Plush Toy Safety PSA

For any collectors of plush toys out there, I would like you to be very careful not to accidentally lose them. Especially not if you live in or are visiting Texas. There is something called the SARF (Stuffed Animal Rescue Foundation). Yes, such a thing exists: https://thesarf.org/. This odd organization supposedly collects stuffed toys (not just animals) found in public places and then puts them up for free for applicants to take, with the assumption that the toys were deliberately abandoned. More than likely, the toys were simply lost. Despite apparently being a one-person operation, it has redistributed over 200 toys. Once they are on the website or at one of those “petting zoos”, the only way to get them back is to fill out an annoyingly long form and hope for the best (the animals are treated like real pets). Not even highly collectible items are safe: they have rehomed what appears to be a Soundprints Smithsonian Backyard Collection flying squirrel, and several other high-quality plushes. Above all, part of their mission statement is to make the previous owners feel guilty. In fact, this may not even be legal. Whatever you do, be extremely cautious about losing some of your collection in Texas, because they may very well fall into the wrong hands. Share your thoughts!

Apparently, the SARF now offers stuffed animal repair, and also now accepts donations (which means it is going back on its own FAQ policy about not accepting plush toys deliberately sent in). Share your thoughts.

This sounds absolutely crazy

But extremely fun too ! What an idea

I hope it doesn't go for children's beloved sleep-toys, because then there may be heartbreak in many a home

Yes, it is crazy, and no, it isn’t fun for whoever may have lost the items.