Our Story

BARL was incorporated in 1981 as a limited-admission animal welfare group to sponsor the care, treatment and well being of animals in the Brookhaven area. In 1982 we received our 501c3 status.

BARL remained an all-volunteer organization until 2006, when we moved into our current facility. At this point, it was necessary to hire a part-time staff person to handle daily cleaning; however, volunteers are still the key to BARL's success.

Over the years, BARL has expanded its services from Lincoln County to encompass neighboring Franklin and Copiah counties.

In 2025 BARL revamped its cat room with a focus on the health and contentment of our felines. The old cages were replaced with modern stainless steel enclosures featuring portals that allow cats to move between spaces. An isolation room was added. The cat room was opened up to include two partitioned, screened sections. The BARL cats enjoy fresh air and sunshine on the connected sun porch, along with new cat towers and cozy perches for lounging and play.