Friends of Indianapolis Dogs Outside (FIDO) is a non-profit organization founded in 2005 that focuses on helping dog owners improve the quality of life for their outside dogs. Our specific mission is to help owners find alternatives to continuous chaining as a method of dog containment. FIDO strives to empower dog owners by recognizing that most of our clients want the best for their dogs, but may lack the resources and support to provide long-term humane conditions for their animals. By providing this essential support, FIDO is working toward it goals to keep pets healthy, happy, and in loving homes whenever possible. The accomplish our mission, FIDO offers five core services:
- FIDO partners with Indianapolis Animal Care Services (IACS) on weekly "alley outreach" days in targeted neighborhoods to seek out dogs in need and to offer information, services, and support to their owners.
- During The FIDO phone help line and open warehouse hours, volunteers and staff respond to requests for assistance from dog owners, many of whom have been referred by IACS officers. FIDO provides information on the dog care and treatment ordinance, offers supplies and services to help owners comply, and helps keep dogs in the home and out of the local overcrowded animal shelter/rescue system.
- FIDO operates the only pet food pantry in Indianapolis, distributing over 10 thousand pounds of pet food to households in need each month.
- FIDO offers free or discounted spay/neuter and vaccinations as an incentive for compliance. FIDO is one of the few animal welfare organizations in Indianapolis that provides transportation to the spay/neuter clinic for owners lacking their own transportation.
- FIDO is the only local animal agency operating a fencing program to assist low-income dog owners with secure fenced enclosures as an alternative to chaining.