10 Animal Sanctuaries That are Doing Amazing Work

More than 1,500 animal sanctuaries operate throughout the U.S., each providing its inhabitants with unique, individualized care and a forever home. Most animals that enter sanctuaries have experienced some type of abuse, neglect, abandonment, or separation from humans or their families.

Furthermore, many animals in sanctuaries are unlikely to be released into the wild, meaning that animals will live in these places for several years or even decades. Therefore, animal sanctuaries must provide proactive care and excellent living conditions for their inhabitants. Check out some of our favorite animal sanctuaries doing amazing work, and discover the features that make each unique.

Farm Sanctuary

Founded in 1986, Farm Sanctuary protests factory farming and raises awareness about responsible, non-abusive farming methods. Most animals that enter the sanctuary are former farm animals used for dairy, egg, or meat production. Factory farms operate to produce animal products as quickly and cheaply as possible. To cut costs, farms also cut corners on animal care, decreasing animal welfare and sometimes resulting in physical and emotional abuse.

Farm Sanctuary not only takes in and rehabilitates these animals but also raises awareness about participating in a vegan lifestyle. Three pillars constitute part of the Farm Sanctuary mission: Rescue, Advocacy, and Education. Various animals rescued by Farm Sanctuary are featured on their website alongside profiles describing their stories.

The organization also works with local civil service representatives and legislators to create stricter regulations concerning factory farming. Finally, Farm Sanctuary educates the public and its visitors through summer camps for kids, virtual programming by grade level, and research within the facility.

Best Friends Animal Sanctuary

Best Friends Animal Sanctuary was established in 1984 in Kanab, Utah. The founders purchased 3,300 acres of land in a red-rock canyon, which they later transformed into an animal sanctuary. When the project began, a group of animal welfare advocates and 200 animals were present. Now, the refuge boasts more than 1,600 inhabitants and continues to spread its no-kill message around the nation.

Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge

Maybe you’ve heard of Big Cat Rescue, a big cat sanctuary owned by Carole Baskin, nemesis to Joe Exotic, star of Netflix’s Tiger King. The show gained fame after COVID-19 sent the public into their homes and in front of their TVs. Millions across the country watched the two TV personalities battle for the title of the best big cat refuge, but both sanctuaries were shut down after the show aired. Joe Exotic’s animals went to the Wild Animal Sanctuary in Colorado, while Baskin’s cats were rehomed at Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge.

The cats surrendered to Turpentine Creek have typically suffered some abuse and cannot be released back into the wild. Big cats living at Turpentine Creek will stay there for the remainder of their lives, cared for diligently by dedicated staff and volunteers. Additionally, the facility raises awareness about the dangers of the exotic animal trade and the need to preserve big cats. Visitors can find education resources online and view the programming and activities calendar, highlighting various education sessions appropriate for all ages.

Catskill Animal Sanctuary

Like Farm Sanctuary, Catskill Animal Sanctuary also takes in farm animals who have experienced animal cruelty, homelessness, or neglect. Catskill Animal Sanctuary in Saugerties, New York, protects animal welfare, promotes veganism, and protests factory farming. Through adult and child education resources and sessions, the sanctuary has made great strides in improving the public’s attitude toward farm animals.

For over 20 years, the refuge has protected and cared for more than 5,000 animals. Hundreds of animals live in the sanctuary, and their photos and names can be found on the facility’s website. Meet the animals and team at Catskill Animal Sanctuary online or in person to learn more about how they’re improving animal welfare.

Chimp Haven

Chimp Haven, a Louisiana sanctuary for retired lab research animals, offers great apes another opportunity to live in nature. With over 200 acres for chimps to explore and 300 companions to get to know, Chimp Haven provides endless resources and possibilities for retired primates. In 2002, the organization was granted a federal contract to serve as the national chimpanzee sanctuary. By 2005, the refuge welcomed its first chimps, Rita and Teresa, to the facility.

Furthermore, Chimp Haven saw an incredible victory in 2015 when the National Institutes of Health stopped using chimpanzees for medical research. At the same time, the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service classified chimps as an endangered species protected under the Endangered Species Act. Chimp Haven continues to take in and care for retired chimps as well as primates from other sanctuaries.

Proud Spirit Horse Sanctuary

Proud Spirit Horse Sanctuary began in Florida on a tiny five acres of land with one humble horse. Today, the sanctuary has expanded to more than 180 acres and moved twice across the country. The sanctuary’s founder, Melanie Sue Bowles, created the facility to care for elderly and abused horses. One interesting fact about Proud Spirit Horse Sanctuary is that the horses on-site are never stalled, allowing them to run, graze, and explore freely with their herd. The sanctuary has housed and cared for over 300 horses and continues its legacy through donations, education, and rescue.

Goats of Anarchy

While farm factories are known to neglect or kill disabled animals, Goats of Anarchy provides care and a second chance at life for mistreated and disabled goats. The Hampton, New Jersey sanctuary covers 30 acres and houses 240 animals. The sanctuary’s goals include promoting veganism, providing a safe forever home to animals, and raising awareness about disability inclusion.

Leanne Lauricella, founder of Goats of Anarchy, started researching factory farming in 2014. After discovering the abuse taking place in animal agriculture, she purchased two goats and began documenting their journey on Instagram, naming her account “Goats of Anarchy.” As her following grew, her dreams expanded, and she committed to providing a better place for goats to thrive and receive care. Now, Lauricella runs her goat sanctuary, which specializes in caring for goats with disabilities.

The Wild Animal Sanctuary

The Wild Animal Sanctuary in Keenesburg, Colorado, claims one of the world’s most reputable and expansive sanctuary facilities focusing on rescuing big cats and endangered carnivores. Positioned on 33,000 vast acres of beautiful land with big, blue skies, the Wild Animal Sanctuary provides stunning views for animals and visitors alike. Furthermore, the facility has 120 habitats housing more than 1,000 animals, ranging from tigers and lions to bears and wolves. One interesting fact about the Wild Animal Sanctuary is that Joe Exotic’s big cats, which were featured on Netflix’s Tiger King, now live there after the closure of G.W. Zoo.

Woodstock Farm Sanctuary

Woodstock Farm Sanctuary provides a refuge for farm animals mistreated or neglected by factory farming techniques. Although it was founded in Woodstock, New York, it moved to High Falls, New York, in 2015. The sanctuary, which is located on 150 expansive acres, allows animals to enjoy wide open spaces they’ve never encountered before.

The facility also includes an award-winning inn on-site, The Gray Barn. Visitors can reserve a room at The Gray Barn to enjoy more of the sanctuary overnight. Furthermore, the area hosts various seasonal events and offers public tours of the farm on weekends.

The Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee

The Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee is one-of-a-kind, housing and caring for elephants for more than 30 years. Part of the organization’s mission includes providing elephants with companionship, individualized care, and more opportunities to live life fully. Tarra, an elephant born in Myanmar in 1974, had had a prolific career as a circus performer in the United States. She became the first elephant rescued by The Elephant Sanctuary, where she lived for 26 years.

Although Tarra was returned to her former owner after nearly 30 years in the sanctuary, the organization continues its indelible work with other residents, including African and Asian elephants. Visitors to the refuge can attend education sessions, participate in informational activities, and learn about volunteer opportunities. For those who can’t visit, the sanctuary broadcasts three live video cameras within the park called “elecams.” Check out the sanctuary’s website for more information.