walked every night.

If you are interested or have questions please contact us at OSCARRescue@yahoo.com.

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During this unsettling time of the Coronavirus, we had to cancel many of our public Pet Adoption Events. There are always many pets needing their forever homes. Our shelter will still be an open for 'Meet & Greet' Pet Adoptions. PLEASE KNOW... an approved application is required first. A 'Meet & Greet' must be scheduled by the OSCAR Office Staff. All family members attending must be free of symptoms.

Something else to know... Pet adoption fees help to support our Rescue. All of the pets under our care continue to need food, supplies, and veterinary care. Please consider making a donation to help OSCAR continue to provide the best care to our dogs and cats. OSCAR Animal Rescue PO Box 248 Sparta, NJ 07871. Thank you.

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Kids Helping O.S.C.A.R.
 

We realize how important it is for kids to learn how to help animals and that there are animals in need in their community. We have different ways to help, all of which benefit the rescue. Kids learn the value of setting goals and feeling like they are making a difference.

Be sure to visit our page Kids Helping O.S.C.A.R. to read more about O.S.C.A.R. and our local kids!

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KIDS - Here is a great way that you can help O.S.C.A.R.! Collect change, then give us a call. We'll arrange for you to come down and have a personal tour of our new shelter. You'll get to see the dogs and cats you are helping.
 

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August 2020

Kids Helping Animals:

This is Lila Anacker. She raised money and got donations from friends and family.
The staff and the dogs and cats of OSCAR say, "Thank You!!!"

See more photos of our young friends on
Kids Helping O.S.C.A.R.

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Animal Kennel Attendant

Full Time Shift(s) Needed: SUNDAYS 8AM-6PM, SATURDAYS 8AM-6PM, MONDAY 8AM-6PM, TUESDAY 8AM-6PM, WEDNESDAY 8AM-6PM, FRIDAY 8AM-6PM

Part Time Shift(s) Needed: SUNDAYS 8AM-1PM, SATURDAYS 8AM-1PM, FRIDAYS 8AM-1PM, TUESDAYS 8AM-1PM, WEDNESDAY 8AM-1PM , THURSDAY 8AM-1PM

**Flexible schedule Part/Full time offered
**Pay rate $16/hour

We are looking for highly motivated and dependable individuals who are able to work in a fast-paced environment and provide excellent care to our dogs.

Kennel Attendant Requirements:

• Must have a love for dogs.
• Must be 18 years of age or older.
• Must have reliable vehicle.
• Must have honest and dependable personality traits and strong work ethic
• Must possess work habits for working independently and part as of a team, to multi-task and pay attention to detail.
• Must by physically able to lift 40+ pounds, stand, sit or squat for extended periods of time.
• MUST available for flexible scheduling and working weekends and holidays.
• Prefer experience which demonstrates strong dog handling skills and comfort around dogs of all sizes and temperaments. Although previous animal experience is strongly preferred, we will train the right person.

Kennel Attendant Description:

• Walk dogs according to kennel's policy in all weather conditions.
• Rotate dogs in and out of play yards.
• Pick up dog waste.
• Feeding.
• Ensure fresh water is provided at all times.
• Administer medications.
• Observe dogs for any signs of illness and report to kennel supervisor.
• Transport dogs to vet offices or other locations if necessary.
• Ensure all play yards are clean and fresh water is available at all times.
• Rake leaves when necessary.
• Shovel snow when necessary.
• Extensive cleaning of the facility including:
• Clean and sanitize kennels and ensure clean bedding.
• Sweep floors.
• Mop floors.
• Clean counter tops and surfaces.
• Wash dishes.
• Laundry (wash, dry, fold and store)
• Empty garbage

7 days a week: 8 am to 6 pm

In your response email, please list the following:

• List your availability based on the shifts/hours above. List all possible shifts. Doesn't mean you will work them all. The more availability, the better.
• Are you in school or do you have another job. If so, please attach or list schedule.
  
• Your previous experience with dogs
• Attach Resume
• How far do you live from Hopatcong, NJ? Are you comfortable driving in inclement weather? We house live animals that NEED us there, regardless of weather conditions.
• Please set yourself apart and tell us why you'd make a good member of our team!

Please send your resume and additional info to: OSCARRescue@yahoo.com.

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FEATURED DOGS & CATS



Sometimes there is a dog or cat whose face or story just touches your heart.

Please be sure to see O.S.C.A.R.'s Featured Pets!

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Love Dogs & Cats, but can't adopt?
Sponsor an O.S.C.A.R. Pet!

Would you like to honor someone special or make a Memorial Donation?

Find out more on our Donations page.
 

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All rights reserved.