1. Goats of Anarchy
Goats of Anarchy is where special needs goats live their best lives, thanks to founder Leanne Lauricella's total life flip from Manhattan corporate events to goat mama extraordinaire. After a chance encounter with factory farming videos changed her worldview, Leanne traded her stilettos for mud boots and never looked back.
What started with two goats, Jax and Opie (named after “Sons of Anarchy” that she was deep into binging at the time), has blossomed into a 30-acre haven in Hampton, NJ. This five-star resort for goats who need a little extra TLC comes complete with custom wheelchairs, prosthetics and enough personality to be the stars of their own reality show. Goats of Anarchy shows us that different is beautiful…one wobbly goat at a time.
2. Elderdog Canada
When academic research met puppy love, ElderDog Canada was born, the brilliant brainchild of Dr. Ardra Cole that's been matching senior pups with older adults since 2009. Created from a heartwarming mix of scientific study and personal experience, this organization is basically a matchmaking service for gray-muzzled dogs and their human counterparts.
After losing her brother and caring for his aging pup, Dr. Cole turned her grief into purpose, creating a network that not only rehomes senior dogs but also helps older adults keep their four-legged friends by providing dog-walking and pet-care support.
3. Sweet Sanctuary
Nestled in Mississippi Mills, Ontario, Sweet Sanctuary is living proof that dreams really do come true, especially if you're a formerly farmed animal in need of a fresh start. Founded in 2018, this permanent summer camp for farm animals is 85 acres of paradise complete with amenities that would make any animal influencer jealous.
We're talking a magical pig forest (yes, that's what it’s actually called), a goat mountain where every day is leg day and a cozy 7-stall barn. Every resident, from horses to pigs to goats, gets the star treatment with custom-milled feed, top-notch medical care and most importantly, BFFs of their own species to hang out with.
4. Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary
What started in the 1970s with a kind-hearted, animal-loving educator and an orphaned raccoon has grown into one of Ontario's most heartwarming wildlife success stories. Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary is basically an emergency room, nursery and rehab center rolled into one for wild animals. Every year, they take in over 1,000 furry and feathered patients — from tiny orphaned cubs needing round-the-clock bottle feeds to injured critters in need of some TLC.
While most of their guests eventually head back to their wild ways, the sanctuary also plays permanent host to about 30 wildlife residents who've decided that the high life suits them just fine. And because they're all about spreading the wildlife wisdom, they offer year-round tours where you can meet these permanent residents and learn how to be a better neighbor to your local wildlife.
5. PAWS
When a forward-thinking group came together to raise money for spay and neuter surgeries, PAWS (Progressive Animal Welfare Society) was born. Since then, they’ve united over 130,000 pets with loving families and cared for more than 140,000 wild animals. Based in Lynnwood, Washington, PAWS operates a companion animal shelter, spay/neuter clinic and wildlife rehabilitation center, providing top-notch care for animals in need.
What began as a small thrift store to fund spay/neuter surgeries in 1984 has grown into a full-fledged rescue, rehab and education organization. PAWS is on a mission to teach the community about responsible pet ownership and wildlife respect, making the world a better place for animals one paw at a time.
6. Best Friends Animal Sanctuary
It's 1984, and a bunch of friends decide to go all-in on their dream of saving animals by setting up shop in the middle of Utah's stunning red rock desert. What started as a ragtag team with 200 furry friends has blossomed into the headquarters of the no-kill movement.
Today, this slice of animal paradise is home to over 1,600 residents, from purring cats to oinking pigs, all living their best lives against a backdrop that looks like it belongs in a Western movie. The best part? You can check it out for yourself! Pop in for a free tour, volunteer to be a temporary pet parent or really lean into the experience by booking an overnight stay with an adoptable friend.
7. Dog Tales
Dog Tales is a one-of-a-kind animal rescue and horse sanctuary nestled in the lush landscapes of King City, Ontario. Spanning 50 acres of rolling hills and wooded areas, this place is a well-deserved luxury retreat for abused and neglected animals in need of healing. With therapy pools, grooming spas and endless walking trails, the facility offers a peaceful haven where dogs and horses can recover, receive love and care and get training to prepare for their forever homes.
Founded in 2014 by passionate animal lovers Rob and Danielle, Dog Tales goes above and beyond with its beautifully decorated kennel spaces, first-rate medical care and cheerful atmosphere to provide a soft landing for animals to heal and thrive in comfort.
8. Happily Ever Esther Farm Sanctuary
Who knew a pig named Esther could inspire such an amazing legacy? Since 2014, Happily Ever Esther Farm Sanctuary has been writing happy endings for countless rescued animals who probably never thought they'd get one. It's like a real-life Charlotte's Web, where every oink, moo and cluck gets the royal treatment.
The sanctuary doesn't just save animals; it's on a mission to show the world that these creatures are just as unique and deserving of love as your family pet. Spend five minutes watching a pig do zoomies or a chicken cuddle up for pets, and you'll never look at your plate the same way again.
9. Catskill Animal Sanctuary
Tucked away in New York’s stunning Hudson Valley, this 150-acre haven is a sanctuary for rescued farm animals. For over two decades, Catskill has been rolling out the red carpet for everyone from tiny chickens to massive cows, giving them the VIP treatment they deserve.
Want to see what happens when a turkey decides your lap is the perfect napping spot? Or when a cow gives you a slobbery kiss? With engaging tours, kid-friendly programs and even vegan cooking classes, you might just find yourself planning a weekend getaway at their charming farmhouse. Just be ready for some very enthusiastic roosters to serve as your morning alarm clock!