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Frequently Asked Questions

How much does an ARF birthday party cost?
The price is $15 per child. There is a minimum price of $150, even if there are fewer than 10 guests.

What age group is appropriate for ARF birthday parties?
Ages 4 - 12.

What is included in an ARF birthday party?

  • A visit from an ARF therapy pet
  • A tour of the Adoption Center
  • The Learning Center Program
  • Experienced Birthday Party Leaders
  • Printable invitations and thank you cards
  • Room rental
  • Party favors for all party guests including: A lifelike plush pet and ARF Rescue Patrol® Coloring Book

What size are the plush animals?
The guest of honor will receive a plush animal that is 12 inches in length and each party guest will receive a plush animal that is 6 inches in length.

How do I schedule a party?
Please look at our calendar for available dates and times, and fill out an online reservation form. For additional information, contact us at learningcenter@arf.net or 925.296.3147.

Information to have ready when scheduling:

  • Contact name, address, home phone number, cell phone number (if applicable), email address
  • Guest of Honor’s name and age
  • Preferred party date & time, plus alternative date & time
  • Number of children you are inviting
  • Number of adults you think may attend the party
  • Any special needs that you are aware of (children in wheelchairs, food allergies, etc)
  • Deposit to reserve party date (credit card numbers can be taken over the phone or checks may be dropped off or mailed to Birthday Parties c/o ARF 2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek, CA 94598)

How many guests may I invite?
There is a minimum of 10 guests for the birthday party, and a maximum of 24 children.

How long does the party last?
The party is two hours. The first hour and a half is devoted to the Learning Center Program and Adoption Center tour. The remaining half hour is yours to use as you please. You are welcome to serve pizza and cake, although most parents opt for snacks and cake.

What can I bring to the party?

These items are welcome at ARF:*

  • Birthday cake
  • Birthday candles
  • Decorations
  • Masking tape
  • Snacks
  • Pizza
  • Helium balloons are a festive addition to any party, however if they "escape" from the party room they may set off the ARF alarm system. Please make sure balloons leaving the party are secured tightly.

Please leave these items at home:

  • Duct tape
  • Piñatas
  • Confetti
  • Silly String
  • Personal Pets
* If you want to bring additional items to the party, please check with a birthday party specialist prior to the event.

How many tables are in the room? What are the dimensions?
There are four 48" round tables in the room with six chairs each. There are also two 72"x18" tables available to place snacks, cake and presents on.

Will I have time to set up the room in advance?
You may have access to the party room ½ hour before the party start time.

Can ARF accommodate a birthday cake that needs to be frozen or refrigerated?
ARF does not have the ability to accommodate frozen cakes. Small cakes may be refrigerated during the party with advanced notice. ARF recommends purchasing cakes that can sit out during the party.

Should supervising adults attend a child’s party?
An adult must be present at every party. We also request that a parent be present for every child 3 years of age and younger. It is not necessary for all parents of party guests above the age of three to be in attendance during the party. You will not be charged for attending adults.

Is a deposit required to reserve a party date and is it refundable?
We require a $75 deposit to secure the date. The deposit is applied to the cost of your party on the date of your visit. Deposits can be made through PayPal, credit card or by check. Credit card numbers can be taken over the phone or checks may be dropped off or mailed to Birthday Parties c/o ARF 2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek, CA 94598. We are happy to reschedule events, however this may not always be possible. Deposits will be refunded if cancellations are made no later than two weeks prior to the event. If less than two weeks notice is given, ARF may apply the deposit to other People Connect programming for your child or else the deposit will be forfeited.

Do the birthday party docents and assistants accept tips?
Our staff members and volunteers do not accept monetary tips for birthday parties.  If you wish to make a donation to ARF, any staff member is happy to assist you.  Donations of cat and dog toys are also gladly accepted.  Some parties even encourage guests to bring a pet toy as a "present" to the ARF animals in celebration of the birthday child's big day. 

 

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