This is one of the most wonderful animal sanctuaries to visit. It is so heartwarming to see these beautiful rescued animals in a wonderful environment with such loving care. We donate to this amazing nonprofit every year and ask our family members to contribute too.
Frankly, I've been here several times and took guest with me to so Pat's work will get noticed - top of tops place for sure.
Both The Wild Animal Sanctuary and The Wild Horse Refuge stellar nonprofits. After recently visiting The Wild Animal Sanctuary, it was refreshing to see so many younger people who volunteer and are very enthusiastic about the rescued wild animals at the sanctuary. The facility provides a tremendous amount of education to visitors and is easy to enjoy seeing the animals in large enclosures while walking above the raised walkway.
Well, I have not visited The Wild Horse Refuge yet, I was very honored to feature an article written by Founder and CEO Mr. Pat Craig in the Winter 2023 issue of EquuStyle Art & Travel magazine. To have 23,000 acres for wild horses to be returned to freedom is simply amazing and an effort worth supporting by everyone who loves wild horses.
America’s wild horses are vanishing because laws that were enacted 50 years ago are not being enforced by the Bureau of Land Management. The Wild Horse Refuge wild is one of the most outstanding solutions to preserve wild Mustangs in an open and free habitat. Both The Wild Animal Sanctuary and The Wild Horse Refuge deserve to be recognized as outstanding and model nonprofit organizations.
Setting the standard for real sanctuaries that truly put the animals first. Please support this haven for animals and educate yourself and others on what a real sanctuary is based on their actions and integrity not human interest. Let freedom ring for animals everywhere who dream of being treated with dignity.
This sanctuary's Wild Horse Refuge does amazing work rescuing and rewilding mustangs that have been removed from their home ranges and are at risk.
The Wild Animal Sanctuary and the Wild Horse Refuge in Colorado is spectacular! Pat and Monica Craig have in the last several years realized the challenging plight of our American Wild Horses that are being rounded up and removed from our public lands by our Bureau of Land Management. They have created 2 wild horse refuges in Colorado, one 23,000 acres and the other 10,000 acres to rescue hundreds of horses who need to be adopted and find a forever, heavenly home to continue to run free. This is an excellent nonprofit that provides needed homes and habitat for a plethora of animals! Support them if you can! Excellent!
The Wild Animal Sanctuary, The Wild Animal Refuge, The Wild Horse Refuge and the Wild Animal Sanctuary TX - these facilities rescue animals from horrific captive situations and rehabilitate them so they can live and roam freely within large natural habitats with others of their own kind. INSTEAD GIVE THEM REFUGE and put an end to the captive wildlife crisis - The Wild Animal Sanctuary does just that!
I've been a supporter of this terrific nonprofit for almost 20 years and have volunteered there for almost 13 years. I've seen firsthand the difference TWAS makes in the lives of the thousands of animals it has rescued. Plus it is a place of peace and sanctuary for its employees, volunteers and visitors. I am 72 years old and it has brought more meaning to my life than just about anything else I can think of.
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The Wild Animal Sanctuary is a wonderful, magical place both for its many rescued animals and for the humans who visit there and find it to be a place of peace. I first started visiting there in the mid-2000's and began volunteering in late 2011. It remains the best thing I have ever done. Nothing is more rewarding than watching the progress of the Sanctuary's rescued animals as they recover from their previous lives of abuse and neglect. Soon they are living the good life- safe, well-fed, well-loved and freely roaming undisturbed in the Sanctuary's vast habitats. Heaven on Earth for the animals who reside there and the supporters who visit there.
It was a privilege to volunteer for two years, before moving out of state, at TWAS. I was able to see and experience the incredible dedication of Pat Craig and staff for the well-being of the animals! I was lucky enough to visit The Refuge and I am thrilled they now rescue Colorado wild horses.
I continue to donate and support all their efforts! The Wild Animal Sanctuary is one of a kind!!!
I have supported The Wild Animal Sanctuary for years. In that time, they have flown all over the world rescuing abused captive animals. They added 10,000 acres of land to help more animals and, last year, added 23,000 acres for The Wild Horse Refuge, dedicated to Colorado’s wild horses. They never stop trying to do more, always with the welfare of their animals coming first.
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I have been a supporter of TWAS for many years, including adopting two lions and contributing towards the purchase of the Refuge. TWAS is a world-class true animal sanctuary. How do I know this? Because, people who help animals all over this world know of TWAS, and they regularly fly animals in, the lastest being bears from Beirut, Lebanon. The large habitats are what really set it apart from other true sanctuaries. The animals get to have a good life in peace and quiet, enjoying excellent nutrition and healthcare, among friends and family. Another way to tell a class organization is that TWAS has many more kinds of animals than lions, tigers, and bears...they won't leave an animal if it needs help.
I have been involved with twas since it opened in Keenesburg. I have seen the pain in the eyes of the volunteers, staff and director as they learn of the extreme abuse and starvation the animals in this world, have and are experiencing. Their joy is so very evident when they are able to rescue these abused souls.
I read about the Wild Animal Sanctuary before our trip out west. This place was so different from other rescues by their elevated walkway that allows the animals to be in their habitats without being disturbed by people.
You could read the rescue story of each animal, and even adopt one of your favorites! Even after a very enjoyable and informative visit, they send me a newsletter of the new rescues.
Such an awesome place to visit and donate to save the animals❤
Sanctuary for abused, exploited and at risk animals is the priority at TWAS. But when The Wild Horse Refuge opened last year, a whole new chapter emerged. Saving wild mustangs, rounded up from their federally protected herd areas. Trucked away to holding and an uncertain future. We watched in disbelief and helplessness as these iconic treasures disappeared from the public land. Only to have them turn up in kill pens across the country. Or trucked off to Mexico for slaughter. Now, through the efforts of TWAS, some of these amazing horses are living their best life ever. I am so grateful to them for helping with so many mustangs that had no other options, no place to go. Thanking Pat and Monica for their devotion and support for all the animals. The work being done to protect endangered animals is essential. Being a supporter of this mission is my highest priority. And one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. Will always continue to promote and support this organization.
As a Founding member I have seen over and over again what an amazing job TWAS does. Pat is a Hero in my book and Taylor at the Refuge is as well
I had been wanting to visit ever since I learned of their existence and finally got to last weekend. It was everything I had hoped it would be. You can tell a lot about a place by how employees and volunteers behave. They were all clearly happy to be a part of what's happening there. All the volunteers on the raised walkway were bubbling over with enthusiasm. You could tell they felt privileged to be a part of it all. I was so happy being able to observe the animals from above knowing I was not disturbing them. They were beautiful and content with comfortable habitats. I will visit again when I'm in the area. It's the kind of place you can never get enough of and feel pleased to be able to support and donate to. (As a side note: the salad bar was the best I've eaten at in years both in freshness and variety.)
The Wild Animal Sanctuary is a unique organization in it's view on rehabilitating the animals. Realizing that each animal is an individual and creating a plan depending on the needs of that animal as opposed to just lumping it into a group determined by its species. Giving these animals the care and time and space needed to bring them to a healthy lifestyle is amazing. These large animals can live into their twenties or later so taking on the care is a significant responsibility. Then, creating an elevated foot bridge, so the animals are not affected by visitors is ingenious. This enables visitors to view and learn about the animals without the stress and detriment to them to do so. It is a must see place, but remember it takes multiple hours to visit and always check the website for weather alerts and fluctuating closing times.
There is something truly magical about the The Wild Animal Sanctuary. To view these amazing animals from above knowing you are not intruding on their space is wonderful. They deserve that peace after what they have been through. I have been visiting and donating for many years now and I am always in awe every time I visit or see another incredible rescue. I watched a rescued bear cub playing with a ball being watch over by his surrogate mom. A bear mesmerized by it's back toes having just emerged from hibernation (something it probably was never able to do for most of its life). As a founder, I got to tour the incredible refuge land in SW Colorado. The hard work and dedication of this organization is without bounds.
The Wild Animal Santuary is amazing! The place is beautiful and I was amazed at how big each area was for the animals. They looked so relaxed and playful with each other. It was beautiful to listen to the lions roar and wolves howl! Just blew my mind!
We LOVED our visit to the Wild Animal Sanctuary!! To see wild animals in natural, huge habitats was so AMAZING!! They were clearly content and happy to be in such a natural environment with so much room to roam!! I became an instant fan and supporter!!!
This is the most amazing experience! I’ve never seen an organization that cares so much about their cause and puts so much thought into the protection and quality of life of the animals. The residents at the sanctuary are the happiest I’ve ever seen and it’s heartwarming to see them so well taken care of. I would go back a hundred times if I could!
Wow. What else is there to say? Wow, wow, wow. I am absolutely astonished by everything Pat Craig and TWAS have been able to pull together and accomplish to provide a happy, healthy, almost normal, life for over 700 large carnivores.
And in case that's not enough, they've developed an amazing strategy to educate people about the trauma these animals go through at the hands of ignorant humans and how to change those things and put an end to these animals being so
horrifically abused.
No one else is doing what TWAS is doing on the scale they're doing it and it so badly needs to be done. Like I said, wow, wow, wow.
I first heard of this sanctuary when I came across a picture of Dillan the bear and fell in love. The animals are treated with all the love and respect they deserve in a shockingly large, safe habitat. I am so grateful that this perfect place (and all the people who run it) exists.
I have recently become a volunteer at this sanctuary and this is absolutely the most incredible place! Every acre and habitat has been solely considered for the happiness and care of every animal.
The diversity of the visitors are just as beautifully diverse at the animals! Everyone from staff, to volunteers, to visitors are thoughtful and respectful of each other and the animals!
While I wish there wasn’t a need for The Wild Animal Sanctuary to be in existence, I am so happy that it is because it’s a wonderful place for wild animals to live out the rest of their lives in freedom. They have rescued animals from all over the United States and all over the world! Look at their list of rescues, just since 2010: https://www.wildanimalsanctuary.org/rescue-list
One of their most recent rescues was in Puerto Rico. Every animal was rescued and found a home (some at The Wild Animal Sanctuary and some at other sanctuaries), including a goldfish. That’s what makes this place so amazing and special. EVERY ANIMAL, big or small, mattered.
I was lucky enough to attend the Summer Safari Dinner in June and it was one of the most special things I’ve experienced in my life. Eating our dinner and listening to Pat talk about the work they do, while in the presence of about 10 lions in the Lion House, was truly magical. And then, when the lions began "huffing" in response to Pat speaking.... INDESCRIBABLE! A night I will never forget.
If you ever have the chance to visit, you will be in awe of the work they do. Just the walkway alone, allowing visitors to walk above the animals to keep them out of distress, is a testament to the thought and care they put into everything they do for the animals. This sanctuary is truly FOR the animals and NOT for people.
I will support TWAS for as long as I live!
I started following The Wild Animal Sanctuary when I started following a bear in dire need of rescue, and at the same time a group of lions, tigers, wolves, and bears were rescued from a closed sanctuary where I had volunteered. I was so impressed by their facility, their mission, and the lengths they would go to, all over the world, to rescue wild animals who would not be alive otherwise. I’ve watched countless animals transition to lives in nature instead of concrete pits, go from living in square footage to roaming acres, being rescued from people using and abusing them for money to being cared for by people at TWAS who put their quality of life before profit. I’m in love with what The Wild Animal Sanctuary does and stands for.
The Wild Animal Sanctuary is the most compassionate and caring place for abused and displaced animals to be lucky enough to call home. They are not “zoo” animals on display there, and so visits are so authentic and humbling. Everyone who lives in Colorado, or comes here to visit should do themselves a favor and stop by the sanctuary and experience it for themselves and donate to their cause to help these gorgeous animals stay fed and enjoying their amazing forever homes there! You won’t be sorry you did!
What an amazing place! I cannot say enough good things. Not only is what they do amazing, but the workers there seem to really care. They answered every question we had and seemed to love doing what they do! The animals have such a cool environment that mimics their natural habitat! Would highly recommend! I will definitely be going back and supporting this organization!
The health and welfare of the rescued animals always comes first at The Wild Animal Sanctuary. It is a privilege that human visitors can view them in their spacious free-roaming habitats. Unlike at a zoo, the animals are never forced to be on display, so every visit can be a different experience. Learn their background stories via the audio kiosks along the walkway, and you'll quickly want to become an animal rights advocate, too. TWAS does an admirable job of educating visitors about the captive exotic animal crisis. An army of volunteers help the staff care for animals born into captivity that have nowhere else to go. I hope to eventually volunteer there someday myself.
The presentation this non profit gave is the reason why I'm educated on the horrors that wild animals face around the world. Their magazine is fantastic, I share the info with others and promote them on social media. I value and love the wild animal sanctuary. The dangerous work they do is absolutely inspiring! To me, what they do day in and day out makes them angels on earth!
Michelle Herian
The Wild Animal Sanctuary is an amazing organization. The ability of the the staff and volunteers to organize rescues, raise funds, feed, house and care for these animals is mind boggling. They are definitely a top rated team and facility. I have supported them through donation for many years.
Being a past Volunteer, I witnessed how much work it takes to care for the animals, from preparing food, to build large enclosures, distributing food, teaching customers about the animals to having a full-time vet on the premises. Each animal came from an abusive or negligent situation. The care that is given to each animal is specific to its needs, comprehensive and thorough. The animal is brought back to life and that is love. The way it should be.
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I had the great opportunity to volunteer at TWAS for 6 months. It wasn't just the animals, the birds that visited in the early morning that perched on the walkway, the open fields of grass....it was the feeling I got, a feeling of freedom. As soon as I arrived and when I had to go, this feeling overwhelmed me with a very special joy. This joy knowing that there is a place in the world for animals who have been abused and exploited can live out their lives in peace.
This is a truly remarkable organization. I found out about them due to the amazing work they did in rescuing several hundreds of animals at our Puerto Rico zoo. They are exceptional in their efforts to give animals a better, dignified life.
I gotta tell you, this is the best place in the world for abused wild animals. We've watched this place grow through the years making it more enjoyable for the animals and us when we come to visit. We have donated to them as the need arises and when we can help. We added them into our Will and got an acre of land in their Springfield location. We also use the Colorado Gives Days to help this get that extra bust with our donation. Your reading this now and be assured that this is great Nonprofit to help and go see.
The Wild Animal Sanctuary is the best place on earth! They‘ve rescued so many animals and given them a much better home. They take great care of each and every animal and are so knowledgeable. Visiting is also fun. You can see a lot of different animals from the boardwalk high up without disturbing the wonderful creatures. Also there are many volunteers who are always so kind and fun to talk with.
This Sanctuary is absolutely amazing. The work they do for animals is spectacular and so necessary. The Keensburg site allows visitors to walk “among” the animals on their over 1 mile elevated walkway viewing these magnificent rescued animals in large open enclosures when they can experience freedom and peace.
The newest venture is their Wild Horse Refuge, rescuing wild mustangs and offering them freedom. Looking forward to a stop there this fall. As a multi-year donor, I can’t stop spreading the word. Any visit to the Denver area is not complete without a stop. They have a wonderful gift shop too. I receive comments and compliments on my WAS wear.
Been donating to the Sanctuary for over 20 years personally, and as a automotive club (Colorado Association of Tiger Owners). Our Tigers are Sunbeam Tigers, a Ford V8 powered 2550 pound British roadster. We have seen the Sanctuary grow from the initial trailer and compound to what it is (and the horse and Springfield sanctuaries are today!
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WAS is wonderful. The love and care that they give each and every animal is amazing. The rescue from San Juan is just one of the many animal rescues that I have wholeheartedly supported.
What people have done to wild animals over the centuries is appalling. Even with attitudes changing over time, sometimes it seems way too slow. The Wild Animal Sanctuary fills a specific need that various humane and rescue societies, wonderful as they are, can't begin to tackle. When the sanctuary bought additional land in Colorado to allow more animals to roam in large-acre habitats separate from the original land, it finally began to achieve the original vision of giving previously captive wild animals freedom to live the rest of their lives in a more natural environment. Wonderful. The sanctuary has also been able to assist with international rescues of animals affected by natural disasters, wars, and plummeting budgets. Again, wonderful. Their care of the animals, from safe rescues to ongoing veterinary care and close attention to each animal's welfare, should serve as a model for every animal rescue, including those for domesticated animals. Becoming a donor to support their work is one of the most rewarding efforts available to wild animal lovers like me who can't volunteer in person but can fund their programs. When people visit from out of state, I either take them to the original Wild Animal Sanctuary for a tour or encourage them to visit while here with the hope that they leave inspired to help wild animals however they can.
I used to live in Denver and loved visiting the sanctuary at Keenesberg. I've since moved out of state but make it a point to visit Keenesberg whenever I visit Denver. I am also a monthly donor and have nothing but good things to say about the sanctuary, both in Keenseberg and the expansion in Springfield, CO.
Every time I visit I'm amazed at how well the animals are cared for and how healthy they look in their habitats. I can't say enough good things about my experience and also the amazing photographs in the newsletter and stories about complicated animal rescues such as from the zoo in Puerto Rico. Keep up the good work!
The Wildlife Animal Sanctuary is an absolutely amazing place. The dedication of the staff and volunteers goes beyond measure. They never so no to rescuing an animal in need. They do everything they can to rescue, care for, and love these beautiful animals. It's totally unbelievable to see these animals roaming free in a beautiful habitat. I encourage everyone to visit this incredible sanctuary.
The Wild Animal Sanctuary and Refuge are truly some of the most amazing places on earth! The services they provide in support of displaced and abused wild creatures are beyond belief!! Their dedication to the health and well-being of some the most abused and mistreated wild animals is breathtaking. We are honored to be Refuge “founders”, and we visit the sanctuary often. Being able to share the experience with friends and family in a way that doesn’t stress out the animals is such an incredible and unique experience. Everyone needs to see it at least once!!
TWAS and The Wild Animal Refuge are awesome places to consider supporting. Pat Craig and his team do an amazing job rescuing and caring for the animals. Puerto Rico Zoo. Korean Moon Bears. Tiger King. The list goes on.
This is the greatest wild animal sanctuary in the country. I've been following them on Facebook for years. I donated my "classic" 1987 Honda Civic Hatchback car (in running order and excellent condition) to them last year. It sold for $2,500. They take in abused wild animals from all over the world. Last year they took in lions and a bear from Ukraine that were in need of rehoming because of the war and neglect. Soon they will be rehoming "Hank the Tank" from Lake Tahoe. She was on the local/nation news for being a problem bear that was getting into people's trashcans. People had grown fond of her and didn't want her euthanized, so The Wild Animal Sanctuary stepped up to the plate and now she's coming to Colorado. I'm so proud to say that this rescue organization is in the beautiful State of Colorado.
TWAS is an amazing animal sanctuary. If an animal needs help, they don't say no, even if that animal is not a large carnivore. They go all over the world to rescue animals who are in dire straits and bring them back to Colorado where they get to live in large habitats with others of their species and receive nutritious food, excellent healthcare, kindness and love from their caregivers. This year, Pat Craig and the other staff at TWAS did something that would have seemed impossible to others: They closed down the Puerto Rico Zoo and moved all the animals (300+) to the USA mainland. At the same time, the PR government also asked TWAS to move another 300+ animals that had been confiscated by the government and were being held in a facility. All these animals, especially those in the zoo, were suffering. For almost all of them, they are now in sanctuaries spread out across the USA and finally enjoying their lives. This was a huge undertaking that TWAS did in record time and under difficult circumstances...there were people in PR who did not want the zoo to go away. TWAS deserves the highest of ratings.
The Wild Animal Sanctuary is an incredible facility. The amount of dedication given to these animals by all of the staff and volunteers is incredible to see. They are definitely a top rated facility when it comes to their care and passion towards these animals. I love getting to see these animals live in as natural as an environment as possible. It is great getting to see them roam in large acreages.
This place is the epitome of Sanctuary. The obvoius care and attention given to the animals is unmatched. The quality of life that is uncompromised for these animals is this organizations top priority. And is it evident in the health and well being of their animals.
Wow! What an Organization. Not cliché in regards to, The Wild Animal Sanctuary. This Organization is doing good things and are accomplishing their mission/goals. The Exotic animals in this Organization are given the freedom that they deserve. These animals have been relocated to this Organization and come from such deplorable situation/s and were mistreated, to now living out there best days. Bears, lions, tigers, enjoying the Colorado air. With the mountains giving such an incredible view, this Organization is open for educational purposes to the public and gives us constant reminders to respect nature. Animals should not be on display but at this facility, The Wild Animal Sanctuary truly has the animals benefit in mind. They are not for profit and the pride with-in this facility shows how much heart is in it. We enjoy visiting and are equally proud to have this non-profit in our local area, Colorado. With friendly staff, a bridge way that is elevated, and ample space for these majestic creatures this is a great hot spot for year around visits. Thank you to this Organization for all that you do. I am happy to visit this facility beyond others as it is clean, organized, and well ran.
This Sanctuary goes above and beyond for these Animals. From the process for receiving & integrating the animals, Feeding these Animals, Caring for these Animals, to the incredible habitats that are built for them. These Animals are beyond blessed to have the dedicated Volunteers and Staff that tirelessly care for them day in and day out.
Being part of such a fantastic organization is an honor and privilege. The love and care of everyone who works here and our incredible supporters that make all of this possible are a gift to animals in need worldwide.
I’m an active supporter at The Wild Animal Sanctuary and believe it deserves as much support and recognition as possible. This place is so magical! I visit several times a year and still am excited to see the animals each and every time.
This sanctuary truly cares about the animals welfare. They take these poor animals from their terrible lives and give them the freedom and happiness they so deserve.
This is a great organization who does everything for the animals they rescue. They have elevated walkways so not to disturb the animals. They provide great space for the rescues to live and play, all the food they could want, veterinary care and have a great heart.
They have traveled all over the world to bring back animals that are living in terrible circumstances and provide a lifetime of care for them. They truly exist for the animal's well being and get to know them and their needs and place them in the best environment. Just can't say enough good things about The Wild Animal Sanctuary in Keenesburg, Colorado!
A few years ago, I wanted to spend my birthday at TWAS. They had just rescued several lions from Bolivia and had built a huge building to house the newcomers. We ran into Pat Craig in the visitors’ center and when I told him it was my birthday, he had a volunteer take us to the Bolivian lion building that wasn’t open to the public yet. His kindness and his unwavering concern for the captive wildlife crisis in the world is only matched by the kindness he shows to visitors to the sanctuary. This is an amazing place that takes great care of the animals they rescue and educates people on the dangers of trying to keep large carnivores as pets.
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The Wild Animal Sanctuary is a wonderful place to see animals in large acre habitats; not in small cages like a zoo. Owner Pat Craig is passionate about educating the public on the captive wildlife crisis in this country and the cruel use of animals in circuses and roadside zoos throughout the world. Each animal has a name and a story that can bring you to tears, but you can see how fortunate these animals are to be rescued and brought to a place where they are well cared for and cared about! Kudos also to all the volunteers and workers for their hard work and dedication to the welfare of these animals. Plan a visit to TWAS and you won't be sorry!
What’s sets the wild animal sanctuary apart from other accredited sanctuaries is that they don’t believe in contact with the animals at all, they actually have an overpass built which is fantastic for both the animals and the tourist. The wild animal sanctuary’s education program is why I got into animal advocacy to begin with, I now run a page called animals on the move with over 18,000 supporters supporting accredited sanctuaries all over. With the addition of the wild refuge I don’t believe there’s any comparison as far as the quality of life that the animals can have. Please reward them for all the hard work.
Since my first visit several years ago I have adopted lions, tigers and leopards each year. I have also supported the purchase of new land at the Refuge where these animals will have a natural habitat to live out the rest of their lives. Reading the stories about where these animals have come from breaks my heart but I am so thankful for Pat, and his team at The Wild Animal Sanctuary for rescuing these animals and giving them a wonderful place to live for the rest of their lives. At some point I would love to volunteer here and not just visit.
One of the coolest places our family has been to see lots of animals in as natural a habitat as possible.
Please consider visiting, volunteering or donating. If you care about animals, this is your jam!
The Wildlife Animal Sanctuary is a place where animals get to live their lives in spacious comfortable huge habitats where caring knowledgeable staff and volunteers make sure these innocent beautiful creatures are living their best lives. There is a sign on the wall that says, "Saving one animal may not change the world but it certainly changes the world for that one animal!" That is the mission and life's work for TWAS. I love volunteering and sharing my passion with other like-minded people. Pat Craig always puts the welfare and needs of the animals first. That is why he had a 3 mile walkway built 30' above the animals so they would not be stressed and visitors could still see them enjoying a natural worry-free life in their forever home!
The Wild Animal Sanctuary is the gold standard in captive carnivore sanctuaries. From the very beginning, every single animal is given love, healing, and a chance to finally experience as close to living in the wild as possible. TWAS continuously evolves from designing better rescue methods, creating habitats for the comfort and daily life of the animals , and educating the world about the captive wildlife crisis. There are many ways to help the animals on their website.
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I have been honored to be able to support TWAS for over 10 years. The incredible work that starts when a request for a rescue is made is unbelievable. When you watch a video of a rescue and see the connection the rescuers have with the animal is beautiful. The love and care continues through traveling to the sanctuary and through out the lives of every animal. The most wonderful thing a person can do if at all possible is go see for yourself and I promise you too will want to do more. God bless TWAS and thank you Pat Craig for starting this incredible Sanctuary.
I am an active supporter of this sanctuary and a founder for the refuge because I love and believe in what they are doing. I think everyone should visit this place to truly understand what they do for these animals and how happy they are now.
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The Wild Animal Sanctuary is a top notch group of volunteers and employees. Everything they do is geared to the animals that they have rescued, it’s all for they comfort and well being. I have been a supporter for over ten years and this place is special. So many rescues, lives that have been saved because of this place.
The first time we visited TWAS a few years ago several volunteers explained the process for receiving & integrating the animals. We continue to support the organization & visit once a year after the bears come out of hibernation. I was especially happy to see the Tiger King animals rescued & moved there.
Ive been going here several yrs now n have also followed their travels n care for the animals - I get a flood of memories of their successful rescues to the care for each animal requirements to space they need. The shelters they have are as close to natural as possible - its been a joy to watch them grow n I'm very happy I've adopted, I now have 4 different cats which helps for a bit a care.
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I've been here several times and took guest with me to so Pat's work will get noticed - top of tops place for sure.
Every time we have visited we had so some fun! Watching all the animals be in a safe and comfortable home. I swear they have smiles on their faces! I enjoyed it so much I evened signed up to do the crafts at the events. Love love this place!
Sharon
I love The Wild Animal Sanctuary and this is why ... the animals are beautiful and well fed. To look at them from above, you have the opportunity to watch them peacefully. The animals can be viewed without bars and in their expansive environment. I walk with a crutch and am limited to how far I can go, with that said, that was not the case while visiting The Wild Animal Sanctuary, I was so energized viewing the wonderful residents I didn’t want stop. They’re all beautiful and I loved learning about their history and seeing how well off they are now. I have donated multiple times to help their cause and will be visiting again soon.
I greatly appreciate how TWAS has found a way to allow animal lovers the opportunity to view these amazing creatures from a distance, while allowing the animals the ability to interact freely in their large-acreage habitats and not be impacted or burdened by those humans. These animals have all been rescued from situations that used and abused them, and it is such a breath of fresh air, and a genuine relief to see them at peace, in freedom, and taken care of. If you have the opportunity, it is truly a unique place that will not leave you disappointed. It will leave you inspired and will give you assurance that there are people out there who care more about these beautiful animals’ well-being, and not exploiting them.
My daughter and I were there a week ago today. It was her first time and my second time, we’re from Indiana. She, as did I, really enjoyed watching the bears wrestle in their pools, the tigers curled up next to each other, hearing the lions roar and viewing the wide variety of animals they’ve rescued. We enjoyed it so much so that we were there for 5 1/2 hours (watching the animals) and another hour watching the introductory video and visiting the snack bar and gift shop. My daughter told me she will never visit a zoo again because we are too close to their habitats and they feel frightened. That should never happen with animals that are meant to be wild.
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Since visiting TWAS we will not go to any zoo. The freedom, love and great care the animals receive is beyond what I ever expected. We’ve seen animals come in with very little hope, and the staff at TWAS has completely turned their lives around for the better. We hope they’ll be around for a long time.
I have been going since 1999 and have seen it grow and mature. It is a special place like no other. The animals are cared for with food and medical attention not to mention enrichment and large habitats. Definitely, the best sanctuary of its kind.
This place is AMAZING! Tigers, bears, camels, coyotes, mountain lions and more—all rescued from either substandard zoos, roadside zoos masquerading as sanctuaries or misguided private owners—roam on hundreds of acres of prairie, while visitors watch them from an elevated walkway. Several of the “Tiger King’s” former tigers are now living their best life here! It’s so refreshing to see wild animals happy and in an expansive habitat. Best of all, they let moms in for FREE on Mother’s Day!
This a wonderful organization for all abused animals. They give them so much love and care. I adopt two animals every year. One for myself and one for my grandson. If you have never been, please check it out for yourself. Once you visit you will be hooked. Thanks for all the hard work the volunteers and TWAS does for these wonderful animals. God Bless You all.
I have been a member of the Wild Animal Sanctuary for 3 years now. I go out several times a year, usually at the end of the day when the animals are waking up after their midday naps and are much more active. I can stay anywhere from an hour to 3 hours, watching, walking, photographing, and just enjoying the day. One of the most amazing things to witness is the roaring of the lions, you can hear them long before you see them. In the middle of farm country here in Colorado, hearing lions roar is amazing. The care that these animals receive to make sure they live out their lives as comfortable and realistic in a natural habitat is amazing.
Wild Animal Sanctuary is an amazing place! It's the type of place you feel sadness for these animals and their past but pure happiness that they're now living their best lives. They care for these animals more then anything! If you become a monthly donor you're able to visit a few times a year with family/friends for free.
My family have been supporters of the Wild Animal Sanctuary for years - ever since reading about the amazing work they do. The tour comes with a beautiful, full color book that describes each of the areas you're seeing and briefly tells the story of each animal. Seeing the bears and the tigers enjoy their waterfalls and pools, the lions, foxes and wolves napping in the shade in their habitats, is such a thrilling and heartwarming experience. The Sanctuary's unique elevated walkway is based on research showing animals don't feel threatened by human activity above them. The Welcome Center is a great experience all on its own with its short, award-winning orientation film, its restaurant, ice cream and gift shops. Volunteers stationed along the walkway are friendly and knowledgable and can tell you more about the habitats you're observing. The education center near the tiger roundhouse plays videos of the Sanctuary's astonishing rescues and segments that Animal Planet has done on these animals. We were just there Wednesday (8/4) and it was a wonderful day, as it always is.
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Year after year, the Wild Animal Sanctuary continues to rescue animals worldwide in situations of neglect and abuse, bringing them to Colorado for lives of freedom and dignity. Recently they added a far larger plot of land to house the increasing numbers of animals needing rescue. We encourage everyone to read their quarterly newsletters to understand the level of dedication the Sanctuary demonstrates year after year. We've supported TWAS for over a decade and are honored to be part of this work.
I love visiting here, like to go several times a year, purchase a yearly pass, tend to take lots of other people with me, they all love it. Last year that yearly pass cost me $100 which I thought was reasonable, this year that has changed, now a yearly pass with up to 5 other visitors cost $500. I’m so sad, I could never afford that and each individual cost is $50 a person, that’s is $300 for 6 of us for a 3 hour visit. I will not be visiting the sanctuary again unless they change their prices. I understand they are a non profit and don’t have the same options as zoos, however, I don’t know how the average person can afford that. It makes me very sad, like I said, I look forward to visiting several times a year, it’s a great place, I will miss it a lot!!!
Chrissie
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This one's long, sorry!! I'm 49 this year- I've been an animal rights supporter since I was 19 and did a paper in college about the potential impact of total vegetarianism on our existing economy . My eyes were opened to a LOT of details about factory farming, i stopped eating meat and started volunteering for animal rights organizations.
Many years later I remember my mother telling me she wanted to take me and my daughter to a new Sanctuary that she was supporting that was not far from her house . We had our usual back-and-forth about how I don't support exploiting animals in sanctuaries by staring at them (any introvert can relate) and was guaranteed to ruin the experience for everyone anyone since I always start crying at these places..... yet she insisted this place was different. I allowed her to take my daughter but did not go. My daughter insisted this place was different.
The NEXT time we were there she persisted in asking me to go, and my eyes were opened AGAIN. This Sanctuary is insightful and thoughtful about the perspective of the animals living there and their needs. They have an elevated walkway so that we can see these amazing and beautiful animals and they can feel peaceful, understood, comforted by the company of their peers, and not threatened by intrusive stares.
These guys are DOING IT RIGHT, seriously.
Check them out, spread the word, and support them financially please if you can. It's this kind of thinking that will allow us to rectify some of the sad experiences these animals have had. It's not our fault, but it's within our power to fix because there's places like this that have a good formula and just need revenue to keep it going. Keep up the great work ( and the amazing linkedin videos! )
The animals here are provided large habitats, high quality diets, and world-class vet care. They're able to live their lives as they're supposed to: comfortable, well-cared for, free, and happy.
With every visit to The Wild Animal Sanctuary I am inspired and overcome with immense joy and gratitude.
Because it’s the most beautiful safe haven for the rescued animals and provides them a calm, peaceful, safe, serene and stress free environment.
The spacious habitats are constantly being improved and updated with natural ponds, pools, boulders, rocks, climbing structures, burrows, dens, more trees which mimic the wild.
You can tell that the need of each animal is being met and the animals are a top priority in everything they do.
Being a supporter/donor and now founder, I get to see first hand that my donations are well invested and used for.
It helps provide a better life for many rescued animals because not only they receive the best care, a good healthy diet but also get to live in a state of the art facility together with their own kind.
I love that TWAS/TWAR dedicates lots of time and effort so that each rescue gets to live with a companion, group, a pack or pride.
Two years ago, TWAS expanded by purchasing a beautiful property of 9,684 acres of heaven on earth, in South Eastern Colorado, called The Refuge.
This has given their supporters/donors a wonderful opportunity to become a Founding Member of The Wild Animal Refuge.
In early June of this year, I was able to visit this pristine and wonderful place that many future rescued animals will be calling home.
(The Wild Animal Refuge is closed to the general public, but if you are a Founder you get to enjoy a one day tour by driving on a special course throughout the Refuge).
The current habitats are already inhabited by rescued bears, lions, tigers, wolves, yaks, alpacas and donkeys. Each little group gets to enjoy over 100 to 200 acres amongst themselves
as their forever home.
The Sanctuary & the Refuge are a Blessing for us and a few lucky animals to call it their forever home.
Special praises go out to the visionary and founder Pat Craig, his family, their staff and volunteers.
They are the heart and soul of both places but also the most caring, dedicated, hardworking individuals you will ever meet.
I am eternally grateful and thankful for all they do but mostly for opening our eyes through continuously educating
us about the plight and suffering of the captive held wild carnivores in this country as well as the rest of the world.
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I became a donor when I visited The Wild Animal Sanctuary for the first time 4 years ago.
You can tell how happy, relaxed and chill the animals are, they are lounging peacefully in their state of the art habitats or play with some enrichments or in their pool.
The Founder Pat Craig, his family, staff and volunteers are just wonderful, the most caring, dedicated and hard working people I know. The animals are always their priority.
The visitors center is an amazing place, with the nicest staff and volunteers. The huge TV screens are a wonderful way of educating and raising awareness of the captive held wild carnivore crisis in the USA and abroad.
The schools should make an annual mandatory field trip in order to teach children that these beautiful rescued furry residents DO NOT make good pets.
Since last year I became a Founder of The Refuge, which is a heaven on earth for the rescued creatures where they can enjoy pristine landscapes and many natural amenities. I cannot wait to see the first animals set foot in their extra large habitats.
I love spending the day at the Sanctuary; after walking for hours with my binoculars and camera, it’s great to take a break at Lions Den Cafe where they serve delicious food, for everyone even vegans.
The gift shop is usually my last stop as I always find the cutest and rarest little or big gifts. It’s truly my happy place and a very special place in my heart, I love spending the day or sometimes two days at TWAS. The Wild Animal Sanctuary is best and the most progressive Sanctuary in the world!
The Sanctuary is an amazing place for our wild animals struggling in abusive, tattered captive situations to go and live freely and comfortably.
I was fortunate to visit The Wild Animal Sanctuary last September. I was in awe of the incredible habitats that have been created for the animals and the process that takes place when an animal first arrives at the sanctuary. The staff and volunteers are knowledgeable, educational, compassionate, kind, and dedicated. I highly recommend a visit (I plan on going again) or several visits to the sanctuary. It was such a wonderful, inspiring experience, I just cannot say enough about what a wonderful home this is for the rescued wild animals.
The focus of TWAS has and always will be the well being of the rescued animals. It is amazing to see them from above on the overhead walkway and to learn their stories. TWAS promotes education regarding captive wild animals. Their work is possible because of the dedicated, hardworking volunteers who are attracted by their mission. It's an honor to support TWAS.
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The Wild Animal Sanctuary is an amazing refuge for wild animals who have been mistreated as entertainment and/or "pets". For 39 years, Pat Craig has been a champion for the animals and has remained true to the Mission of educating the public to the reality and rescue captive exotic and endangered large carnivores that have been abused and creating a space that is dedicated to these animals and to education - not entertainment. Sometimes TWAS management has had to make "unpopular" decisions to ensure the well being of the animals. He and the TWAS team work tirelessly creating specialized environments, feeding, vetting and recuing these deserving beings. It is my pleasure to donate to TWAS whenever my finances permit.
I have been a donor for several years and volunteered. The animal sanctuary has always lived up to its mission of rescuing and taking care of the animals
The Wild Animal Sanctuary is an amazing sanctuary for all types of carnivores that have been kept in small cages, basements, garages, their whole lives. It takes a lot of caring humans to help rescue these beautiful animals, and they flourish after they come to TWAS. With all the right food, love, and attention they receive from their new caregivers (staff, volunteers and donors) they have a new lease on life. They now have wide open spaces where they can run and swim and be the animals like they've never been able to before.
These are the lucky ones.....there are still so many captive bred animals that are waiting to be rescued from the hell they are in now. We are trying to educate the public that it is not ok to keep a baby bear cub, or a lion or tiger cub.......these are not and never will be pets.
I have been volunteering for 11 years now. This IS the best carnivore sanctuary in the world.
The Wild Animal Sanctuary is a rescue and sanctuary like no other! They set the standard for what should be expected for captive wildlife, rescued from horrible conditions. Their raised walkway lets people see large carnivores living in large acreage habitats without being interfered with by human presence. This is how it should be for any captive wild animal, period. It's well worth the drive (and the cost) no matter where you come from. They provide lots of educational resources and the animal's care and well-being is always first and foremost. Volunteering there is also an incredible experience, a lot of work, but you get to learn more about the animal residents there, and it is so fulfilling after a long day on the walkway or in the nutrition center. It's a win-win. Everyone should donate or volunteer because this is a cause that deserves it. It is our duty to be caretakers of animals on this planet, the least we could do at this point is donate and give our time and efforts to a foundation that really puts animals first.
This is my favorite place to visit. The vision that Pat Craig originally had, and the fortitude
to create this sanctuary, is beyond amazing. I have been a supporter for many years and have traveled to Colorado from California many times to witness this incredible refuge for these magnificent, mistreated animals.
The Wild Animal Sanctuary does amazing work providing a wonderful home for abused wild animals. The care and refuge they provide is so admirable.
I I am always amazed at their experience, their tenacity, and their love. We should look to them as the barometer of all that we should do for our animals in for each other
What a beautiful place. It is a glorious safari off a major highway where these animals are gifted their freedom and love and the ultimate life. To see them sprawled out relaxing and popping out of hibernation and playing in water is just a delight. One of my favorite places in Colorado!
A great organization doing great work for neglected and abused wild animals, including a wide variety of bears and large cats. My family have been to TWAS a number of times over the past 10 years and thoroughly enjoy seeing the magnificent animals getting a second chance in their expansive 10+ acre habitats. We are honored to be sponsoring one the bears residing at the facility.
This is my favorite place to visit in Colorado. The animals have huge large acreage enclosures. They get great hands off care.
The care provided to the animal residents of the Wild Animal Sanctuary and the Wild Animal Refuge is second to none. Many of the animals living at the sanctuary arrive as a result of private owner confiscation. Anybody who thinks it's a good idea to "keep" an exotic animal as a pet, is surely lacking in empathy. These animals are not meant to be captive, living in cramped often squalid quarters... environments entirely inappropriate for their species . For those lucky enough to be rescued by the sanctuary, their holistic approach to animal care goes a long way to making amends for the harm done to them by other humans. Not only do these animals get top-notch veterinary care and high quality, abundant food, but they get enrichment, and carefully match companions of their own species. I cannot recommend this sanctuary highly enough. I would give it 100 stars if I could.
The Wild Animal Sanctuary is the most amazing place to see and support! I'm so grateful this organization exists for the animals in need of rescuing. Not only do they get a second chance at life, but they get to do it on a beautifully vast property where they have room to roam in privacy.
As an avid animal lover I'm so excited to share experiences with my three year old daughter at The Wild Animal Sanctuary, where she will be educated on the importance of responsible conservation and treatment of animals. We will never support the zoo so I feel very lucky to have this Sanctuary in my home state where we are able to visit throughout the year.
I have followed The Wild Animal Sanctuary for years. I am thankful that this place exists to take care of so many animals that have been removed from abusive situations, shut down zoos and roadside attractions and private owners. Many of the animals that come to TWAS have never known what proper care and nutrition were. They thrive here and you can see them really come into their own once they feel safe. Most recently, animals from the well known Tiger King have found a new, safe and stable home at TWAS. Dillan, a bear that was living in a small enclosure at a so-called sportsman's club/gun range was obese from a horrible diet and suffered PTSD from the constant gun fire. He is losing weight, has a new friend and is safe and happy. Many, many other success stories here! TWAS truly is a gem, and I encourage you to donate to this wonderful Sanctuary and to visit as well!
I have been supporting the charity for many years now. I am based in Toronto Canada and went to Colorado just to visit the sanctuary ... my trip was worth it! Not only did I have the chance to see the beautiful animals rescued, I met wonderful volunteers absolutely passionate about their mission. It has been a fantastic experience and I am planning another trip to see the improvements that were made. Thank you so much to Pat and the team for their dedication to change the lives of these beautiful animals who deserve their freedom.
Visiting the Wild Animal Sanctuary was my first "social outing" since the pandemic hit. It was the perfect place to visit. The Wild Animal Sanctuary is an absolutely remarkable feat of love and unceasing dedication to the welfare of animals who have been rescued from the most unbelievably horrific and years-long conditions of torture, inhumanity, and gravely misguided "ownership." Pat Craig is an incredible example of how much of a difference one human being can make to the lives of so many animals who are so desperately in need around the entire globe. The Wild Animal Sanctuary stretches out as far as the eye can see, with an emanation of peace and longed-for respite from every one of its magnificent animals who are now at last living in the safe, very well cared for, natural habitat that every creature deserves. Please support this most outstanding and hard-working nonprofit, and ensure its legacy lives on far into the future.
Thank goodness for this sanctuary. I wish I could donate much more. I am so looking forward to teaching about and taking my grandkids. I no longer go to zoos. These animals are treated as they should be...
The Wild Animal Sanctuary is one of the most amazing organizations out there.
The Wild Animal Sanctuary couldn't be more different than a zoo. They rescue animals from the worst of situations and give them a place to live for the remainder of their lives. They have literally thousands of acres for these beautiful animals. I will continue to be a supporter.
The TWAS mission is so uplifting for animals that otherwise are without hope, and are living, many times, in horrific conditions.
Pat Craig and the TWAS team are the embodiment of what it means to be good stewards of these beautiful creatures.
I have supported them since my first visit, and encourage others to consider doing the same.
My husband and I have been monthly donors for years. TWAS has always been upfront, transparent and forthcoming with how they spend their money and care for the beautiful creatures in their care. We consider it a privilege and honor to donate and have even included them in our wills.
We are fortunate enough to live in Colorado, and close to The Wild Animal Sanctuary. We also are members and adopters of their animals. Thru their newsletters (extremely well written!) we always find out how their care and concern for animals around the world, leads to more and more rescues. Thank God for these selfless people, who are saving neglected, abused animals, one by one. The new "homes" and care they provide for these animals are beyond imagining. God Bless them, and may they continue to do their special work.
They perform miracles for abused and neglected animals. They give the animals the next best thing to freedom (maybe better in some cases )
Stunning facility with happy, healthy animals❤️❤️ My mom has adopted several animals and I’m a monthly contributor. We take the whole family there as often as we can
This place is amazing!! What they do for these suffering, abused and neglected animals is the most compassionate thing. They truly change the life for them. I have only visited the sanctuary a few times because I live out of state, but when I do make it back to Colorado it is on my list of places to go. If I lived there, I would definitely be a volunteer. I recommend this place for anyone who loves animals.
Walking above these animals was really a life changing experience. It is a glimpse into what should be for these beautiful animals.
We had the privilege of visiting in the summer of 2019 on a trip to see one of our adult children in Colorado. I have been to many sanctuaries in my life and I absolutely fell in love with this one. The care given to these rescued survivors is obvious. The fact that they now have a place to live out the rest of their lives in peace and comfort is a blessing. I hope to return soon and often. Thank you to all who have made this haven possible!
Enjoyed the walk along the elevated walkways to see the lions, tigers and bears. Also saw the camels, wolves and foxes. Nice program to read and follow along during the walk, fun to learn about each animal that was rescued. Even their names are in the program and where they came from.
They do an amazing job rehabbing animals that have been neglected and abused. I can’t wait for the opportunity to visit and show my children how animals should be treated.
Such an amazing place! We stumbled upon it on the way to Denver. They do such an awesome job with their animals. I loved walking on the walkway, you can definitely tell that the animals were relaxed and not agitated like the would be at a zoo. They recently started a project of purchasing a huge number of acres in an undisclosed location in Colorado which should provide the animals the best chance to live a life like they would in the wild. I've been following their mission for 6 years now and I am so happy to see how they progress and how many animals they save.
I was dreaming about visiting the Wild Animal Sanctuary all the way through the lock down as we try to go every summer. When things opened, we ventured out. I was so pleased to see the measures the staff had taken to ensure guests could safely enjoy the sanctuary. This is the only place I've ever heard a lion actually roar and I think that's because they're happy and comfortable. Thank you, WAS for all you do!
What an amazing place!! I can’t even explain how amazing it is to see all these Animals free from the torture. My heart smiles when I think about how happy those animals are!!! Thank you you are HEROS ❤️❤️❤️❤️
My wife and I have supported the Wild Animal Sanctuary since early in its existence. We shared a love of big cats and other wild carnivores and have been grateful for their efforts to help these animals live a life worth living. They aren't a zoo, but the public still has an opportunity to see a large variety of animals enjoying an, essentially, unfettered life.
With the opening of the Wild Animal Refuge in southern Colorado, the Wild Animal Sanctuary has added almost 10000 acres of territory for large carnivores that is as natural as humanly possible. I am a huge fan of their hard work and the joy they share with all.
It is breath taking to see these animals living happy lives in nature and knowing that while you visit you aren’t causing them distress on top of the elevated walkway. All of the staff and volunteers work incredibly hard to care for these animals and it shows.
I have been a supporter of the TWAS for years. The love and care they give their animals is top notch. They are the only sanctuary I know that cares about the animals enough to built a massive walkway. Max was one of my favorites. I saw him after he came in and I got to see him as a huge fluffy Kodiak he should be. He lived the rest of his life out on there care. That is why I support TWAS. I hope you will to.
Visiting The Wild Animal Sanctuary is always a treat for our family. It’s wonderful to see all the animals living in their large acreage habitats. My grandson’s favorite it the Tiger Roundhouse. He likes to see the tigers that are making friends and preparing to form a group to go live in their own large acreage habitat.
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The Wild Animal Sanctuary is a place of peace and love for captive born exotic animals. They get to live out their lives with dignity and respect in large acreage habitats after spending years of being neglected, abandoned and abused. The Wild Animal Sanctuary saves lives. I am honored to be able to participate in such a worthy cause.
The Wild Animal Sanctuary is one of my favorite ways to spend a day. I love seeing all the animals in a natural habitat and happy. I used to go to the zoo a lot but cannot bring myself to set foot there after seeing the difference in the anxious animals there vs the relaxed animals at the sanctuary. I love that so many animals have been rescued and are given the opportunity to have a chance to be well cared for and enjoy life! Can't say enough good things about The Wild Animal Sanctuary.
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The Wild Animal Sanctuary is such a wonderful nonprofit! They rescue captive wildlife from bad situations. These are mostly Apex predators that have been neglected in various situations and since they have always been in captivity can't be released to the Wild. They are brought to this wonderful facility, nursed back to health and given large habitats to roam free. There are water features for them to play in, massive underground dens for them to retreat to and lots of room to stretch their legs. The public is allowed to visit for a reasonable fee + donation and walk along a 3 mile round trip skyway walk. This is built probably 30' in the air above the habitats so that the animals don't feel threatened or disturbed. It is such a wonderful organization and fabulous place to visit.
The Wild Animal Sanctuary is, by far, the most amazing sanctuary I've seen. The lengths they go to for the animals they rescue and care for - absolutely amazing! The habitats are gorgeous and thoughtful, the food preparation is outstanding, and veterinary care is fantastic. These people care so much and it really is reflected in the obvious contentedness of all living there. I absolutely love this place!
My Wife and I fell in love with TWAS when we visited a few years ago. Was on a Train Rides vacation in CO. Saw info on TWAS in a local publication. Went for a days visit. I’ve loved trains all my life but that visit to TWAS was the best vacation I ever had. Wild animals in their natural habitats are wonderful. Even better than train rides. Now a regular donor from New Jersey.
Wonderful, inspirational, caring sanctuary. I have been donating for years. Follow the stories of the various animals that have been saved and you can't help but want to help. Go visit the sanctuary and feel lucky you've been a minor character in their story. And their piece de resistance, is the huge, new sanctuary in southern Colorado where the critters are left to their own and can just be critters.
I have been donating to The Wild Animal Sanctuary since I first learned about this organization in 2014. The Sanctuary in Keenesburg and The Refuge in Southern Colorado are the greatest places on earth for animals rescued from the Captive Wildlife Crisis. My favorite thing about this organization is that instead of small enclosures, the animals have large acreage habitats to roam and have awesome water features to swim and play in. I also love that the animals are able to live with others of their own kind in family units. Each animal has his/her own rehabilitation plan and is carefully introduced to others and the new environment. In addition to giving every single one of its rescued animals a happily ever after life, TWAS also treats its donors/supporters very kindly. Every single time I have donated, no matter how large or small the donation, I have been sent a thank you note. I am honored to be a part of the great work this organization does. TWAS also educates countless numbers of people about the captive wildlife crisis, the suffering it causes and what people from all walks of life can do to help bring about an end to this abuse. I cannot say enough great things about this amazing organization. They transform the saddest animals on earth into the happiest animals on earth!
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I am a major animal lover who is in the early stages of establishing a sanctuary for homeless dogs, and I was studying sanctuaries a handful of years ago to get ideas when I came across The Wild Animal Sanctuary and I was amazed at the quality of life these animals receive. I absolutely love their large-acreage habitat model and watching videos of how wide open spaces, amazing enrichment, and the company of others of their own kind heals these animals physically, mentally and emotionally. This place is heaven on earth for innocent animals who have been rescued from terrible situations. The Wild Animal Sanctuary does a great job educating the public about the captive wildlife crisis and the magnitude and severity of the problem. They also give the animals world class veterinary care and will do anything and everything in their power to give every animal they take in the very best life possible. I wrote the founder, Pat Craig, a letter and he was kind enough to take the time to write back to me and wish me the best in my rescue work. It made my day! I cannot say enough great things about this sanctuary. They bring out the best in humanity.
I have been donating to the Wild Animal Sanctuary since about 2002 and volunteered there for years until we moved away in 2016. I know - seen and witnessed - first hand, that sheer dedication and drive and integrity that Pat Craig is and brings to all he does at and for the Sanctuary. He is dedicated to saving as many captive animals as he possibly can while assuring that the ones he saves have the quality of care and of life that is the hallmark of the Sanctuary and makes it the global leader in (captive) wild animal care. I have seen the transformations that the rescued animals undergo through the care and efforts of Pat and his team (staff and volunteers). I have watched over the years as he has given all of his time and effort to the Sanctuary, to the animals in his care, to helping other rescues and sanctuaries in need, and to ending the captive wildlife crisis. I have been around other rescues and captive wildlife sanctuaries a few times and none of them are like this. Just amazing.
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I always felt sad when I visited a zoo, but never when I have been at the Sanctuary (and I have been often over the past 12 or so years). I no longer go to zoos. The difference between the animals at the Sanctuary and those in zoos is marked - the animals at the Sanctuary are so calm and playful and at ease, despite the fact that most have been rescued from terrible situations. Seeing the difference between an animal when first rescued and six months later is a profound experience - there is so much healing that happens at the Sanctuary. I have learned so much about wild animals, their behavior and their needs, as well as about the Captive Wildlife Crisis from the Wild Animal Sanctuary. I am so grateful to the Sanctuary for the work it does. I am a long time donor and volunteer.
I've been a supporter of this Sanctuary for years and what they have done and accomplished (and continue to do) over those years is beyond words. It is heart wrenching to consider what humans do to these magnificent animals...unbearable....imagine being a beautiful black bear confined in a small concrete cage on the side of the road in the blazing hot sun with no shade and little or no water while passers by gawk at and taunt you for their amusement....or think of being a majestic lion being kept as a pet in someone's garage and fed Whiska's cat food....or being a regal tiger and having your claws pulled out with pliers because they were sharp and dangerous. These are but a small sample of the types of cruelties that we humans have inflicted on these majestic animals with whom we share the planet. What right do we have? NONE! Just imagine. Forty years ago that's exactly what Pat Craig did and he set out to do something about it. The Wild Animal Sanctuary is a life saving oasis for the animals who are fortunate enough to end up there to live out their lives....as close to wild as possible. But oh the battles that have to be fought to rescue these animals....it's unforgivable what's done to animals for profit and entertainment. Mankind should be ashamed. There is a special place in Heaven for Pat Craig, his staff and all the Volunteers of this amazing place....and a special place on Earth for these amazing animals. That place is The Wild Animal Sanctuary. Far, far exceeds expectations!
I love the Wild Animal Sanctuary and believe in their work. I am a founding member and am so grateful for the work they do for animals. They rescue wild animals who have suffered at the hands of humans and give them a chance to live a happier life, a life closer to the one they should have had in the wild. I continue to support them with a monthly donation because I believe in the value of the work they do.
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I visited TWAS in June, 2020. I was impressed with the different fenced areas for the animals. Each area has things for the animals to climb on or play with, even places for the animals to swim. The overhead walkway allows you to see the animals and they don't realize you are watching them. All the volunteers are very knowledgeable and offer information about the animals and their care.
The most amazing place in the world. Everything they do for the animals is done with love, and those poor creatures deserve it. I give regularly, and in the years when it is held, run the Run Into the Wild. My favorite race, because in no other race do bears, and tigers, and lions run beside you! - separated by a big fence of course. ;)
I can honestly say that The Wild Animal Sanctuary is one of the most profoundly impactful places I have ever visited in my life. The stories of the animals rescued by this organization and the clear, meaningful impact this place and all the people who run it have made on their lives is truly the best of humanity on display. They take animals from situations where they are suffering, or unable to be properly cared for, or neglected and give them a life that is closest to the natural lives they should have had whilst ensuring they have the food, shelter and medical care they need to live out their days in comfort and happiness. They take into account these beautiful animals history as well as their natural behaviors to make sure they have exactly what they need. Every time I think about this place I wish they were able to care for all the animals languishing in people's basements or in roadside zoos. They share the heartbreaking stories of their inhabitants so everyone can understand that their priority will always be the animals in their care, and while they appreciate visitors and need the support of the community to survive, they focus on the comfort and happiness of these animals above all else. The animals in their care often have had little in the way of kindness or consideration and to see them get to live out their days here makes my heart full.
Such an amazing place! They care so deeply for the animals, and every staff member and volunteer is helpful and knowledgeable. The animals look so at peace there, and it's evident that they are very well taken care of!
I read up on this nonprofit all the time. I've visited once as well and it was an amazing experience. The work they do is invaluable. That they are able to continue to take care of the many animals that need their help and even continue to expand their holdings is commendable.
The Wild Animal Sanctuary has tackled the horrible practice of keeping wild and exotic animals as pets in the US as well as saving captive and exploited animals around the world. I am ever proud to be a part of this organization.
Just seeing them saving the big cats and the odd emu or so is great for me to see from australia back in the sticks. Keep up your good work TWAS.
I truly love The Wild Animal Sanctuary and the care they take with all of their animals. It is one of my favorite places to visit!
I’ve supported this non-profit for years. They do amazing work and are good shepherds of the animals under their care. I really enjoy how their facility is set up to benefit the animals, not the people. Their rescue and rehab work is amazing and the success stories they share show how good a shepherd they are of their charges.
I have been a monthly donor for many years and just upped my contribution amount for the third time. This organization is on the top of my list of all charities. The value of their work is priceless!
I haven’t been there yet.. but I follow them on Facebook, Instagram, & in their own website. Proud isn’t I’m even enough to say how I feel about the work they do and continue to do on a daily basis. One of the BEST nonprofits I know of!
I love the genuine care they give to previously abused and neglected animals. They get proper medical care, large habitats and social opportunities with other animals. My donations always go to good use!
It's my favorite place on earth!!! The work they do is so important and meaningful! Abused animals that were once so distraught find peace and solace. It's amazing and needs to keep expanding!
The Wild Animal Sanctuary is the absolute best life these often illegally captive and abused animals can hope for. Large open habitats, groups of their own species, great food and health care and people who love and respect them.
I love the Wild Animal Sanctuary! The animals live in a natural setting and are taken care of like they should be. If they can't be in the wild, then this is the next best place for them to be.
This charity is amazing. They're always upfront with what they're doing with your donations, exactly what they're doing for the animals, and they bend over backwards to help these animals all over the world. They were also super accommodating with placement of a memorial plaque for my father, ahead of schedule, when we had to move our visiting time forward. I'll never forget them doing that for my family.
I absolutely love the Sanctuary! No matter what time I go there are always some animal's to see. With the walkways above the animal's I get great pictures. Love that they give these poor animals the best possible life they can have after the trauma they have had to go through!
They do a magnificent job of giving an abused animal the life they deserve. It lifts my spirits to know someone is doing this work so well.
we have been supporting the sanctuary for a number of years and also were able to be come a founder for the refuge. Its so important to try to donate consistently since the animals always need care, every day. The sanctuary works hard to keep their environment as natural/wild as they and the walkway was a brilliant idea to let people see and enjoy them without being in their face. Please support the sanctuary and refuge, they are so deserving for their service to these animals who cannot be returned to the wild.
The unstinting care and freedom that this sanctuary affords animals is incredible. This is not a zoo and people are not allowed to disrupt the lives of the animals, instead there is a raised walkway where visitors can observe them in a huge natural habitat. Most of the residents here have lived horrible lives of neglect and abuse in cement and metal cages with no veterinary care and inadequate diets. This sanctuary provides excellent medical care, personalized diets, natural environments and socialization.
The Wild Animal Sanctuary is the world’s largest and to this day shows concern and compassion towards each and every animal rescued. The staff and team of volunteers are dedicated and provide helpful information to visitors and much-needed care to the animals.
I travel over 1000 miles to visit TWAS and it always proves to be On the top of my list of memorable and enjoyable trips. Their complex in Keenesburg, Colorado is extremely well-maintained, well-run and provides an excellent educational source for any age.
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No place in the world like it! I spend days there admiring the rescued animals at peace in their enormous enclosures. They have had horrifying lives before being saved by The Wild Animal Sanctuary. Pat Craig has devoted his entire life to rescuing, medically treating and providing a home for (mostly) large carnivores. They are free to live the rest their lives in peace, while being fed proper diets and provided with shelter from any harsh environment.
The Wild Animal Sanctuary is such a wonderful place for bears,lions,tigers and more!! Animals that have been tortured,mistreated and lived in horrible condition get to live in a place that is almost like being free! And they are provided with all the food and medical care they could need. The way they get to live and get treated almost makes up for the horrible things they have endured at the hands of bad people. And it is a privilege to get to visit both of the locations!!
This organization is dedicated to rescuing and caring for large carnivores and other animals that were suffering in illegal or abusive situations. Their work is critical toward solving the captive wildlife crisis, and stopping the suffering and neglect that takes place around the world.
TWAS is an amazing rescue facility that puts the animals needs and care above all else. They strive to educate the public about captive wildlife and the crisis in today’s world. The enclosures and commitment to allowing animals to roam in a natural environment as possible is impressive. Proud to support this non- profit.
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The Wild Animal Sanctuary is such a necessity in the Rescue of captive wildlife around the world. TWAS is dedicated to rescue, education, providing excellent nutrition and health care for all their animals. All animals are placed in large animal enclosures some putting their feet in the grass for the first time.
With an amazingly skilled executive team this non-profit has definitely made sure that the Sanctuary is financially stable and their goals for property, wildlife care are sustainable for future generations.
A treasure for people who love animals and a miracle for animals who have been greviously treated by people. It isn't a zoo. It is a sanctuary. If you visit you can see some of the animals in a manner that isn't threatening or harmful to them. They live in large areas in family groups and you observe them from a mile and a half long overhead walkway. I suggest you bring binoculars. The promotions, admission fees, and events exist solely for the purpose of preserving the sanctuary to assure continued support for these animals and to continue the rescues that the sanctuary conducts.I support them monthly and encourage others who care about these animals to do so.
I have supported The Wild Animal Sanctuary for at least a decade and am very careful with where I donate/spend my money. This continues to be beyond a world class operation with 100% of efforts directed toward the animals well being.
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This organization, under the leadership of Pat Craig, is an absolute life saver for so many rescued exotic animals raised in people's backyards, in roadside zoos, from zoos in countries that are giving up on their zoos that would have no place else to go, it is mindboggling. And they keep on saving and making room for more rescued animals especially with their new rescue site in south eastern Colorado. They deserve every bit of praise they get. Yea! Wild Animal Sanctuary!!
This is an amazing organization. In addition to caring for animals in an way that gives them the best life possible they also try to educate the public so the need for the rescue might someday hopefully not be required.
I have been going to TWAS for years, since there was just a few hundred feet of walkway and the vast bear enclosure was too far away to see properly. From day one it was obvious the huge amount love and respect the animals are treated with and the heartbreak that everyone at the sanctuary feels for the wretched conditions the animals are rescued from.
Over the years as the sanctuary has grown and the walkway became longer and longer I continue to visit and each time it is new and different.
More and more rescues are being helped and cared for and can finally live a life of peace in safety. If only this was true for all animals.
This is MY safe place, my place of refuge. The love shown to the animals encompasses me and I, too, feel loved.
If you are going to visit (which you should) know that there is little shade so on a hot day it is very hot - take a hat, sunscreen and plenty of water. In the cooler months, if the wind is blowing (which it does most of the time) it can be quite cold - take layers.
Bring binoculars to get a close-up look at the animals.
Bring an open heart.
They are doing amazing work to free animals in horrible living conditions. Hopefully one day, because of their tireless work, the world will ban wild animal sales, roadside zoos and circuses with animals.
I have supported the sanctuary with a monthly donation for the last four years. The work they do is irreplaceable. In the world of nonprofits you can find other similar charities to support on a particular cause but this group is unique. They travel the world to rescue animals and they have managed to get them wide open spaces to be free and wild once more. These people work extremely hard and deserve financial support. When visitors compromised the animals they took the daring move to raise prices and limit visitors. This says to me they understand their priority is the health and safety of the animals in their charge.
Never in my wildest imagination would I think I would hear lions chuffing and roaring or a pack of wolves howling on the plains in eastern Colorado!! The Wild Animal Sanctuary provides an amazing life for all kinds of abused or surrendered animals with their large acre habitats, healthy food and veterinary care. The elevated walkway gives the public a chance to view the animals without causing stress for the animals. It is an amazing place to visit and their educational programs regarding privately owned and captive animals is outstanding. I gave 5 stars because The Wild Animal Sanctuary is all about the animals and their wellbeing. The animals and their care comes first, period.
We love visiting the sanctuary. It’s wonderful to see these beautiful animals in large open areas where they can roam and socialize.
This sanctuary is on my bucket list to go and see someday. Meanwhile, since big cats are a love of mine, I donate to them when I can, buy calendars and read the newsletters they put out. I love seen the photos and stories that come across my FB feed daily. It is my favorite thing to see and read. I love how they teach us while sharing the stories of the animals they have saved and given a new life too. Thank you for being there to help these wild animals have a life they deserve.
Only place we visited after 3 months of the pandemic. The staff is helpful, the sanctuary is so important. I have adopted a tiger and support this amazing nonprofit for their mission to help the animals and provide a safe place for humans to connect with them.
Thus is a great organization that does wonderful work for animals that have been abused. The Sanctuary and the Reserve are first class operations. And, best of all is you can tell the animals are appreciative.
great at providing education about why keeping exotic cats as pets is inadvisable or just plain impossible, & the great harm illegitimate breeders are doing, fighting for the animals right to a life of care and dignity
My parents were planning a trip to visit me in Colorado and had the Wild Animal Sanctuary on their list of things they must see. Tell you what I’m so glad it was on their list. This place was amazing. They had their binoculars packed and ready to go. We had such a wonderful day talking to the volunteers about the history and all of the animals. We will be returning year after year. Absolutely loved it!! Thank you for what you do there!! The animals are so happy.
What an incredible place! The animals are so well taken care of with acres and acres to roam. The elevated walkway provides a safe place for visitors to view the animals in as natural a habitat as possible. The mission of the Sanctuary is such a noble one. I highly recommend visiting and donating.
The Wild Animal Sanctuary is a tremendously beneficial organization. I have set up a monthly automatic donation to help ensure the wonderful work to rescue, rehabilitate, and provide a safe sanctuary for these BEAUTIFUL animals! I am blessed to support their mission.
We went to the Sanctuary on a whim while we were on vacation. What an amazing place. The animals all look so healthy and the volunteers are great. We spoke to several and you sense their passion for what they do. The stories they told us about where some of the individual animals came from were heartbreaking. I’ve recommended several people I know to visit. Well worth it. I know I’ll be back some day.
They are truly selfless and dedicated to the betterment of these animals who have suffered. My money is well spent with them.
The new life that TWAS gives animals is truly amazing. To see them in their own environment, completely at ease and confident in themselves, brings tears to my eyes. I contribute to TWAS every other week through my employer and I’m proud to support such a wonderful cause. Just think of what the world would be like if people treated each other with the same respect as TWAS treats the animals.
Always made me sad to see animals that were being used to make a dollar! Thank God for Pat Craig and his most awesome crew who save these beautiful animals from terrible circumstances. If you get a chance go visit the Sanctuary. So warming to see them roaming free
I love them! They are a fun and welcoming place for people of all ages to visit and learn about responsible habitat for wild animals. They selflessly rescued animals from all over the nation and you can see how happy the animals are in their spacious habitats there.
I have been going to TWAS for about 18 years-what a fabulous and heartwarming place. The stories of the animals’ rescues will bring you to tears and though heart wrenching, it will also bring you to donate. This is one of the best causes on Earth.They now have added a new refuge in Southwestern Colorado so even more animals have a chance at a life they never knew. Consider visiting and giving. Their quarterly newsletter both online and by mail is superb.
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Visiting this sanctuary will change you and change a life!! Seeing these amazing creatures of the world and what suffering they endured and now have been rescued and live a life of freedom will move you to support this mission. Please take the time to visit and support this incredible sanctuary. Their founder Pat Craig has given his life to this cause along with many other supporters and volunteers.
My first visit to Colorado included a spur of the moment trip to Keenesburg to explore The Wild Animal Sanctuary. It was an amazing start to an incredible trip. The elevated walk is a novel approach to appreciating animals that are kept as close to wild as possible, without giving patrons the ability to interfere or otherwise upset their natural behaviors. Obviously, the animals know when and where food is delivered, but apart from that, they are little concerned with the humans around them.
The sanctuary’s focus on education and rehabilitation is top notch.
We loved this sanctuary so much, we decided to become part of the Founders project by sponsoring an acre of land in the new refuge.
Here’s to hoping that some day exotic animal ownership and roadside zoos will truly be things of the past
I have been volunteering at The Wild Animal Sanctuary since October and it has been one of the most amazing and rewarding experiences! I have a full time job and am pretty busy managing a High end very busy professional grooming salon but I wish I could spend so much more time at the sanctuary it is literally one of my happy places! Everything that they do and stand for is how I believe others should use the sanctuary as an example on how to care for these amazing majestic animals. I can’t say enough amazing things about the sanctuary just encourage people to come out and see it for themselves!
This is the most amazing place...since finding it a couple years back we have visited multiple times and donated to their new facility in SE Colorado. The animals here are living out their lives in such peace, it warms the soul. The Wild Animal Sanctuary experts (both behavioral and medical) care so deeply about their animals, its beautiful to watch their compassion. We look forward to their newsletters and try to share their mission with all our friends and family by bringing them to the Keenesburg site to see for themselves!
Where do I start???
Wild Animal Sanctuary is incredible. The life they give these animals is nothing short of amazing. I had to stop reading the back stories because so many of them are so horrific.
They put the animals first in every way. By having the walk way above the enclosures there is no opportunity for visitors to harass them, like in zoos. They have a whole system of slowly introducing animals into their new life.
Seeing formerly caged animals roaming free, running around, swimming, climbing, sleeping in the grass makes my heart so happy.
THANK YOU WAS for ALL you do for these animals!
TWAS is the world’s largest wild animal sanctuary on the planet. It is run entirely on monetary donations from individual people. No tax dollars here!
The people who work and volunteer at TWAS do it for the love of the animals and that’s all, because the animals deserve the glory and respect for what they endured before coming to TWAS.
I highly recommend TWAS as a place to donate and visit when ever possible. Help stop the captive wildlife crisis by supporting this most wonderful nonprofit.
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Pat Craig and all the wonderful folks at The Wild Animal Sanctuary do a fabulous job. My heartfelt thanks go to them everyday for all that they do to take such good care of the many animals they provide for.
We in the community need to do all we can to support this tremendous effort either by volunteer work or financial support.
Thank you for the experience, the knowledge and the wonderful events you sponsor. I personally brag about what you do every time I get the chance.
The Wild Animal Sanctuary is the most amazing place! Is wonderful to see (previously in poor conditions & captivity), wild animals enjoying their lives with a lot of space to live out the rest of their lives, and being well taken care of! This is my family's favorite place to visit! Can't recommend them enough!!
I’ve been there physically twice and both times have enjoyed the serenity of seeing animals enjoy their surroundings and hearing the stories of their rescue. During the pandemic which unfortunately left them closed to many visitors they have kept fighting for their animals. I am proud to have supported this sanctuary many times and hope that we are able to keep backing them in their fight against animals cruelty.
Heaven on Earth for the animals that have been given a new chance at life. Advocates and educators for the captive wildlife crisis
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It's been a couple years since we visited the sanctuary but I've never forgotten what an incredible experience it was. The sheer enormity of taking care of all the different species that have been rescued still boggles the mind.
Everyone who can really should visit - bring your children because it's a valuable educational experience for them. Not only to see the animals but to learn what impact we all have on the world around us and perhaps they will grow up with a better understanding of their place in Nature and how to be better stewards of same.
The Wild Animal Sanctuary is well organized. They are setup to run efficiently and effectively. Everywhere you go is clean. It’s obvious they care for the animals as much as they care for their patrons. The offer an amazingly-unique adventure into the lives of wild animals.
Oldest and biggest nonprofit helping to rescue captive bread animals. They are doing amazing things and helping change the world.
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Oh my gosh, if I could give this place all the stars and money I would. I love animals and have been involved with many nonprofits but I have never been as amazed. Pat and Monica are just on another level of commitment and transparency. The Wild Animal Sanctuary is unapologetically animals first! They have my full heart and support. If you have not visited yet, you must make the trip out there today!
I have never seen so many passionate and dedicated volunteers and workers as I see at the Wild Animal Sanctuary. The facility is clean, the animals are well fed and cared for. They have as much room as they want or need. Any donations go to a very good cause.
Hello, my name is Deirdre and an Animal Advocate, mostly for the Wolf. My visits to WAS have always been enjoyable, especially when I bring my 2 grandsons. The variety of wild animals is amazing. For some, this could be their first time seeing such animals which most of the time are in zoos with bars. That's what is special about WAS --- there are no bars, just land for these wild creatures to roam and live in peace. I did volunteer, briefly, at WAS, standing on the Walkway near the Wolves in case anyone had a question. And I am thinking about volunteering again once I retire.
My husband Jim Riddle (flight engineer on Samaritan's Purse DC-8) and I took three of our youngest grandchildren and our daughter with us to visit the Wild Animal Sanctuary on April 19th to meet Lambert the lion and Tasha Joy the tiger who were airlifted off the island of Saipan in December 2018 several weeks after a Typhoon devastated the zoo. Pat had given Jim his card and an invitation to come down and see the cats when we could, so we certainly DID. Jim saw the conditions Lambert and Tasha Joy were living in on Saipan and was there for the whole transport to Denver which was quite amazing what you all did. Everyone was awesome, Kent was our tour guide and did a fantastic job, we were treated very well and we love your top class care of these animals to see that they live out their remaining lives living happy and healthy. We thank you all for your hospitality. God Bless You, Jim & Sharon Riddle daughter Kellie, G-kids Jesse, Brett & Breanne
An amazing sanctuary that puts the animals needs above human needs and wants. THAT is the right way to run a sanctuary!
BEST Nonprofit Sanctuary on Earth! I volunteered, then worked at The Wild Animal Sanctuary for 11 years, and have given and helped other nonprofits all my life. So I know a winner when I see one! The great cats, bears, wolves and other assorted critters who are saved and cared for by TWAS are the lucky ones. The Sanctuary not only rescues and provides large acreage habitats for 100's of animals, but also works tirelessly to educate about the Captive Wildlife CRISIS in America and around the world. Please visit their site at www.wildanimalsanctuary.org, and learn how you can be a part of this magnificent calling to make the world a better place to live! Grateful to share the adventure...Toni Scalera
I have volunteered there since 2008 and I love the integrity and devotion that this place has to its residents, the beautiful animals who have been rescued. Great work and thank you for all you do!
In 2013, I saw an ad on the back of my AAA magazine about The Wild Animal Sanctuary. I thought, Oh wow, this is only 30 miles from Denver. My family and I drove to Keenesburg to see the big cats, bears, and other animals out there. Not only did we see magnificent lions, tigers, leopards and bears but we found something else: Joy! We learned how TWAS rescues these beautiful animals from sad situations where their care was inadequate and enclosures pathetically small, and through the miracle of love and a healthy environment, transforms them into the majestic creatures they were meant to be. You can feel their joy! So spread the joy, give to TWAS! Help them continue their rescues. You'll be happy you did.
As a volunteer and supporter I have seen first hand the dedication and hard work that goes into making sure the rescued animals have a safe comfortable place to love. The education to the public is excellent as well.
Having followed TWAS since the Bringing Up Eddie story, Christmas of 2018 I decided to purchase many of my Christmas gifts from their Gift Shop. Since I live in Florida and TWAS is in Colorado, I went to the website to shop. I had a few questions about some of the items, and the 2 Young men I spoke with who work in the Gift Shop were So-o-o-o helpful. They went out of their way to make my "shopping experience" enjoyable.
On another note, as a Biological Technician,, I was interested in the details of the care of the animals. Watching the animals in their TWAS enclosures - their interactions with other animals, there general condition - confirmed to me these lucky animals were content. The innovative overhead walkway for the public is just another way TWAS put the animals first! I actually did some computer research on animal sanctuary care, and what I found was TWAS was way above the standard of care in all categories. The new 9000 + acre Refuge currently under construction is just another way TWAS puts the animals first by providing the animals a habitat as close to their natural habitat as possible. The TWAS focus is always on the Animals entrusted to their care.
The genuine love the staff has for the animals is apparent at the Wild Animal Sanctuary. This is the best place on earth to see love, compassion, and caring in action. Everything is done with the care of the animals as the #1 priority. I wish I could trust other non profits to be so wise with the resources they have.
I have been donating to the Wild Animal Sanctuary for years; they are truly the most ethical, honorable, and important charity I have ever supported. I cannot say enough about the value of the important work that they do.
We came across this Sanctuary in Colorado years ago and instantly knew we would support them in every way we could furrrrrever! What they do for neglected, tortured, mistreated wild animals all over the world must be supported and celebrated.
Now we belong to the Circle of Life group and last year became Founders for their new land, The Refuge. From the Director to staff to volunteers > they all have the same mission to love and help animals, which matches our mission as well.
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We've visited TWAS years ago and have supported them every year since! These are people who have dedicated their lives to rescue wildlife from horrifying conditions world wide and give all of them a dream retirement life!!! We've even been impressed enough to name TWAS in our estate. Please consider putting TWAS on your bucket and donation lists!
What a wonderful place for animals that needed rescuing from horrible situations. At The Wildlife Sanctuary, they are allow to be as free as possible.
I would give The Wild Animal Sanctuary a ten if it was possible. Visiting the Sanctuary is simply a joy. To see so many animals being able to live out there lives in peace and health is indescribable. I visit many times a year, and I am a committed donor. The animals are kept in multi-acre habitats. Most have underground dens at a depth that maintains temperatures that are neither too hot or too cold. My favorite part of the Sanctuary is the 1.5 mile above the animals walkway (3 miles round trip). Unlike zoos, visitors are not face to face with pacing, stressed out animals. The animals are at peace. It warms my heart.
I have a friend,who lives in Colorado,start posting photos on FB,about The Wild Animal Sanctuary. I went to visit my sister in law,who lives in Highlands Ranch,Denver. I told her about TWAS,said that I would love to visit. She said that she had heard of it to and wanted to visit as well. So off we went. We fell in love with the sanctuary. To see the animals,who had been kept in roadside cages,cement pits,for the entertainment of tourists,some never feeling anything but cement under their feet,living the remainder of their lives,in freedom and safety,made me want to be a part of this beautiful sanctuary.....seeing the brown bears lounging in the huge galvanized pools,puts a smile on your face,they never have to beg for food again. They even have a camel and donkeys.
I became a monthly sponsor. My SIL a yearly sponsor. She sponsored a table,at the rescent gala. Pat Craig's passion and mission,to save these animals,is inspiring. He works 7 days a week,has not taken a vacation in over 30 years. That is dedication. The passion of the volenteers keeps this sanctuary running smoothly. They truly love the animals. Every time I visit Colorado,this is one of my destinations.
I am a donor to and lover of this Sanctuary and now Refuge. I visit often, donate regularly and I attended the art sale/auction last fall where I was able to purchase an acre of land at the Refuge and become a founding member. You can't help but be moved by the passion and dedication of the staff and volunteers of this wonderful home for the abused and neglected wildlife that live there. The loving care that is provided there is incredible. I never arrive at the Sanctuary empty handed, bringing items on their wish list with me. I always feel as though they truly appreciate whatever I am able to give. I highly recommend a visit. You will be changed forever!
I am a donor and have volunteered at The Wild Animal Sanctuary (TWAS) for 1.5 years. I have almost 20 years in non-profit executive management experience. TWAS is an extremely careful and judicious steward of donors’ monies. I can say with 100 percent certainty that every decision made at the Sanctuary is made in the best interests of the animals served by the organization. Every staff member and volunteer is incredibly dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, health and happiness of each animal in the organization’s care.
One day at the Wild Animal Sanctuary with Pat Craig and his staff was life changing for me. I had read the story of Eddie the Black Jaguar and made a promise to myself to stop there on my next cross country road trip. Seeing all these incredible creatures in wide open spaces, so content, relaxed and at peace filled my heart with JOY. This sanctuary is a labor of love, and all who visit and those lucky animals that get to live there all feel it.
The best home these abused and neglected animals will ever know. Pat Craig is an amazing, and dedicated champion of these beautiful creatures. I absolutely love the wild animal sanctuary and someday would love to visit the Refuge.
Such an amazing place with amazing dedicated people helping to make sure these wonderful animals are taken care of!
I grew up in Africa and loved seeing wild animals in their natural habitat. This spacious sanctuary provides its inhabitants, who have suffered atrocious living conditions, the chance to live out their lives in a fantastically well-managed environment.
Incredible rescue. Selflessly dedicated to the animals they serve. Great experience on-site. Knowledgeable and friendly staff.
The Wild Animal Sanctuary is one of my favorite animal organizations and one of my favorite places in Colorado! I feel so lucky to be living here now so close to such an amazing and inspiring organization. I believe their mission, the way they conduct their work, and the way they communicate with the public make them a leader in animal non-profits. Their work and vision are exemplary!
Amazing place. Such a happy, inspiring place and affirmation that kindness does exist in our world. Thank you TWAS.
The Wild Animal Sanctuary is an amazing loving place for rescued large carnivores. There is no other place on earth that can compare to this incredible sanctuary.
I admire the hard work, love and dedication to rescuing these animals in distress and providing large habitats for them to live as stress free a life as possible.
This place is extraordinary! Everyone works so hard to care for the animals, all the way up to the founder, Pat Craig! This place is not only heaven on Earth for the animals but for those of us who visit and support it.
They do a wonderful job of taking care of the wild animals, getting them out of bad situations and letting the animals live out the rest of their lives as they were meant to live and not in some small cage at a roadside exhibit. Lots of room to roam, and wonderful care.
Anyone who willingly spends the hours and funds to rescue, house, feed and care for all of these animals earns a special place in heaven and a special place in my heart.
If you have never been here, be prepared to be awed.
Visited with my son who lives in Denver, CO. He brings his friends now. Whenever someone I know visits Denver and asks where to go, I always suggest the Wild Animal Sanctuary. They always come back raving about their experience!
The staff and volunteers care so much about every single animal there and do their best to make sure the rest of their lives is as close to perfect as they can make it. I have been a volunteer there for 9 years and am constantly amazed what a wonderful place it is. The animals always come first; above anything or anyone else. They are never exploited in any way for profit such as photo ops with visitors etc. and no breeding takes place, which would only contribute to the Captive Wildlife Crisis. The large acre habitats give them plenty of room to roam and the elevated walkway makes sure that visitors can be educated without stress to the animals
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I became a volunteer at The Wild Animal Sanctuary in May of 2010 and have been one ever since. The passion and dedication all the staff has for the rescued animals is amazing. Everyone gives so much to make sure those animals feel loved and safe and secure the rest of their lives. The staff gives every animal personal attention and knows their names. personalities, food preferences, everything. I look forward every week to my day out there.
I have donated to the Wild Animal Sanctuary for years. It has been a wonderful thing to see it change, grow and thrive. The founder is the bravest, most bold individual I have ever witnessed serving a need greater than himself. Undaunted by any obstacle, he has pioneered The Wild Animal Refuge, another world class sanctuary for animals. I am proud to be a donor.
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Started going years ago when they had just opened for the public. I was so impressed with Pat, the staff and their mission. My mom had already been and felt the same. I teach at a Buddhist temple so I made the sanctuary my class field trip at the end of each year. We had great discussions about how the animals ended up at the sanctuary and the animals were so fortunate to be able to recover and heal at this wonderful place. We are now part of the circle of life and the sanctuary is in our wills. Can't say enough about the sanctuary. We are so fortunate to live hour away.
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This is such a wonderful place - before even visiting my husband and I adopted a Jaguar (Negrita). Our first visit was fantastic, the customer service is great yet they don't take up too much of their time. The actual cat walk is the perfect distance and all along the way are friendly and knowledgable volunteers to tell you about the animals. They know their names and personalities. You can also read their stories, but they're all very sad. This is a perfect place for anyone who cares for animals because you're money supports the rescued animals and you get to see them so happy!
This organization does an amazing job of placing a top priority on the Sanctuary inhabitants all the way from the smallest to the most magnificent Tigers, bears and lions. A close second in outstanding treatment are the guests who come from all over the world. I absolutely love this place!
There is no other place where animals which have been caged, beaten, under-fed or simply forgotten can be nurtured and cared for and given their lives back. The Wild Animal Sanctuary does that and so much more, including giving the animals their dignity back. Now that is a non-profit that every one should be able to support.
I really appreciate what this site stands for. They are truly concerned with their animals welfare. Constantly dreaming up new ways to enhance the animals' lives with what they call enrichment. Whether it be a simple ball, more natural habitat. They even give each animal a vacation to a new area. Shoot I dont get as many enjoyable vacations to explore as they provide. The website seeks to entertain through showing us their happy animals but always includes informative info. Please , I consider them a top contender, I hope you will too.
I finally got out to the sanctuary this past Sept. I do not go too far, as my health is not that good, but I was determined. My sister gave me Nancy for Christmas 3 yrs ago, and the following year I adopted an African Serval Cat... and now a artic fox. I find the sanctuary a wonderful way to actually see animals that are thriving, I see the staff and volunteers are so very dedicated and caring and it just melts my heart to know they all will live out the rest of their lives, as close as the Lord intended them to live, not in cages and zoos. The quarterly magazine I read from cover to cover and really have learned so much, I can hardly wait till the next quarter comes out. I praise all who have worked so diligently to make this place a better world for animals, who cannot speak for themselves. Pat Craig is one remarkable man.
So inspiring to see how well these animals at the Sanctuary are treated. I think you can see smiles on their faces....at least you see smiles on other visitors faces when we all see how they are now living. The walkway is amazing and the new center was just opening and with so many different souvenirs, they are a great way to remember the visit!
The Wild Animal Sanctuary is amazing. They support the animals in the best way possible with almost all money raised going to the animals. I have 6 adopted animals and I never worry about what my monthly donation is being spent on. When you visit, they truly welcome you and make your visit memorable in every way possible. I love TWAS!!!
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After one visit I saw how the animals were put above everything; their welfare is what TWAS is all about. I have attended many fundraisers for them from movies to walks and I haven't seen one thing that indicates the animals don't come first. I support TWAS by adopting several animals and will continue to do so and find other ways to support them.
Such an amazing Sanctuary for animals! My favorite Colorado place to visit and donate to!
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The work that Pat Craig, his family and staff do here epitomizes the meaning of the word sanctuary for these animals who were unfortunate enough to not be born in the wild. Human beings can be so selfish and inhumane, but thankfully there is a place for those animals who, through no fault of their own, have been subjected to such a cruel life before arriving at this beautiful oasis. The Wild Animal Sanctuary is Heaven on Earth for these beautiful and majestic animals. The Mile Walkway is an incredible addition that allows the human animal to enjoy and marvel in the wonderful world of lions, tigers and bears in their beautiful habitats. TANK YOU PAT CRAIG!!!!!!!!
The Wild Animal Sanctuary is the most amazing place and it is in my "backyard" so to speak! Come and learn about the animals, be sad for what they went through to get here, but be happy for the wonderful home they have now.
This facility truly defines what a great charity is and should be. My wife and I have watched it grow from its modest origins to a splendid. large facility and now they are expanding again to another sight. They have provided great care to animals that critically need the love and care they provide, as well as the freedom to live meaningful and happy lives. This is truly a facility worthy of great support.
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I love animals and especially tigers so when I heard of this place I had to visit. Once I visited I decided I had to help. We can't make large donations but whenever I make a donation my heart feels good.
I have many great memories of visiting the Sanctuary and hopefully many more to come.
I quit going to the circus 30 years ago when I seen a tiger trainer break a broom on a tigers head.
The Sanctuary has made my greatest prayer to be that no animal is abused and no animal is in need of being rescued ever. It also taught me how ignorant humans can be.
The Wild Animal Sanctuary has been part of my life for the past 15 years and I encourage everyone I know to visit and support that wonderful organization. The dedication and love that is given to the rescued animals is amazing and to see big cats on their seemingly 9th life, the bears, and other species come back to be healthy, happy, and vigorous, and enjoying a life so far from what they were accustomed to is truly inspiring. The new refuge in southern Colorado is an awesome addition to the sanctuary and I can't wait to see how the animals react after being re-homed there. TWAS is a truly beautiful place in many ways!
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I have been visiting TWAS for many years. I first visited when it was a very small, compact visitor center with a short bridge overlooking the tiger roundhouse and binoculars looking out on the lions, bears, and wolves. The resident camel (and his constant equine companion) was still living in Boulder and I passed by his field every morning on my way to work. It always brought a smile to my face - a camel in a farm field. Eventually he left and I followed him when he went to Keenesburg to TWAS. The growth of the sanctuary since that time is incredible! The new lion house and the new visitor center, to say nothing of the "mile into the wild" overhead walkway, and the acres upon acres of additional habitat, have made the sanctuary an annual destination for me and my grandchildren, plus many extra visits for just me! Hearing the stories of rescues and seeing the happiness and healthiness of the beautiful animals makes my heart full. I donate frequently to the sanctuary, sponsor a mountain lion, and sing its praises every chance I get. I highly recommend supporting the sanctuary and the amazing work of Pat Craig, his staff, and everyone who volunteers to give these animals a safe and caring place to live!
When I moved to Denver I heard about TWAS and it sounded cool. I saw the movie Lion's Ark. I took my mom there and it was fascinating to see wild animals. I hate zoos. They make me sad so I won't go to them anymore. At TWAS I got to see a grizzly running and stand up. I got to see lions. I saw some brown bears lounging in their pond. They are funny. I love wolves and belong to Defenders of Wildlife. The great thing is they aren't in cages anymore. They can roam around and we can see them from up above without impacting their life. Then I decided to start sending them $10 a month automatic withdrawal. It's not much. It is so easy. I have other animal rights charities I give to. I have gone back to visit since and can't wait to take my nieces and nephews there when they come to visit. I am excited to hear about their new land south of Denver for more abused animals to have a new life.
This nonprofit is totally worthy of my donations & also of yours. The funds we provide go almost exclusively to benefit the animals as the staff is minimal & the volunteer base is large. The Wild Animal Sanctuary is filled with heart & respect...for each other (staff & volunteers alike) and, most importantly, for the animals bred in captivity with no voice. I have seen firsthand the love, dedication and, simply put, very hard work that is freely given to these rescued animals.
This is my all time favorite animal charity!!! They are all about caring for animals who's quality of life would be terrible if not for them! I love the Wild Animal Sanctuary!!!!
Absolutely the most amazing non-profit. You can't imagine what it takes to rescue, take care of, and feed these magnificent animals. And to give them a safe and loving home in a large acreage habitat for the rest of their lives??? Well, I needn't say more.
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I cannot say enough about this organization. I have supported The Wild Animal Sanctuary for several years now and will never stop. The work they do is unparalleled and needs to be done on a global scale. The lives they change through their work are countless and we are so fortunate to have WAS in Colorado. If there is ANY organization to support, it's this one. Changing the lives of large animals who have been neglected, abused or simply ignored is the remarkable work they do. Adopt an animal, donate and go visit. You will change lives.
An organization that leverages volunteers in an extraordinarily well manner. By doing so they mark the best possible use of financial donations - food, veterinary care, and specialized paid staff. Great learning experience for visitors of all ages. Great to see large animals with plenty of space to roam
TWAS is truly an amazing place for the beautiful wild animals that find their way there, whether due to abuse, neglect or inappropriate situations; they are given a safe place to live in dignity and peace, and learn to trust humans rather than fear them. Those of us fortunate enough to visit the sanctuary can only gaze in awe at what has been achieved there! I feel very lucky to hear the stories of the residents, see them relaxed and enjoying their surroundings and also see what can be accomplished by people who are wholly committed to saving lives and allowing these animals to live as freely as possible, what a wonderful place.
This is not just any place, this place is special, as soon as you talk to a volunteer at TWAS, they can tell you stories of the animals, instantly you feel the love and compassion for these abused animals, but so happy they are at this sanctuary, that provides open spaces, quality food and vet care. Pat Craig and everyone that is involved at TWAS is passionate and "on mission", and "an advocate" for these animals. I watch the stories and rescues play on a big screen tv, sometimes it's painful to know the animal's story before being rescued, but these determined people of TWAS focus and get the job done, no matter how long it takes, and once they are at the Wild Animal Sanctuary, they have at last made it to heaven on earth! It's a beautiful thing, when the best efforts are carried out in the best interest of each of these creatures. I've never seen such a large operation run like this before. All of their work and efforts are for the animals. They take extra measures to make sure of the comfort and well-being of the animals, I appreciate this. Love this place! TWAS is a model for passion and compassion. What place gets volunteers from far far away to give of their time and energy for free? People love to be a part of something that is right and good, and we love TWAS!
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The Wild Animal Sanctuary's heart has always been about the welfare of the animals. The open space of natural habitat with caves underground for hibernation. The right food and excellent Vet care are provided lovingly. The rules are stated before someone visits to ensure safety and well-being of these beautiful wild carnivores. The high walkways are to not disturb or scare the animals. I know TWAS would love to keep these gorgeous animals in the wild, but because there are zoos, circuses and individuals who abuse and neglect them, this is their passion, to do the best they can to save all the wild animals from sometimes near death situations, and bring them to a better life at The Wild Animal Sanctuary! Love this place, I sponsor Eva, she was a baby bear when she came to TWAS, love to watch her splash and play in the water with her friend Marly. Anyone who visits will see the quality care and happy animals roaming free, and the volunteers are happy and eager to answer questions and tell you stories of how the animals came to TWAS. An incredible and educational experience for your kids too!
I truly believe The Wild Animal Sanctuary is the best nonprofit in the United States and maybe the world. The work it does to rescue animals is unprecedented. On top of that, the animals get a new home in which they can behave as in the wild, yet they are so well cared for with diet, nutrition and vet care! Our entire family loves visiting.
I am so impressed with what The Wild Animal Sanctuary does for captive wildlife!! Thank you for taking such great care of these animals!!
I visited TWAS for the first time in April of 2018. I was immediately overwhelmed by the work they were doing to save these wild animals. As a rescue volunteer myself for a labrador retriever rescue group, I was impressed with the details and dedication this group has for the animals. I immediately became a monthly donor. I wish I lived in Colorado so I could volunteer and give my time to help these beautiful animals. I can't wait to come back this year and attend the dinner.
This was one of the coolest placed I've ever been! I'm so thankful that the sanctuary exists and is saving/bettering the lives of what are supposed to be wild animals. The volunteers and employees are obviously so passionate about what they do. The walkway is so creative and a non-invasive way to view the animals. Not to mention how safe it is. Loved my time here!!
This is an incredible organization that does even more incredible things for animals. They are good stewards of their donations and are very transparent.
The Wild Animal Sanctuary provides a heavenly new life to captive wild animals existing in hopeless, hellish circumstances. The Sanctuary provides immense expansive free roaming habitats that allow animals to thrive and live out the rest of their lives knowing compassion and contentment.
It is just a beautiful place, so peaceful. The animals are well taken care and allowed to live out their lives in wonderful environment.
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The first time that I went to the sanctuary, I was so impressed. I found out a week or two later there was a chance that it might close. I adopted two animals and I have never been sorry that I did. In the years since the sanctuary has grown quickly but it has not lost sight of their main mission, giving wild animals that had no place else to go, a home. The animals are cared for and not expected to do anything but live out their lives in wonderful surrounding. I can not say enough good things about the sanctuary. I love to go out there just to see the animals and watch as they play, sleep, eat and everything else that an animal should do plus they are in wide open habitates and not cramped cages.
We love visiting the animals at the sanctuary and believe in their important work. They main concern is for the animals that end up in their care. Love them!
Amazing work they do for these animals. These animals have never had a chance to live a normal free life and now they have as close of a chance to that as they can
If you care about animals, this place is amazing. Not a zoo but a sanctuary for animals who have been mistreated by selfish ignorant humans. I love seeing these wonderful animals and know that my visit isn't distressing to them. You see them in natural habitats. Remember, before they were rescued, these animals have been mistreated by humans all their lives. I support TWAS financially. Pat Craig and his team are angels.
I've been a supporter of Pat Craig and his team at The Wild Animal Sanctuary for several years. It is gratifying to be associated with such an organization, dedicated to caring for those who cannot speak for themselves - victims of the growing worldwide Captive Wildlife Crisis - and providing a permanent home for these magnificent animals. I'm looking forward to continuing my association with TWAS as it enters its next phase, establishing the 9,000-acre Wild Animal Refuge in order to serve even more animals.
Each and every time I go to the sanctuary, I am in awe of the amazing job these loving people do for these animals. All of them have a heart of gold.
I live about an hour's drive from TWAS. This sanctuary is the real deal, staffed by the most caring people I've ever met. I go there at least monthly, taking friends and family almost every time, because the mission is paramount, educating people is crucial, and I want folks to see exactly how a rescue organization should be run. The animals are at the top of everyone's priority here, their comfort and care, all geared to their backgrounds, needs and personalities. I willingly and happily give TWAS whatever monies I have extra, whether to give vet care to the animals or help to purchase the land for the Refuge.
This is a place is the most incredible place around Colorado. You can see in the eyes of these rescued animals that they have found a safe place to just be. The dedication of Pat, the employees and that volunteers is incredible. The animals can't live in the wild and many have been abused and had lived in a limited space for many years. They are well taken care of here and have more quality of life than they have ever experienced in their prior lives. There are vets on site. The upper walkways allow the animals to be experienced by people without feeling intruded upon. I simple love this place. They are continually working here to make life better for these beautiful animals. GOD bless them
The Wild Animal Sanctuary is a must-see! The animals here appear to be very well cared for, and each one has its own rescue story that leaves you proud that a nonprofit like this exists. The volunteers are very knowledgeable and helpful and truly care about the animals that live here.
Amazing rescue and caring group. I used to live 20 miles from here and have watched the growth over the years. Animal habitats are perfect for THEM and viewing from above reduces stress. 5 stars for sure
Fantastic charity primarily devoted to large carnivores, saving the lives of animals in need and giving them a great place to live, many of these animals have been severely mistreated.
TWAS continues to grow and increase its ability to take care of some of the world's neglected, abused and injured animals . The good people there continue to follow their motto, every day and never lose sight of their goals. If you haven't taken the opportunity to visit this facility, whether you be a visitor or a local, this is the one to see, enjoy and learn from. Mother's Day is coming, why not plan a trip then?
The Wild Animal Sanctuary is the most wonderful place in the world! The animals are not only well cared for, they are truly loved. This is the best and most honest non-profit organization to support.
So many memories of this amazing place and it's creator. It's a learning environment, not a zoo. Many groups have been welcomed here. School groups, handicapped individuals and so many more. God bless those individuals who literally give their lives to helping these animals.
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wonderful, outstanding, caring people make this place a reality, from their fabulous director to the volunteers and donors that just don't quit giving. The only $ important here is the one to take care of the animals and give them the best life possible. Every visit has been a joy. I have visted many times and watched the facility grow. I am in constant amazement.
Christina Roskop
Our family loves visiting the Wild Animal Sanctuary! This organization is continuously working on improvements to fulfill and enrich the lives of the rescued animals in their care. Walking high above the animals, you can observe their worry-free life as they nap in the daytime or walk around and play with their enrichment objects. Highly recommend anyone visiting Colorado to stop by and support them.
Thank you for all you do!
The Wild Animal Sanctuary provides excellent care for wild animals who would otherwise continue to suffer in horrendous captive conditions. We began supporting TWAS as soon as we became aware of the valuable service they provide. We have two adopted animals that we come from Georgia to visit every year and continue to be impressed by the number and variety of animals rescued, as well as the beautiful habitats TWAS continues to build and provide.
Our family discovered this sanctuary several years ago and were so impressed by the way the rescued animals were treated, that we have been donors ever since! In fact we have become founding members of the new Refuge in southern Colorado!
We have been supporters of this agency since 2004. In terms of animal care they understand what makes for the well being of the animals in the Sanctuary and the personnel are deeply committed to the best appropriate care possible. In terms of their educational mission on the captive wildlife crisis they take every opportunity to share with individuals and groups with whom they have contact. They have also leveraged both traditional and social media to extend their outreach. In terms of management their commitment to financial transparency and accountability is well documented and ongoing.
We have visited and donated to TWAS for over 20 years, and hopefully will continue to for many more. We are glad to do our part in supporting a place that is devoted to improving the lives of animals that had been exploited for much of their lives.
TWAS main goal is to rescue wild animals, but they also do so much to educate the public on the plights of these captive animals, and the reasons they need to be rescued. Many come to the sanctuary in very poor health, and the medical staff at TWAS provides expert care to bring them back to health.
It is a wonderful place!
The Wild Animal Sanctuary is a safe haven to numerous exotic animals including those that were surrendered and those that were mistreated and living in inhumane conditions. I love visiting TWAS and seeing all the beautiful animals thriving with so much room to roam. Thank you TWAS!!! I will be a forever donor to this great organization!!!
The Wild Animal Sanctuary, Pay Craig and his entire team work tirelessly to ensure quality care for all the animals in their care. The treat their supporters with the greatest respect, while using the monies, and in kind donations wisely.
Words will not do this place justice. You have heard that a million times but it is true. I spent over half a day at the sanctuary and had the pleasure of being there about an hour prior to close. After learning more than I could have imagined from each volunteer I met along the way, find Sally - she is WONDERFUL - I was walking the boardwalk back to the main building and wolves began to howl, lions roared... it felt surreal. You hear these things on tv but not quite the same as experiencing in real life. This was just one highlight.
Learning about individual animals, how they came to the sanctuary and all of the efforts that are being taken to keep it 'wild' there - inspiring. Inspiring is an understatement.
The website is beautiful and an accurate depiction of the sanctuary but the real beauty is seeing animals run, lay, soak up sunshine - on theie time, how they choose.
This place is worth a visit. Worth your donations. They are doing wonderful things. It IS about the animals here.
The Wild Animal Sanctuary is incredible, they undo unimaginable horrors that have been done to innocent, majestic animals. Their work is critical, their dedication like no other. The environments they create for the animals are beautiful and natural, the animals are healthy, happy,and loved. The facilities are educational and amazing.
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The Wild Animal Sanctuary is an outstanding organization. They are very clear in their mission to not only rescue animals in dire need but to educate the public. This is a dedicated group - always professional and compassionate. I'll continue to support their work both financially and through participation in their community events.
This facility just continues to be a great success and does very important work for exotic animals in need!
Most amazing place and the owner is outstanding. I grew up in boulder with the owner and watched him start this from the start
I have been taking my family to the wild animal sanctuary for 5 years and will continue to go for years to come. Not only is it fun, it's also incredibly educational. The animals there look so happy and content, so different from how they look in zoos. The work the sanctuary does is necessary and life saving for these animals. My daughters and I love going there and are thrilled about the new location. This is such a good thing for the animals. Jackie Medley
I love what they are doing here, saving the lives of wild animals, giving them the space they deserve! Keep up the good work!
I had the pleasure of visiting the sanctuary and it was the first time I have seen a tiger in person and was able to smile. All of the animals have a lot of space and they all were behaving as would be expected in the wild. Their needs are clearly put first as they should be. All facilities that have wild animals should mirror the wild animal sanctuary. It teaches respect for other creatures and you get to see them as they should be.
Great organization! Their goals are for the animals, always. It's inspiring to read about their rescues. But they are not just concerned about rescues but also spreading the word on wild animal captivity crisis. Keep up the great work!!!!
TWAS always puts the needs of the rescued animals above everything else. I always know my donations go to the animals.
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I have had the privilege of volunteering with TWAS for almost 5 years now. I do say privilege as I get as much from the animals each time I volunteer as I hopefully provide to TWAS visitors. Prior to volunteering here and continuing I support them financially as this sanctuary makes such a difference in the lives of so many beautiful animals. There is nothing to compare to the afternoon symphony of lion roar's, wolf howls, and tiger chuffs to make a person feel very small in this world. Every time I am at the Sanctuary I learn something new and increase my respect for this incredible place.
What work could be more important than saving lives? The Wild Animal Sanctuary is true to its mission in every way, saving wild animals from abusive captive situations, and returning them to wide-open spaces where they can be themselves and fulfill their nature. The people who work with and for The Wild Animal Sanctuary believe so much in its mission, they know every rescued animal by name and unique personality. This Sanctuary is a slice of paradise on Earth for the animals that never before knew the true feeling of freedom. Now, they do.
I am awed by The Wild Animal Sanctuary's diligent attention to their mission statement. They are doing wonderful things and go above and beyond to educate the community, advocate for so many precious animals and provide a safe and spacious environment for wild animals to enjoy their lives.
Amazing place! Beautiful sanctuary full of animals rescued from horrible situations.
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Our organization, which serves special needs adults, has experienced discrimination and unfair treatment at TWSA. We spent over $2000 last year on memberships, food, posters and a donation to the new land project. We routinely bring 10-12 people out to the keensburg facility. They enjoy watching the animals and learning their stories and seeing them live a new freedom.
We were asked bythe executive director not to bring 2 individuals who could not walk out on the bridge because they were not " learning about animals in captivity" There are no signs listed that limit time in the main building nor is this part of the membership agreement. He also stated that the Wild dogs in the atrium might bite them.
These individuals are part of our Community and were supervised at all times. They were not bothering anyone but The ED determined in his fine judgement that the entire group will no longer be able to attend. This is a discriminatory and ignorant decision.
It will be a long time before we give money to another animal rescue.
Review from Guidestar
My husband and I have been financial sponsors for many years and have the honor of being volunteers now. It's wonderful and amazing how well these animals are taken care of. The visitors that I have spoken with always have praising things to say about the sanctuary.
The Wild Animal Sanctuary rescues large animals from abusive situations. Bears, lions, mountain lions, tigers, jaguars, leopards, wolves, fox, emus, ostrich, even horses are now living in ease after tragic beginnings. Large enclosures allow them to stretch their legs whenever they want. Although it would be better to live in the wild, many of these animals were stripped of their natural defenses during early captivity. The Sanctuary gives the bears and tigers water to play in and the cats structures to climb. Approximately 500 animals call the Sanctuary home. You can see them from an elevated walkway that runs about 1 1/2 miles.
I have been blessed to be able to visit the sanctuary a few times and am always left with pure amazement of the love and compassion these people put into creating a wild, Free and safe place for these beautiful animals. Truly an inspiring place
Greatest Sanctuary in the World!! The animals that they rescue have the best care, love and habitat available. They truly do always put the animals first!!
This is such an amazing non-profit to visit. I cannot believe the sad stories of their animals & how they have suffered too much. The Wild Animal Sanctuary goes to such effort to rescue, build new habitats & care for these unfortunate animals. I have friends coming to Denver & this is where I plan to take them. What this organization has done is noteworthy.
I have been here 3 times during visits to our daughter and son-in-law. I am always amazed and grateful for everything they do for the animals. I will visit again. This is a unique concept that considers the animals first, when it comes to visitors observing them from above. Thank you to all who make the animals comfortable and safe.
I'm not sure I have the words to explain how much I love TWAS. It is my sanctuary, my therapy, my favorite place on the planet for the past 20 years. My family and I spend as much time there as possible. Whatever you do put a visit to the sanctuary on the "to do" list.
Visiting The Wild Animal Sanctuary was on my bucket list and last year I had the chance to go. It did not disappoint. The care the volunteers take of the animals was absolutely amazing. Their habitats are top notch. It was the best experience of my life to see those animals enjoying life after the rough start they had. I will donate to The Wild Animal Sanctuary for the rest of my life because I am certain my money is going directly to benefit the lives of the rescued animals.
A guest of ours at our Pet friendly Bed and Breakfast who has become a wonderful friend, brought TWAS to my attention. She was receiving newsletters from the Sanctuary, so I checked it out and being so impressed with the work being done, decided to become a sponsor. Having two Grandchildren and myself we Adopted Cans and Dian two young male cubs and a beautiful wolf named Cheyenne. In 2014 with our Granddaughter whilst visiting Daughter in Vegas we made the journey to see first hand. After receiving newsletters and adoption updates nothing prepared me for the amazing place TWAS is.
To see the lives these rescued animals now live is soul storing, totally overwhelmed with gratitude to Pat Greig and his dedicated band of animal carers. God bless each and every one of you. Thankyou.
We found TWAS, I think in 2004. It was an itty bitty ad in the newspaper. Thought it would be a good way to spend a Saturday afternoon so off we went. At that time you took a dirt road to get there, so we weren’t sure what we would find. We checked in and were given a notebook with history off the animals. Remember it was much smaller then, I think about 70 animals in total. It was beautiful and relaxing. You could just sit and watch and listen to these glorious big cats. Right after we were there they were on the news saying they were going to have to close because lack of funds. One way you can donate is to adopt an animal and that’s what we did. Our first were Halloween a tiger and Lightening a leopard. They have since died but we have been able to continue helping by getting new ones. We get out there about twice a year and have introduced many people to this Sanctuary where the animals are as free and happy to roam in their large enclosures.
There is something so special bout TWAS. What they do for these beautiful animals is wonderful. It only took one visit for me to understand what amazing work everyone does. My husband and I both adopted an animal I will continue to support TWAS as long as I can. If I still lived in Colorado I would be a volunteer. Thank you Pat and crew for the TWAS we need more people like you. (Mary B. In Minnesota)
As a supporter and former volunteer of The Wild Animal Sanctuary, I can firmly state that this is the BEST nonprofit I have ever had the fortune to discover.
Volunteer options are realistic and doable and the work is hard - sometimes tedious, boring and straight-up disgusting - but the staff does a great job of making sure volunteers know WHY they are doing what they're doing and how it benefits the organization and the animals. Work is varied enough that in between the manual labor there are opportunities to interact with the animals in a safe and educational manner, whether it is accompanying staff to feed, deliver medication, or work on habitats to improve enrichment and stimulation for the animals.
As a visiting member of the general public, TWAS offers an absolutely one-of-a-kind experience in which guests are able to see rescued animals, learn who the animals are (where they came from and how they wound up at TWAS) and learn about what is referred to as the "captive wildlife crisis." One of TWAS's main goals is to educate the public about the dangers and immorality of owning exotic species as "pets," along with providing information about the plight of captive traveling animals in circuses, side-shows, and photo-with-wildlife scams. While traditional zoos also offer educational opportunities, they tend to focus on the idealized version of a species' life in the wild. At TWAS, however, the educational focus (while providing this same basic biogeographical information) is shifted towards the specific ways in which certain species are exploited and abused for the sake of "entertainment." While you might learn where tigers cubs live in the world at a zoo, at TWAS, you will learn that "selfie-with-tiger-cub" opportunities are a scam to generate profit at the expense of the individual animal and entire species' well-being. Thus education at TWAS goes far beyond the typical zoo placards and provides guests with relevant and crucial information regarding the various ways in which wild animals are exploited and how to prevent complicity in these schemes in addition to ways in which they can take action to save wild species and advocate for their welfare.
The last aspect of TWAS I must mention is the physical structure and pure awesomeness of the facility. Over 720 acres in the eastern plains have been slightly modified (added streams and ponds, some vegetation, underground dens built, etc.) and there is a 40ft elevated walkway that traverses a mile and a half of these habitats. This provides guests an utterly unique experience of walking on a footbridge above the animals in their habitats below. Based on evolutionary biology of carnivores (who are highly territorial on the ground but have never had any airborne/flying predators or prey and thus are oblivious to the sky and space above them) the elevated footbridge is a groundbreaking way to provide guests with an incredible view of the animals in as close a proxy as possible to their natural habitat. Each habitat is large (most are at least twenty acres) providing the animals with ample "territory" to roam and patrol. The elevation of the walkway means that, unlike at a zoo where carnivores are confronted with people invading their territory and staring at them through a glass wall (which results in unnatural pacing along the wall, indicating unease and stress on behalf of the animal) the animal is oblivious to and thus totally unbothered by the human observers above them. The end result is that guests are able to observe the animal acting as close to "natural" as possible and the animals are not stressed by invaders encroaching on their territory.
TWAS is an absolutely amazing place for the reasons above and many more. Words cannot describe the magic and serenity that are palpable as soon as you step foot on the walkway. The peace and gratefulness of the animals can be felt by all who work and visit them. Staff, volunteers, and visitors of all ages will leave feeling more hopeful about the world and the future of its imperiled wild species. And there is no other sight in the world as breathtaking to behold as the sun setting behind the Rocky Mountains in the distance behind the herds of lions roaring to each other across their adoptive Colorado plains homes.
(All photos - TWAS)
Wild Animal Sanctuary does everything possible to rescue and provide the best possible environment for the animals. Donations go directly to benefit the animals and communication from W.A.S. is excellent. They deserve more than 5 stars.
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This place is amazing to see all the wild animals not caged. Staff are very helpful and knowledgeable.
I have been involved in animal rescue, animal rights, etc most of my adult life. I am 53. I do not believe there is a better organization than TWAS. It has got to be the most effectively run group I have ever seen!! They truly believe and implement EVERY word of their mission statement!! You can also see where every donated dollar is spent!! They are nothing short of amazing and the world and animals are truly blessed having them here!! I so wish I lived in Colorado so I could volunteer there!! What an honor it would be!!!
My husband and I heard about TWAS about 6 years ago and thought it would be fun to check it out. We were blown away by all the hard working staff and care of the animals. The rescue stories are heartbreaking. I’m so glad the animals will live out the rest of their days with the best care. This is an organization that should always be supported. We love TWAS as the animals come first above all else.
I can’t imagine a more well run, truer to the mission statement organization than TWAS. The entire staff and volunteer team never loses focus upon what is BEST for the animals. I am proud to be a donor, and honored to volunteer!
This place is amazing! While in Denver on a business trip, my friend and I decided to visit in a whim, thinking it would be a nice way to see some animals and spend our time. When we got there, we were blown away by what we saw. I have never in my life seen a place so well designed and thought out, with the emphasis on the animals instead of the people. I was completely captivated. We even were so fortunate as to be able to hear the wolves howling. Such an amazing, unforgettable experience! That trip was 4 years ago, and I haven't stopped talking about it. I wish I lived closer so I could volunteer there.
TWAS exemplifies everything good for Animals. The caring staff and volunteers work tirelessly to make sure that these Animals have an amazing home, and care for the rest of their lives. Every detail is thought of and usually well in advance. Nothing is spared when it comes to the wellbeing, safety, comfort, care, & health of all the residents of TWAS. It’s truly something magical; and it wouldn’t exist without the amazing support of the donors. There’s no place like it in the world. ✨
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This is an amazing and upstanding organization that upholds the highest standard in Animal Care and Education to the public. The staff and volunteers are a passionate and hardworking group who are dedicated to making life Amaizing for the Animals they rescue.
These Animals have all been born and raised in captivity and have been rescued from abusive and un-lawful situations. The Sanctuary doesn't breed the Animals and provides a life long home to all the rescued Animals.
It's a beautiful facility and truly a wonderful non-profit that is more than worthy of your support.
If I could give TWAS ten or more stars, I'd do it. I visited them for the first time a few months ago. Seeing animals in cages has always made me very sad. Knowing that there are people who think it is OK to have a tiger in their mansion, just because they have the money to pay for it, has made me deeply upset since I knew this happened.
I think I smiled the whole time I was at TWAS. There were moments when I was about to cry when I saw how relaxed, happy, and free animals look. They are healthy too.
I cannot wait to go back. This May, my son is graduating from high school. My family is coming to the ceremony. They will visit us from Canada and Mexico for only three days. One of those days we'll visit TWAS because I have shown them so many videos, and talked to them so much about it, they want to be there as well.
Keep up the good work. You are leaving this world better than you found it. Many animal and human lives are happier because of TWAS.
I learned about TWAS from my sister, who lives in Aurora, CO. From the first visit we were in love. This sanctuary is truly the best place on earth. The rescued, magnificent animals are treated with love and respect and the staff is totally dedicated to their physical health, well being and emotional health. You could not find a better place to donate your hard earned money.
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I will never forget my first visit there over 9 years ago, it was the most amazing experience I think I have ever had and one that was also very emotional. Reading the rescue stories and the horrific conditions the animals were forced to live in were heartbreaking. How could any human be so cruel? How could any animal recover from the abuse? I could only read a few stories at a time. I would visit at least once a week and read more stories and just cry for the animals and what they went through. But then you see the animals and how they are living now! What an amazing transformation for so many lives! They are happy, healthy and living in peace. Hopefully their pain and suffering and all they endured have been erased from their memories. The Sanctuary and everyone involved are truly the most caring people I have ever met. The animals come first for everyone and that sentiment comes from the top down! If you have never been you need to go, and trust me, you will wonder why you have not been. And for me, I visited a long time ago and have never left! It will make your heart full to see how wonderful the animals live! This is an experience nobody can explain, you have to see it first hand. Truly an amazing place! I encourage everyone to go and to also support the animals! You will feel good about helping! They need our voice!
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This place is the best place! The most amazing animals now have a good home, free of fear, abuse and starvation! It is very difficult to read the stories of where these animals came from, it brings you to tears. Knowing what they lived like prior to going to the sanctuary and now to see them roam free in a natural habitat is so very heart warming! They do what they want to do! This is truly about the animals and you can see they are very happy! No longer are these animals going to suffer from the human hand. It is so sad many humans feel these animals were put on this earth to entertain us, or to be our pets, or whatever other sick purpose. It is great to see that finally, these animals can live the rest of their lives in peace, and know that they are ok now.
This is an amazing place to visit. It's wonderful to see the animals in a natural environment. So much better than a zoo.
My heart is one filled with empathy and sincerely hurts for the hurt and abused. Because I was one of them. This beautiful peaceful place always brings my heart so much joy. To see the pictures of all of these innocent pure hearts enjoying life, is everything. Thank you for all that you do for the animals, and for me.
I found out about this place at earth day event in Dallas Texas. I had the opportunity to visit a couple years later. It is Almost indescribable how wonder this place. How you can be immersed with animals without disturbing them, it was incredible, has to be experienced. Then there is how wonderful a place it is for the animals, that they are able to live out their life’s in a place that resembles as much as it can there intended habitate, with no worries. Can not say enough about how dedicated they are to their cause and how grateful I am.
I learned about the Wild Animal Sanctuary when they received three Uruguayan lions who’d spent a lifetime in dreadful conditions. They worked very closely with a local rescue, Animales Sin Hogar, and passed their incredible knowhow so that the lions would make a safe journey and transition. Through and through, the Wild Animal Sanctuary have been generous, and gave not only a wonderful home to our lions, but our and the lions dignity back.
We visited the Wild Animal Sanctuary while in Denver visiting our son. I wish we lived closer so I could volunteer here. I truly can’t put into words how impressed we were with this place. It is very apparent they care greatly for the animals there and want to do their best for them. If you haven’t been here yet to visit you should plan to. You won’t regret it and it may even change your life!!
This is a beautiful facility for these animals to live out their lives. My first impression was how well they’re feed and how content they all were. The mile boardwalk is spectacular for viewing and fun. I am a future valunteer and looking forward to that day.
I had a wonderful opportunity to visit "The Wild Animal Sanctuary" just outside of Denver Colorado. All the beauties here were born in captivity, beaten with whips and baseball bats, many defanged and declawed. They DO NOT breed any of the creatures. Thanks to an amazing passionate team this 700 acre sanctuary was created for these creatures to live in peace. The people who rescue these animals from around the World often put their life in great danger. When the beauties arrive they are placed alone in small enclosures as some have never seen another animal before. Prior to rescue they often lived in stacked crates or peoples basements or concrete cells. All have an opportunity to eventually go into big enclosures at the sanctuary. There is a special senior citizen area where some beauties need a lot more quiet and special attention. There is a 3 mile suspension bridge where you can observe these beauties - apparently standing on the ground near their enclosure is very scary and feels threatening to the creature. I would recommend this trip to everyone - it fills my heart with joy to know these creatures will live their days with people who dearly love and care for them.
Great place that truly cares about the welfare of their rescued animals. The raised walkways allow for good viewing without the stress and taunting that happens in places like zoos. And they continue to rescue animals in dire situations and allow them to live the remainder of their lives in peace and with companionship. Love Pat and all the team at the Wild Animal Santuary! Angels on earth!
The Wild Animal Sanctuary is my favorite animal non profit. I have supported them for years and upon visiting several years ago, discovered the incredible way they rescue and care for captive wild animals. The facility is wonderful with acres of land sectioned off and dedicated to various types of animals, with enclosures, ponds, and heated underground places for winter. The animals looked relaxed and healthy. The sanctuary takes care to keep people at a distance so the animals are not disturbed. The medical care is top notch. And they go out of their way to rescue animals in need, driving long distances, and flying out of the country, hurrying to save a life. I think this place is heaven on earth for abused wild animals and I will support them until I die!
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I have supported the Wild Animal Sanctuary for many years. They do amazing things for animals trapped in horrific lives. I had the wonderful opportunity to visit the sanctuary in 2015 and I was simply overwhelmed by the animals roaming free, and the people who work and volunteer there. Their dedication is unbelievable. I will always support the Sanctuary until my last breath!
I am in love with The Wild Animal Sanctuary! This happens to be our favorite charity and the director/founder Pat Craig is truly an amazing person with a heart of gold. He is so articulate in the way he communicates the extent of his passion and goals to to his supporters. The large majority of animals they’ve taken in have had tragic, abusive backgrounds. I’ve found myself tearing up several times as their stories are shared through quarterly newsletters and videos. It’s so heart warming to know that these rescued animals have been given the opportunity to live out the rest of their lives stress free, with dignity and with others of their own kind. We will continue to support TWAS for as long as we are able!!
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This is our second year donating to TWAS and we plan to continue for many years to come. We've been so impressed that this year we adopted an animal as well. It is an amazing place with habitats and facilities that allow rescued animals to live out the rest of their lives with dignity. What impresses us most about the sanctuary is that it exists for the wellbeing of the animals and not for the entertainment of the public. The volunteers there are very dedicated and do an incredible job educating those who visit. A top notch newsletter is published regularly to inform the donators about the individual stories of each animal. Exceptional people doing exceptional work!
I've been supporting the Wild Animal Sanctuary in Keensburg since 2001. Their good work never disappoints. They do everything they can to rescue animals and give them lives they deserve. They put the animals 1st not profit-hence the walkway for humans to observe but not disturb these majestic creatures.
I love to visit the wild animal sanctuary! To see what this place does for these animals with your own eyes is truly awe inspiring. It will fill your heart with such love and respect not just for the animals but for the people who tirelessly work here to help the animals lucky enough to be rescued.
This is a magical place to visit. Every creature should be cared for the way they care for their animals. Support them!
This place blew my mind. The habitats for the animals are large with toys, shade and sometimes water features. It was incredible to see bears playing with each other, lions roaring, and tigers napping in the sun. The captive wildlife crisis is a huge problem in this country. The Wild Animal Sanctuary is doing a marvelous job of caring for the animals who've been through unspeakable trauma.
The elevated walkways were an amazing way to see the animals without disturbing them. I'm in awe of the care they provide for these spectacular creatures.
The work done at this facility is superb! Animals all look happy & healthy & have fantastic open habitats.
I visit at least once a month & am always impressed.
It has been my honor and privilege to support The Wildanimal Sanctuary. I have been a supporter for over 10 years and the staff and volunteers that love and care for these beautiful animals can not be equaled. Pat Craig and his entire family have devoted their lives to rescuing and rehabilitating Lions, Tigers, Bears, Wolves and a large variety of other carnivores that have suffered horrendous abuse and neglect from the Captive wildlife trade.
They have provided a home for animals that spent their lives at the mercy of unimaginable torture and allow them to live the rest of their lives as close to being in the wild as possible. I strongly recommend visiting and supporting TWAS.
The first time I visited, I was moved to tears to see how these magnificent free-living animals are given a second chance after suffering all kinds of abuse at the hands of humans. There simply aren't words to describe this wonderful place!
I can't say enough about The Wild Animal Sanctuary. It is the most amazing forever home for abused and neglected carnivores. I "adopted" Buddy, the mountain lion, last year. I have visited twice from California so far, and although I have yet to see Buddy, I am not disappointed because I know he is now free to choose how he spends his days. It is so rewarding to see how the animals' lives have changed after arriving at the Sanctuary. The elevated walkway is such a great way to be able to observe the animals without intruding on them. I am so proud to be a donor for this non-profit. The Wild Animal Sanctuary exemplifies everything good that a non-profit should be.
Such a moving and powerful experience to see these majestic creatures at last free, cared for and respected. What TWAS does is beyond exceptional. It a profound honor to support this noble cause and advance the humane treatment of all of life on Earth.
The heart breaking and heart healing that lives within each and every animal here is incredible. The strength of spirit that it must take to do this work is so inspiring. Being an animal lover makes this an important place for me to donate to. I love this place!
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The people that work and volunteer for this organization have saving and caring for animals running through their veins. Every detail is tended to for the care of every animal and every habitat. WAS is a class A organization from top to bottom. I have been there many times and am always impressed. I am honored to donate monthly to do my small part to help this wonderful organization. It is always the first place we take visitors and they too are always impressed.
Being a volunteer I get to see some of the inner workings and I can honestly say that everything the sanctuary does is for the animals, no one else. Not for the public, staff or publicity. The animals come first and in my opinion that is the way it should be at any decent sanctuary. Seeing the animals so happy makes my day whenever I go in to help and it makes me sooooo soooo happy.
We visited yesterday and this place is just amazing! Everybody who we interacted with made a point to speak about the conditions these animals were rescued from and raise awareness. Utilize the knowledge of the volunteers and staff and this is quite a fun, educational experience.
I visited this sanctuary 10 years ago and decided to go back last May. WOW, it has blossomed. This was before the new visitor center opened, but I had so much fun watching all the animals, that I took my Mom back over Christmas who was visiting from Chicago. By this time, the new visitor center was open, so we were able to enjoy some pizza and ice cream after our walk. It was great to go back at Christmas after reading the stories in their newsletter. It was fun to see the animals and progress from what I read. A great place where you can tell that they truly care about the well being of the animals and do all they can to keep them in their wild, natural habitat. I could sit there all day and listen to the lions roar. A must do for anyone who loves animals.
We visited Denver in November for the first time and had already researched the sanctuary, excited to make the drive out there. The reviews were spot on, what an amazing experience and we got great exercise and views. Some of the animals were out of view and the binocular s you can rent really helped. I might add there are some bad reviews circulating about small space for some of the tigers, however this is because they are reacclimating them in hopes to move them with other tigers in bigger enclosures. All the animals were so well taken care of and I recommend this place to anyone! If you have the means, please donate they take any amount extra after admission and they even send you a nice thank you letter in the mail when we got home.
We went to the sanctuary last summer as part of my daughters make-a-wish trip. It was beyond amazing. The staff and tour were a once in a lifetime opportunity. Their knowledge and passion was inspiring. And the animals,each with a story touched our hearts. We hope to return soon ! This place has forever touched my heart ❤
This place is just amazing. They share the stories of all the animals via story boards along the walkway & they are heartbreaking. Thank goodness for the wonderful people who run The Wild Animal Sanctuary & fantastic care provided to all the animals they rescue. I'm so glad a place like this exists to provide a loving & safe environment for all the rescued animals to live out their lives.
I have been fortunate to have twice visited the Wild Life Sanctuary and have been blessed to have the means to contribute to its financial support. A singular memorable experience for me was listening to the wolf packs communicating with each other with that haunting chorus of howling. The WLS not only provides a great venue to view some of nature most remarkable creations in something close to their natural environment, but also performs an invaluable service in rescuing these animals from unhealthy and abusive conditions. The owners and staff of WLS are genuine in their mission to be good stewards of these incredible animals. I would greatly encourage support of their endeavor.
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RMWCC is an outstanding facility. I was especially impressed by the care given to the animals in terms of acclimating them into the environment in a structured fashion. The infrastructure is an excellent means of seeing the animals in a "close to natural" setting. Also enjoyed the stories about how the animals came to the facility.
Visiting The Wild Animal Sanctuary was one of the highlights of my life. These wonderful rescued animals now live out their lives in natural surroundings in social groups of their own kind. Founder and Executive Director Pat Craig is very hands-on and we actually got to talk with him and get our photo with him. What an incredible man providing an incredible retirement for so many formerly abused and/or neglected animals. I highly recommend it!
After visiting this sanctuary I decided to become a volunteer. Today I start my training and the adventure begins. I can't wait to learn more and share my passion about this wonderful place.
Wonderful sanctuary helping animals to live free. Their labor is awesome and so much care for those who has suffer before arrive in there. Is beautiful seeing their posts about how peacefully are wild animals living there
I have never been to the Wild Animal Sanctuary, but I believe so passionately in the work they do, the care they give, the compassion they show, the dedication, respect, and love they give to animals in need, that I am a monthly donor to their superb cause! I believe that being a small part of their family, I am in some small way, trying to give back and make up to the animals what they have suffered at the hands of humans. Any monies you award them will be money much needed and more than well spent. The are a magnificent organization!
This sanctuary is amazing. Friendly and helpful staff. The walk on the walkway was a good excersise and great way to see the animals roaming free in large enclosures. I would definately visit them again to see the animals who were rescued from terrible situations. If you are looking for abused animals doing tricks this is not a place for you. Thank you TWAS for all you do to for the animals.
The Wild Animal Sanctuary is a part of our family. Every year we adopt a rescued animal on Mother's Day, we feel it is such important work they are doing. To see the the animals living free in large open habitats warms the soul. Some having spent much of their lives in cages or on concrete.
The WAS puts all their heart and soul into saving abused animals from around the globe and gives them much needed medical care, love, and room to roam and be the wild animals they were meant to be. Every visit to the sanctuary is like a love explosion in my soul. I will support them till my dying day.
When I took a random trip to Colorado for my birthday month back in September I came across the signs of the sanctuary I heard so much about back in LA. I was soo excited I stopped by the next day and spend half the day there. I was amazed to see lions roaming together, white tigers
My daughter began working at TWAS this past summer. I went to visit and found the place to be amazing! All the workers that band together to make this place run are terrific. The animals seemed thoroughly at home in this environment. The owners truly care about each and every animal that comes under their care. A very worthy non-profit.
This outstanding Sanctuary is a blessing for so many animals both wild and other wise that have been neglected, abused or displaced. Pat Craig and his son Casey have worked tirelessly to provide the best possible care for these animals that have suffered so much throughout their lifetime and were left without favorable options for their existence. Pat, Casey and their devoted staff and volunteers have provided a safe refuge where these animals are given large habitats to roam in, plenty of nutritious food, world-class medical care, underground dens to keep them safe from the elements and most of all lots of love, respect and protection. The Craig family have made a lot of personal sacrifices to make the Wild Animal Sanctuary what it has become today - a world-class facility which is recognized throughout the USA and Internationally. Their mission is to rescue those animals in need and to provide them with a safe and wonderful home for the rest of their lives. This is a non-profit sanctuary that is most deserving of any and all donations that the public can give. No donation is too small and everything goes towards funding ongoing necessary rescues and the upkeep of over 450 animals that call the Sanctuary their home. This is a no-nonsense Sanctuary and it's all about doing what's right for the animals. There is no other Sanctuary in the world like it and it is very deserving of every donation that it most gratefully receives. Please help them with their most honorable and important mission to make a difference in the lives of animals that need a second chance at life.
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This remarkable 720 acre large carnivore sanctuary (along with other needy creatures) is worthy of every single dollar donated to it. Pat Craig and his son Casey along with their dedicated staff and volunteers are the most sincerest and hardest-working of people who really believe in what they do and truly make a difference in giving rescued abused, mistreated and unwanted animals a second chance with their lives. The animals that have been fortunate enough to now call the Sanctuary their home are loved and well-cared for and thrive in a safe and stress-free environment where they can live among their own kind in large acreage habitats. Pat Craig has devoted 36 years of his life to hard work, personal sacrifice and unwavering commitment to make the Sanctuary what it has become today - one of the largest, most highly-respected and unique Sanctuaries in the world. Rescuing animals in dire situations and The Wild Animal Sanctuary IS what Pat's life is all about and he will always put the needs and well-being of the animals first.
I became aware of The Wild Animal Sanctuary soon after moving to Colorado three years ago. It is unlike any place I've ever known. To see animals that have been horribly mistreated and abused living peaceful, contented, and healthy lives is so heartwarming. Those that arrive needing critical medical care get it and thrive. The staff at TWAS truly understand the animals, they are devoted to their wellbeing and they work tirelessly on their behalf. I have adopted 5 animals (one of my lions is shown here) and would do more if I could. I choose my charitable donations carefully - this is one of only three entities to which I donate because I know the money is well spent.
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I have visited the Wild Animal Sanctuary many times and have adopted 5 animals (2 lions, 2 tigers, and 1 wolf) to help support their efforts. To know the tragic circumcirmstances from which these wonderful animals animals have survived and then to see them completely relaxed and enjoying life at the Sanctuary is a joyful experience. They receive such good care by a staff who appreciates their need to be the creatures that they are, but who also who tends to the problems that must be overcome by their past lives. It is truly one place where human kindness is making a difference. And it it one of the few charities to which I donate, because I know my money is being well spent.
When you visit The Wild Animals Sanctuary you will feel a sense of peace that can't readily be explained. It's only after you learn about the history of each animal and the suffering they endured that you begin to tap into the collective happiness of hundreds of wild animals rescued from atrocious conditions, many from here in the USA.
As a long time supporter of this Sanctuary and as a regular visitor, I can tell you that Pat Craig, his family, and their many volunteers have created something close to heaven right here on earth. They have continuously improved the facilities for both the animals and the visitors, who view the rescued animals from a 30 foot elevated walkway, the longest in the world!
It is my honor to highly recommend The Wild Animal Sanctuary as a model facility and as an important torch bearer in the captive wild animal crisis.
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The Wild Animal Sanctuary is an amazing place where formerly abused or neglected animals can live out their lives in peace and happiness. Pat Craig and his family along with hundreds of volunteers have dedicated their lives to these animals and work very hard to keep them healthy and happy. All it takes is one visit and you will see and perceive a very special atmosphere that exudes peace and happiness. I am proud to be an active supporter of the Wild Animal Sanctuary in Keenesburg, CO!
Best place. This is not a zoo and people need to be quiet when there and respect the animals. Visitors are informed about where the animals have come from and the horrofic stories and pasts they have endured. It's very eye opening and heart breaking, but so very, very worth the trip. I highly recommend this place.
Absolutely can't say enough positives about this organization and their mission to both rescue wild animals living in awful conditions and their ability to let these animals live out their lives in as natural conditions as possible. We've been members for two years now, and we consider it to be some of the best money spent! These people have incomparable compassion and desire to come to the aid of large, exotic animals such as lions, tigers, and bears. It is quite frightening to realize how many of these animals are acquired by individuals, road side attractions, etc. and are mistreated, or living in horrible conditions because they started as cuddly small animals that grew up.
An amazing place and they do good for these animals. If you haven't been here yet I highly recommend, I love going and I'm a cat lover so of course the cats are my favorite! We also donate every year.
I saw first hand how transformative the lives of these traumatized animals became. Look with binoculars and you can see the look of tranquility in their eyes.
What a wonderful sanctuary. Comfort and safety of the animals is first and foremost. Having the observatory/walking bridge above the animals is wonderful in that it does not disturb the animals, and allows visitors to observe from a respectable vantage point. The staff is fully educated and shares background information about the sanctuary and the animals the the visitors, so that visitors understand the mission and goal of the sanctuary and the history of the animals located there. The sanctuary has a gift shop; bathrooms; snack bar; and close parking. The founder and the staff are doing wonderful work in their efforts to educate the public about exotic animals and those animals' plight. A beautifully run sanctuary with the best in mind for the animals who take refuge there. Thank you TWAS for all that you do!
I finally got to visit TWAS 2 summers ago. I had been following them for about 10 years. The visit was even more than I had expected!!! Animals were free to roam on grass and dirt and to swim after years of neglect and abuse. Peace was every where....I love this place and I will be back!!!
I learned of TWAS in 2005 and have followed the work they do ever since. The magnitude of what they do for the captive wildlife crisis is amazing. The rescues- saving these large majestic animals from lives of horrifying captivity in dirty, cramped, totally unnatural living conditions to be released into a natural habitat where they can live out a life of freedom- is to be commended. Visit if you can- it is beautiful to see how these animals now live compared to where they came from. Sign up for the newsletters to learn of the mission and rescues. Donate- help them to rescue and save as many of these majestic creatures as possible, and to help spread the word on the crisis so that hopefully one day it will be a distant bad memory.
I live in UK, but visited the USA one year, and read the Denver Post about a Sanctuary that was taking in lions and bears that were nearly dead through neglect. I went along to visit, and was blown away, with the entire place. The creatures all had smiles on their faces, and the volunteers--who were many were passionate about what they were doing. I decided there and then to support them every month--and will continue until I am no longer on this planet.
There are SO many opportunities for school visits, and to let children see how wild life should be homed, and to learn about each one. JUST AN AMAZING PLACE
This sanctuary is amazing. I first became aware of it when I happened upon their video of the Bolivian lion rescue. The passion for the animals well being is obvious. I had the opportunity to visit June 2016 and fell in love with the place. The animals are clearly the first priority. I was lucky enough to see many animals from their skywalk. The staff and volunteers were very knowledgeable and seemed to know every animals' story.
Your mission is not only noble - it is pursued intelligently, professionally, and with the attitude of responsibility, respect, and attention to detail; always with the animal's welfare at the forefront. I pray God will always bless the work you do!
I have been spreading the word about how great this place is for at least 15 years. My niece took me to tour it when it was just a very small place . I fell in love with it and the founder Pat Craig. He is very special man and an incredible vision of what to do to help these guys and education the public as to the dangers involved with uneducated greedy people illegally breeding them throughout America. Several years later with 155 animals he was forced with the decision of having to close it because of lack of funding. Me and several friends got addresses from a data base and started sending to letters to famous people begging for funds. We knew if he had to put these animals down, it would kill Pat too. It worked and he managed to stay open. This man with no formal training for animals is the smartest man I know or will ever know. He has great vision and came up with the raised walk way system and managed to expand. Pat, his son Casey, and many, many volunteers built what is now the longest raised walk way on earth verified by Guinness World records. He has gone from small enclosures to now animals having huge 10-25 ACRE enclosures some complete with raised walk ways for the animals as well as huge swimming pools. It has grown to 720 acres with Pat currently trying to raise money to buy more land and expand even more. His most famous animal rescue was the Bolivian circus animals. It is horrible how awful all these great creatures have been tortured by people. It is so amazing to watch them spring back to life wit help from Pat and his crew. I say they came to ANIMAL HEAVEN ON EARTH!! IT IS THE MOST PEACEFUL PLACE TO BE I ALSO CALL IT HEAVEN ON EARTH FOR US HUMANS TOO. This is a charity you can totally trust with your money. Pat Craig has devoted his whole life to these great creatures. After having been there through part of its development and growth I would never hesitate to recommend Pat and the Sanctuary to anyone. Even a dollar donated to them will help keep the animals he now has in such great shape and give him the funds necessary to rescue more under nourished and tortured animals. In addition faced with the huge number of people now coming to visit this special place, he was then faced with what to do with so many people and they have built a wonderful visitors center to help educate visitors to all the problems these poor animals face on a daily basis.
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This place is heaven to wild animals that have been misbused by humans. Pat Craig is a wonderful caring man and has made this place safe for all these poor babies that had such horrible lives before coming here. I have been donating for close to 10 years and know my money goes directly to the animals care or future rescues. A super tranquil happy place for these creatures of God. I just wish I could win the power ball and could donate even more money for him to rescue more deserving animals. When I started he had 155 now he has close to 300. It is his total life's work, he has sacrificed so much to be able to care for these beautiful creatures. Would give a 5 star rating.
This place is amazing and they do amazing work. The animals they rescue are in dire need. They provide a safe, natural, spacious environment which enriches the animals' lives. They definitely know what they're doing in providing the best life for the animals in their care. A great place to visit and support!
Visiting the Wild Animal Sanctuary with your family is such a wonderful experience. Unlike going to a zoo where you constantly wonder how content the animals really are, it is clear that these animals are enjoying life in natural surroundings and are being given dignity as well as good care. The staff is knowledgable and friendly and very devoted to their work. I highly recommend visiting and supporting the Wild Animal Sanctuary.
I was only able to visit once quite awhile ago, but totally impressed with what they do for abused and mistreated wild animals. I have since supported them with a small amount evey month (I am retired). Please check them out and help support their efforts. What a blessing they are to the animals they help!
All animal sanctuaries should aim to be like this one! The animals have so much room to roam & be themselves. The Wild Animal Sanctuary is always building more habitats & improving the ones they already have. My favorite place to visit.
I volunteered to help with a marketing campaign for one of the animals years ago. I got to know Pat Craig and some of the staff and I've been a supporter ever since. The care and love that goes into ensuring these animals have a safe, healthy, and enjoyable environment is beyond what words can describe. Just read some of the stories, you'll see. The photos and videos allow the animals to tell you their story and how happy they are to have the opportunity to be the magnificent creatures they were born to be.
The Wild Animal Sanctuary is one of the most amazing facilities in the world. The dedication and hard work that Pat Craig, his staff and volunteers put in to helping the magnificent creatures that reside there is incredible.
I'm blessed to live near WAS and take advantage of visiting as much as I can.
Each time I visit I am quite humbled.
This is a beautiful and special place and I encourage people to visit so they can experience it themselves.
I've been a donor for a few years. I receive their magazine and read all the stories about the animals they have rescued. They do such great work! I hope one day to visit the sanctuary!
I have been to the Wild Animal Sanctuary several times with my family and always have a wonderful time!!
You can tell the animals are top priority, well taken care of and finally able to enjoy life! ❤
The Wild Animal Sanctuary is truly the most amazing sanctuary I have ever visited. It is very clear the animals are the # 1 priority and they do everything they can to give them the absolute best care possible for the remainder of their life. In addition, the sanctuary works tirelessly to educate the world on these majestic animals and how they need to be cared for and treated.
I can't say enough abouts this place. They take the mistreated and abused, and give them a place to roam freely and safely, a home that they can call their own. The staff and. volunteers are truly amazing, and the chance to spend time with these majestic creatures is a gift.
PLEASE help this great non-profit organization. They are helping so many animals live out the remaining years of their lives in a safe and happy environment. Thank you for all you do!
I have been visiting and supporting the Wild Animal Sanctuary for about 15 years. I have made special efforts to visit even during the past years that I live out of state. TWAS does a remarkable job caring for the many abused animals and allowing them to live with dignity and freedom while receiving excellent care. Visiting TWAS is a magical experience allowing us to see these magnificent animals thrive in a natural habitat. Kudos and praise for Pat and his entire dedicated staff !!
Arlene Donn
Our first visit was over the Thanksgiving weekend 2016 and we loved every minute! A wonderful place for these animals to live out their lives in a natural setting. The elevated walkway allow visitors a clear view of the animals and their habitat without interfering with the animals. The volunteers along the way provide information and insight into the good work being done here. We can't wait to visit again...
Pat Craig and his team are doing wonderful and selfless work out here. My family and I love coming! Now we can enjoy the animals even longer with the addition of the covered walk ways and wonderful new welcome center. Being able to interact with these majestic creatures in such a unique and innovative way is absolutely amazing!
To find a place that shares your love of animals, that believe in the rights of animals and uphold their dignity is a place that should be celebrated. I give monthly to support a wolf called fidget. What a honor it is for me.
We visited the sanctuary last summer and I was blown away! Their primary focus is the animals, not entertaining the public. The work they do for these animals is amazing, they truly make their lives 100% better than before. The animals roam in habitats that are acres and acres, not tiny square boxes.
The volunteers on the catwalk were filled with valuable and interesting information, including the fact that the sanctuary has donated semi-trucks and volunteer drivers that go to different Denver area Wal-Marts to pick up food that is past it's shelf life, but still good, for the animals to eat. They also know the stories of all of the animals and volunteer their time monthly to help make the sanctuary successful for the animals.
The sanctuary puts all animals on some form of birth control so, unlike zoos, they don't continue to contribute to the problem of wild animals in captivity.
During Colorado gives day I made a donation to the sanctuary. A few days later I received a hand-written note thanking me for my donation! It shows they truly value their donors because donations drive the sanctuary. They even have a program sponsored by two generous, anonymous individuals that will match any donations made to their Land Purchase Program so they can continue to grow and improve the lives of more animals in desperate situations.
I can't say enough good things and plan to go back as often as possible! The Wild Animal Sanctuary is the best animal sanctuary, hands down!
I have visited there twice. It is the most amazing, peaceful place I have ever been. The animals are actually happy and not stressed at all. The ability to view from above the animals and not disturb them is a wonderful experience. After my first visit, I adopted a grizzly bear. While I may not ever get to see him, (he lives in a large area with other bears so it's hard to pick him out), it makes me feel good to give back to this earth and to help an organization that actually cares. I see my donation in the animals eyes when they post pictures and in their magazine. I finally feel like I am contributing to a most excellent cause.
Carol Doles San Tan Valley Arizona
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I visited from Phoenix last week. Most awesome place I have been to in a long time. Very relaxing walk and animals were beautiful. Lots of animals out playing and enjoying nice weather. Staff was wonderful and helpful. Will donate to this wonderful cause on a regular basis now and have told all my friends.
Thank you for what you do and the animals you are saving
Your friend in Phoenix
Carol
What an amazing place! The walkway is a perfect place to view the animals in their natural habitat. Highly educated volunteers and staff members are always available to answer any question we have on any animal in any given day. The hard work the staff puts into giving these animals a place to call home is like no other. Adopting an animal is so easy and so rewarding.
My family has visited TWAS twice in recent years. Once before The Mile in The Wild was completed and then since it was. This is A. Most. Wonderful. Place. It is clean; well maintained; and most important of all, all of the animals look happy and well cared for. When we were there last time in 2014, in the fall, we were amazed at all of the rabbits in with the big carnivores who were obviously well fed enough that they didn't feel the need to pursue the bunnies. Pat Craig has obviously revolutionized the sanctuary concept with the Mile in The Wild platform, making it possible to observe the animals without intruding upon them. Truly impressive. I strongly encourage anyone visiting the Denver area, to make a donation and go visit this sanctuary.
We've been to The Wild Animal Sanctuary many times and each time I'm amazed and so very thankful that a place like this exists for so many beautiful and rescued animals. It's absolutely wonderful what they do for these animals and in every part of the sanctuary, it's obvious how much each and every one of them are loved and cared for. God bless The Wild Animal Sanctuary!
This place is heaven on earth. If you enjoy zoos this doesn't even compare. It is so huge the animals don't look like they are even contained. Beautiful place. Would go every day if I could.
Visitng Colorado when my aunt and I heard about the wild animal sanctuary. It was even better than I imagined, and definitely a must see next time I visit Colorado again. Bless places like this that rescue these amazing animals and care so much for their well being.
This is a wonderful group that takes so much pride in their care for their animals and ones that just arrive. Their treatment is the kind a genuinely kind person would be towards their beloved granparents. Genuine, kind, caring and responsible.
Adopting animals and making monthly donations to help is a great way to do your part to help preserve these incredible animals and keep them out of harms way. They are TWASmazing!!
What a phenomenal place. When we have visited we were moved by their mission and the selfless dedication of all the volunteers. Add that to the cool walkway for visitors. We will go back every time we are in the area. I cannot say enough about the good they do.
The first time I went to the Wild Animal Sanctuary was out of curiosity. Once I got in I saw how the animals were treated. They were treated with respect for the wild animals that they are. There is a long walk away above the Sanctuary that you can walk, that does not disturb the animals. I watched Bears that were recently rescued taking a bath .....we had to be quiet to not disturb them....they were in a happy shock to see what a life without bars was like. The animals continue to get strong, healthy and majestic in their new surroundings. I donate to this organization every time I have some extra money. No matter how small the donation I give I get a letter from Pat Craig and Company thanking me for the contribution. All the money goes to the animals well being and you can see it in the hearts of the animals and the people that work there.
I have been to the Wild Animal Sanctuary many times. It is such a wonderful place to see the animals in a more natural habitat and observe them from above to see them acting naturally without disturbance from people. I love their magazine and reading about their updates on the animals and the rescues they do. They are are great group of people dedicated to helping, rescuing and educating people about the captive wild animal crisis.
We went in mid February 2016 as friend was getting cancer treatment nearby. From the start the staff were friendly, welcoming and genuinely interested. They shared info on who I'd adopted, some newer rescues and several updates about the bear cub they'd rescued from near us. I was thankful for my long zoom lens as the animals were in their own world, away from obvious barriers and humans encroaching. We stayed most of the day and got to witness the wolves howling, the lions roaring, bears running and playing in the water, another playing with its enclosure and a tiger lapping fresh water. You get the feeling of being on safari without being a world away. The silence and beauty of the area is only enriched knowing that ALL the animals were rescued from various situations and seem to truly be comfortable and enjoy their surrounding.
When I was here I was in awe of Pat and everybody at the sanctuary. I had an amazing time and didn't want to leave! If you get a chance, please go visit. It will be worth the time and money.
This is, without a doubt the most caring and responsible sanctuary in the world. Have visited there many times and always impressed. Our family has adopted wolves, bears and a Bolivian lion to which we contribute every month. It is money well spent
I was unsure what to expect on my first visit to The Wild Animal Sanctuary. It was a warm October day and we were looking for something to do for the afternoon. We were pleasantly surprised by the information provided prior to entering the Sanctuary. The workers/volunteers are very knowledgable and happy to provide information about the care of the animals and the purpose of the sanctuary. It was a joy to see the animals in the open and know that they are cared for so well. Our trip was not at all like visiting the zoo. Keep that in mind. You should bring binoculars as the animals are free to roam all over their area which is very large. After just one trip, I now support the Sanctuary and plan to return again soon.
The Wild Animal Sanctuary is a magical place. While there, I have heard lions and tigers roar. Where else can you go and see a lion laying on its back, so comfortable in his expansive surroundings? What strikes me most when I visit is that you can almost sense the appreciation the animals feel. It's absolutely magical. My children (5 and 7) have decided for their birthdays they would like us to donate to The Wild Animal Sanctuary instead of getting toys.
This is the most amazing Sanctuary. We've been to others around the USA and This is by far the best of all. We donate annually and hope others will also. I can't think of a better "cause" if you are an animal lover. The owner and care givers devote their entire lives to the Sanctuary. When you visit, it is so obvious that they care for all their animals. The animals have such freedom to roam ( many having been confined for years), they have stellar veterinarian care, and top notch nutrition! They thrive in their new environments.
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TWAS is a phenomenal place. We happily donate to them. When the owner and family puts everything into this charity, you know it is the real deal. The first time I went, the owner just happened to be on the walkway. I didn't know who he was but he answered all my questions. Then later realized who he was. Just shows another level of commitment. We now go by whenever we are in Colorado. Keep up the good work for these wonder creatures.
I can not say enough about this amazing place! TWAS has taken in animals from around the world from various horrible conditions. These animals are finally allowed to live out their lives in huge open spaces free from exploitations, neglect and abuse. They are a 'true' sanctuary and I am proud to be a supporter.
Such a great place to visit. TWAS is a wonderful sanctuary for these rescued animals to live the rest of their lives happy, well taken care of and able to roam in a large acre habitat.
TWAS restores my hope in humanity daily! Reading their social media updates and following their tireless efforts to rescue neglected and abused wild animals has brought me to tears on many occasions. Tears of joy, that is, to know that this selfless organization places a high value on doing the right thing, focusing on the task, and giving beautiful wild creatures the chance to be themselves: unchained, uncaged, free, and loved for the first time in their lives. Please donate generously, they truly deserve your funding. Thank you.
Please consider donating to the animals at this sanctuary. They take in the abused, the tortured, the malnourished, the forgotten and they provide rehabilitation, medical services and genuine love, care & respect. They have designed habitats for each species based on their needs and enjoyment. They have given them acreage to enjoy freedom, food to fill their belly and healthcare to live out their lives in comfort & dignity. This is such an amazing place and no donation is too small. Every dollar counts and will help save another life of an incredible animal who did not deserve such cruelty.
Wow, this place is wonderful. I sponsor a lion and have for several years. Everyone we go I am amazed at what they do and what great care all the animals receive.
I have supported the Wild Animal Sanctuary for years. It's my charity of choice due to their absolute determination and devotion to save and care for as many animals in need as they possibly can. They communicate with us via newsletters and social media, and they offer an amazing and unique visitor experience that allows us to see the animals in their habitats without disturbing or upsetting them. Proud to be a small part of what they do.
A beautiful sanctuary and very spacious for all the different animals. I was amazed at the love and dedication of the people involved with The Wild Animal Sanctuary. They truly care for, love, and respect the animals. They are also very informative on what is happening with or has happened with these animals, it's all about the animals, as it should be. I am proud to have visited this sanctuary and helped them even if it was just a little. If you are ever in Colorado this is a must see.
This is an outstanding wild animal sanctuary, and is highly rated by Charity Navigator. I researched before Christmas for a good wild animal non-profit to donate to, and found this. Read about their rescued tigers, lions, bears, and more...living happily now .on 720 acres. Their staff is great. Wonderful, caring people
We visited the Wild Animal Sanctuary for the first time, have wanted to go for years, but we made it out to Colorado in July 2016, and absolutely LOVED seeing all the animals. The elevated walkway is truly an inspirational and inventive idea of how to allow the animals to not feel threatened or affected in any way by all of the visitors. No sanctuaries I am aware of allow you to visit like this one of kind place. The animals that have had such tough lives and abuse at the hands of humans are now allowed to live a life of peace, and love and caring in a new home in the sanctuary, We were blown away at all of the animals stories and how well they take care of the animals with all of the enrichment's in their territories. Truly an inspiring place!
Far exceeds expectations. The facility itself is a delight to visit. Animals live in free habitats and visitors are able to view them without "assaulting" them via a skybridge. A most amazing, wonderful design. Their behind-the-scenes work to provide these animals with the best life possible is wonderful. Thank goodness for a facility and people like this.
I am a monthly donor to this amazing place. I have visited a number of times and have to say I am proud of what they are doing for these animals. The staff is always pleasant and willing to chat about the animals. A true passion and loving environment.
Wonderful place to visit. Great sanctuary. Great people that work and care for the animals. A+++++**
This place is simply amazing. Don't let the modest cost of entry and slight drive from Denver deter you from visiting. My husband and I visited a little over a year ago, in the dead of summer, and we were awestruck at the magnitude of the facility and the amount of animals they have helped, and continue to help. Unlike a zoo, these animals have huge enclosures and you can see in their eyes they are happy to be there. The catwalks, while high, allow you to see these animals behave in their "natural" environment. Please, by all means, visit and donate! You'll be glad you did! If you do visit, take heed of the weather! Sunglasses, sunscreen, hat, binoculars, and cameras are all a good idea.
the Wild Animal Samctusry takes neglected and abused animals (mostly carnivores) and gives them a wonderful, loving, food filled environment to play and live a life they wouldn't have in captivity. They use education to help others know about threats to these beautiful creatures and a walkway High above the habitats to allow visitors to observe the animals from a safe and stress free distance.
They raised the price of admission to help the need and because this isn't another zoo--they need help to expand and preserve their cause and provide for these animals.
Pat and all the staff at The Wild Animal Sanctuary have huge hearts and deserve all the help and support in the world to help these animals get out of the cages they were forced to live in and to stop the problems people cause by purchasing and keeping large carnivores when they deserve to be in the wild.
They give details and continuing reports through their magazine and videos about the animals, showing before and after photos. This is a great nonprofit group that helps wild animals that have been abused
The best place ever! I visited for first time on vacation 4 years ago & now I go back every year. The dedication to animals & the love & care given to the rescues is immeasurable. They do what's best for the animals, not what's best for the general public visiting & that's the way it should be. The animals have huge appropriate habitats & even underground dens for the bears to hibernate in. The lions & lionesses are put into prides, each with a huge habitat with room to roam & be as close to living in the wild as possible. The animals are given the best medical care, fed well & are loved. It is a very worthy cause.
I visited this non profit sanctuary on a recent trip from Utah to Colorado to visit wild animal sanctuaries (4 total). This sanctuary, by far, was superior to the others! I am excited for the new visitors center to open and provide more 'sky' walking paths. The two young grizzly bears, both females, were great entertainment. I watched them play like they hadn't a care in the world! And they sure enjoyed their watermelon balls! I highly recommend a visit. In addition, it is extremely expensive to sustain 720 acres and all the animals. Please donate - it's tax deductible!
I love passion of all of the people involved! They truly love the animals and care about their lives!
We visited the Wild Animal Sanctuary for the first time last summer, and I was literally blown away. This Sanctuary is absolutely amazing. The rescued animals are able to roam in large habits and seem to enjoy their space. The stories for how many of these animals were treated at the hands of humans before being rescued by TWAS made me cry. My daughter quit reading them because it made her so sad. Thank God for the wonderful staff and volunteers who work so selflessly to care for these magnificent creatures. One thing that stood out to me was how relaxed and stress free all of the animals seemed. No nervous pacing, lots of sun worshipping, big cat stretches, and playful bears. This is the absolute best place for these rescued animals. It is 100% clear how dedicated the Craigs are to their mission and the mission is clear, it is about the care of the animals. We will visit again in a few days. I am proud to be an active supporter of this outstanding and caring facility. There are simply not enough words to express our thanks and respect for the work that is done there. God Bless TWAS and it's supporters. :)
Denise and Grace Burns.
Iwill never forget my trip. A sanctuary has always been on my bucket list. I cried the minute I enetered. The guide cried with me. I had read all the stories. I was unprepared for the emotions I felt. Your place is beautiful and I felt like family. I watched evety animal enjoy its life in peace. I will be back. Thank you, yhank you, thank you. May God bless you all.
Where to begin? This place is needed at present and it rocks! The bottom line here is there are so many animals in need...being abused, neglected, disrespected, harmed, used as entertainment and killed in our world. The easy piece to pull out of the equation is the human contribution. If we can shift that contribution to love, support and respect for all living things, a place such as The Wild Animal Sanctuary would not need to exist. Thank goodness they do as the world and all it's humans are not living in cooperation and respect with other living beings as of yet! My vision is seeing this happen now for all of our sakes. What a beautiful place the world is and how much better it would be living this vision! The WAS provides this environment and arena that makes this a possibility for the animals in need. They are kind, compassionate, knowledgable, extremely hard workers. I cannot fully express my gratitude for their intentions and what they have created for the evolution and awareness of all... Please visit and support them any way you find possible... Thank you!
Hi, we visited your sanctuary just last week for the first time. We were there about 4 hours and met several of your staff members. We were so impressed with the compassion and love for this sanctuary that we wanted to make a donation. I received info from you in the mail yesterday, so a check is on it's way. Thank you so much for doing what you do for these precious animals. On our next trip to CO, you guys will be on our list of things to do. We were there on July 6 and the girl that was out under the tent area was so nice and informative. I don't remember her name, but she talked with us for an hour or so. It was a great experience. XOXOXO Anita & Bill Wright
I have never visited The Wild Animal Sanctuary, but their digital educational material is wonderful! I really enjoy following their Facebook page.
I support TWAS monthly. Been out there 4 times. Their work is amazing their dedication and love is tops! The animals are so at peace and I will help to support them as long as I am alive. Their education is outstanding.
I have been a supporter of The Wild Animal Sanctuary for several years. The people and the organization are wonderful. They truly care about the animals and really do give the animals a wonderful life - definitely changing their lives for the better. In addition, the organization strives to educate people about the Captive Wildlife Crisis so that hopefully one day, there will not be so many animals that need saving due to this problem. This is an organization that works tirelessly to help animals and is very deserving of any support you can provide.
An incredibly well organized and mindful facility. Love from the ground up and for miles around. From removing the human stressors by putting "us" on a raised platform to quickly building brilliant transitional features for newcomers, this is a team of professionals dedicated to teamwork and ingenuity on a level that I've never really even considered; much less encountered. Zoos could learn a lot from these people. This is how it's done. Worth every penny at three times the price.
I love The Wild Animal Sanctuary! The stories of where these animals come from is so heartbreaking, I adopted 8 animals. I said I'd stop at 8 but I'm tempted to sponsor more!
The Wild Animal Sanctuary is the kind of place you wish didn't need to exist...that people would just not treat wild animals so horribly in the first place. But because there are so many people that DO, it's awesome that The Wild Animal Sanctuary cares and steps in to provide these animals with so much space, and all the food and care they need.
One of my animals, a coyote, was rescued from Mexico, where he was used in tribal rituals that included stringing him up in the air by his front legs, sometimes for days at a time. When he first arrived at the sanctuary, he could barely walk. Now I see videos of him running around and rolling just like my dogs do at my house. He came from horrific conditions, but he's living the good life now!
Another of my animals, a black bear, was declawed and had her teeth pulled so that people could train attack dogs by putting this now defenseless bear in an enclosed area with them. Thankfully, that practice is now illegal in all 50 states, and Grandy found a new home where no one will attack her.
And then there's the grizzly bear separated from her mom at just a few days old and put in a mall for photo ops...the tiger rescued from a gas station where tiger cubs were for sale...the lions rescued from a circus where they had tiny cages and were malnourished...and so many more.
Every time I go, I can't help but weep for the evil in the world that allowed these stories to happen, and rejoice at the good in the world that inspires people like Pat Craig to run a sanctuary that will help these animals live a good life.
The WILD ANIMAL SANCTUARY - Visited on a rainy day and it didn't matter because the staff and the animals were still willing to give me a great visit. I can't wait to get back up and see all the new enclosures. One of the best experiences of my life with regards to Tigers and other wild cats being recused. The pure dedication given by the volunteers and donations from all over, make this a dream come true for me (even though a perfect dream would be that people do not buy/take or otherwise remove these precious cats from their environments). Love, Love, Love the Sanctuary!!!
I am deeply honored and humbled to be able to be part of this amazing organization. Not only their mission is imperative, but their dedication and love for those rescued is apparent when you look into the eyes of these beautiful creatures. Thank you, for giving us a way to give back to the world. Together, we can make this world a better place.
This sanctuary and Pat Craig are incredible and provide a safe, happy and fun environment for all types of rescue animals. If it wasn't for Pat Craig, they animals would most like not be with us anymore or worse.
Have you ever been to a place with such happy, positive energy, that you wanted to stay for hours,days, or longer? The Wild Animal Sanctuary is that place. The founder, Pat Craig, is one of the most humble, loving people you'll ever meet, and that is reflected in all of the staff, and the animals. It is absolute bliss seeing lions, jaguars, bears,and other wild animals have HUGE open areas to roam through, and bask in the fresh air and sunshine. The facility is clean, and well-run, putting the animals' needs as top priority. Treat yourself, your family, and your friends to a visit. And trust me, you'll be back!!! :)
I've been visiting and supporting TWAS for years because of the work they do. To see the majestic creatures living in peace is phenomenal. They care about the animals FIRST.
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I found out about this wonderful organization through a documentary on Animal Planet. I have since visited several times, directed my charitable donations the the Combined Federal Campaign to the organization and purchased merchandise to both support and advertise their efforts. I think what they do is beyond words. These animals have no choices and Pat and his crew provide to them care, food and a real home after years of abuse and exploitation. Some of the stories have made me cry and then I see a beautiful lion on his back in the sun and I am speechless. The efforts made and the accomplishments are miraculous. I am proud to say there is a small piece of heaven right here in my beautiful state of Colorado.
I have been following the Sanctuary for a couple of years now. I am so happy that they have rescued many wild animals from Mexico's circuses etc. The sanctuary keeps the rescues in large enclosures to let them be as close as posible as their natural settings.
I've been able to adopt 2 animals at The Wild Animal Sanctuary. Dixie was a female Mountain lion that lived out the last of her life in freedom. I chose to adopt her because I live in Mountain Lion country although never actually seeing one evidence is around. To know in the wild they have a 100 mile radius made me sad when I heard about the awful life Dixie endured. After Dixie died I had just been to TWAS and commiserated with Max, a bear who had just arrived from Florida and had a bad hip problem. I, too, was limping around with a bad hip that was later replaced. We were kindred spirits, Max had to be my next adopted animal! He is doing so much better with meds in peanut butter sandwiches that I'm happy to help provide.
I started volunteering about 3 months ago. I previously adopted 2 animals. I wanted to do more because there is so much work to have an Incredible place such as the sanctuary for these Beautiful animals. The best part of being a different charity is you actually get to see all the work and care that goes into the care of animals and their habitats with the monetary donations you provide. This sanctuary is the Next Best thing these to be free in the wild. Because they weren't raised in the wild we are so privileged to have such a wonderful place in Colorado that they call Home!
I've known about TWAS for something like 14 years now. I've seen them grow from the single round building to expansive habitats for the animals. The love and respect for the animals is amazing. All of the animal spaces are well kept and spectacular. All of the people places are simple and practical. TWAS is all about the animals. I can see how all of my donations and those of many others go directly for the support and care of the animals. I love how TWAS cares for the animals allowing them a beautiful, safe, and natural life. I will continue to support them for a long time.
I absolutely love The Wild Animal Sanctuary. They are a no-nonsense rescue organization that provides animals a second chance at the life they should have had from the beginning. The fact is, people can be terrible. They can be cruel and evil and put animals through situations worse than hell. This organization helps me remember that there are good people in the world who genuinely care for animals and believe they should be treated with kindness and respect. I am a regular donor to TWAS, and I visit frequently. They have wonderful habitats and their absolute number one priority is the welfare of their animals. There is no fancy marketing or flashy advertisements or mailers. You know that any money you gives goes to the animals. When you visit, you see relaxed, content and happy animals living a wonderful (and much overdue) life. I can't thank TWAS enough for what they do. They are truly amazing.
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I can't say enough wonderful things about TWAS. This organization gives animals new hope and the best care possible. They do it through honesty and integrity. Visiting the sanctuary, you are reminded that everything they do is with the benefit of the animals in mind. You see animals that are relaxed and content. I know wholeheartedly that my donor money is going directly to caring for the animals. They don't do flashy ads or marketing. They run a simple operation that does one thing: gives the animals the best life possible.
The first opportunity I had to see the amazing animals at the Wild Animal Sanctuary was a fun run to raise money for the care of the animals. EVERYONE I encountered was incredibly kind, knowledgeable and truly interested in the welfare of the animals. I loved seeing the animals and hearing their stories from the skywalk...what a fantastic idea to help the animals feel less stress. This is a wonderful place that respects and treats the animals with dignity. Highly recommend a visit if you have the chance,
Very caring and exceptional care for all the animals. They welcome all visitors and are happy to answer questions. Great job of rescuing animals in need.
I look forward to seeing daily Facebook posts about the wonderful animals at the Wild Animal Sanctuary - they take such good care of them in the most natural way possible. I once emailed them with a question about a local zoo type facility and they answered promptly and although the facility keeps the animals in an environment that they don't agree with, they were very respectful and educated in their response.
I have never been to the Animal Sanctuary in Colorado, but I'm a monthly donor because I believe so strongly in the work they are doing. Their animals have suffered terribly at the hands of humans and this is my way of helping, in some small way, one person at a time, to make up for it. These animals have been abused, disrespected, used for human entertainment and profit. I'm here speaking for those creatures that don't have a voice, yet have every right to be treated with respect and dignity and should be wild and free. Unfortunately they are not. But, the Wild Animal Sanctuary gives them all that and a new shot at life. It may not be as good as roaming wild and free, but it's the next best thing. Man is the only animal to kill for sport, we need to reverse some of that bad karma.
I was so pleased to discover The Wild Animal Sanctuary 3 years ago and to learn how they save so man animals from terrible situations. I have a friend that volunteers out there so I know how hard everyone works out there to take the best care of the animals that they can. It is a place where animals get to be free from tiny cages and experience a life that is closer to their natural habitat. The new bridge walkway is incredible; you really get a birds eye view of many of the animals. The animals really look content compared to when you go to a zoo where they are pacing back and forth. Also, I have to mention that the yearly Run Into The Wild event is the best walk, 5k, 10, half and full marathon even ever! I am blown away each year and can't wait to raise money for the 5k that I do. I'm excited this year to be able to bring apples and pumpkins for the bears and other animals. They really have a blast eating and playing with the pumpkins. I look forward to going back each year and helping in any way that I can.
This sanctuary is amazing! They definitely care more about the animals welfare than about getting visitors in through the door for money. I think it is great that they raise awareness while rehabilitating the animals in a place they can grow and live in a giant habitat.
The work The Wild Animal Sanctuary does is absolutely amazing!!! To read the stories of the animals they rescue is unbelievably heartbreaking. But then to read how the lives of these animals have been turned around is nothing short of a miracle. The tireless dedication of Pat Craig, and all the staff and volunteers, is what makes everything they do here possible. I support the sanctuary on a regular consistent basis, and will continue to do so in order to provide a better life, and in some cases a first chance at a real life, for all these beautiful creatures. I hope they can continue to do this good work for decades to come!
I have been to Wild Animal Sanctuary twice. It is the most awesome place in the world. I volunteer at a sanctuary in Florida and have been to many other sanctuaries and this one is by far the best. The large habitats are wonderful and to just sit and listen to the lions carol is the most wonderful feeling that they can be free as they can be and be content. Pat does a wonderful job and truly cares only for the animals the their well being.
I love going to the TWAS. The volunteers are available to answer all your questions and it's obvious they have great love and admiration for the animals in their care. I enjoyed bringing my sister to visit. It's also the go to place for my husband and me. I love the Mile into the wild walkway. I've been fortunate to see the big animals get a snack. The life most of the animals had were difficult at best, but, thank God, there is a haven for them now. I am a proud supporter that believes it is money well spent.
The wolves in the video were taken by someone who paid to see them live and close up in an Iowa mall - where bears, wolves, and large cats, etc. were housed for 4 years never seeing the sun or experiencing dirt beneath their feet. It was Pat Craig, director of TWAS who I contacted and he agreed to come to Iowa and take them into the sanctuary for the remainer of their lives if the city were to receive possession of them. Fueled with that knowedge that a good result could happen, a public campaign and petition was waged to inform people about the unnecessary cruelty that was ongoing within the walls of the mall. They now reside free from exploitation in the Colorado plains in their packs. Priceless.
Phenomenal staff and dedicated people. Pat Craig has created a true sanctuary for these animals. To be able to so many animals that came from horrible conditions have freedom to roam, good food, care is a beautiful thing. I will never grow tired of visiting and supporting this wonderful place. They are even in my will.
Words can't explain how amazing this place is, especially for those who now call it home. Thanks to all the people, that work and volunteer here, mistreated and abused animals now have a happy ending to their sad stories. I tell everyone I know to take their families on a tour at this great place and be aware of what some animals endure at the hands of us humans.
I chose to donate to this non-profit because of the work they do to save wild animals all over the world. I see love and gratitude in the eyes of the animals that are at the sanctuary. They are beautiful and they are free. When I first donated, I received a personal letter from the Director in which he explained how their new admission policy works. I would invite you to look at their website or visit them on Facebook and consider them in your giving plans.
I was planning a trip back to Colorado with my family (after having lived on the front range years ago), and found this place online while looking for activities. I went from questioning whether it was legitimate to becoming an active supporter, and taking my family for a visit one sunny afternoon. They have SO MUCH space for the animals, it is just wonderful and everything was very clean. The kids loved it, too. I am so happy that these folks have been able to keep this place running to take care of animals that can't go back to the wild. I support a few other animal non-profits, and this one ranks right up there for me.
When my wife and I first visited the Wild Animal Sanctuary, we were absolutely blown away by the incredible work that they are doing to provide a decent existence for animals that have been (in all too many cases) horribly abused. We are not particularly charitable, but we have donated funds in various ways and are looking into donating our time as volunteers to this wonderful organization.
This is such a great organization. They're not like other sanctuaries that make their animals "entertain" the public. You get to see the animals in their natural environment. And sometimes you do get entertain with an occasional tigers or bears playing outside.
TWAS rescues animals from despair and let's them spend the rest of their precious lives living as they should: Wild, safe, and free.
The Wild Animal Sanctuary in Keenesburg, Colorado is a truly unique and wonderful place dedicated to providing a peaceful and happy existence to rescued wild animals. The opportunity to help these animals which humanity has so recklessly stolen from the wild and forced to endure unimaginable suffering is a blessing and the team at The Wild Animal Sanctuary gives it their all. I am grateful to them for their work and their untiring support of these animals and the sustenance of a better life for them.
The absolute best non profit out there! This place is passionate about their animals, and doesn't spend your hard earned money on high administrative fees! I am a long time donor, and will continue to donate for years to come. These animals need our contributions to survive! What better gift is there? They have paid their price of being abused and neglected. No one should have to suffer like that. This is a wonderful way to spend the rest of their lives.
My husband and I were at a summer Safari dinner which was in the Lion House. Pat Craig was telling one of the wonderful stories of rescue when five lions seemed to hear Pat"s voice, and they began to roar... AND IT WAS LOUD! So loud the tables, floor, and the whole lion house shook. I've never FELT the joy from an animal hearing his savior, but we felt it that night. Thank you Mr. Pat Craig and all your helpers.
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My husband and I are such fans of 'The Wild Animal Sanctuary' and all the hard work they do. Mr. Pat Craig the founder is an amazing person, and there is a special place for him in heaven. We have been lucky to have had dinner with the lions and hear Pat's stories of animal rescues and his life. My husband, family and friends visit the Sanctuary and love the improvements and up grades for the animals that is going on daily, monthly and yearly: which is why we are so proud to be donors of this wonderful place!
This place is amazing. The new life that they give to these animals is so heartwarming. We first visited a few years ago and now I look fwd to visiting when we're in Colorado. Thanks to all the love & dedicated people of the TWAS. You have our support and hope this sheds some light on the great deeds done for these beautiful creatures of God...
Our recent visit to the Wild Animal Sanctuary sincerely was one of the most amazing experiences I have ever had. To witness the compassion, knowledge and love given to these animals is beyond anything I've ever witnessed. We had the privilege of meeting the owner and his sweet pack of dogs trailing at his heels. You can tell that every employee and volunteer is there to better the lives of animals that for so long were not given proper care. As a visitor, you get to witness countless second chances and a sweet, sweet reminder that all living things deserve dignity.
The folks from The Wild Animal Sanctuary braved a winter trip from Colorado to the mountains of Northeast Georgia to rescue grizzly and black bears that had been kept in the concrete pits of a roadside attraction. The mama bear's cubs were taken away almost immediately... some had to be tube fed, they were so young. Not only did the Sanctuary have to deal with getting through snow storm, they also had to work with a bank on the foreclosure deadline to get the bears out and on to Colorado. To see some of these bears take their first steps on grass and to actually keep their new cubs was absolutely wonderful. So, "lions, tigers and bears, oh my" IS the Wild Animal Sanctuary.
I went there once after hearing about it and saw the absolutely wonderful environment these animals had compared to the deplorable positions they can from. Stories that would break your heart. Not just local cases but all over the world. Spread the word no matter how far and wide and it can make a difference in a suffering animals life. My friend was able to volunteer there and said it was the most amazing experience if her life and I wish I could have done it before I moved! If anything, make sure to visit!
I live in Uruguay, a small and quite poor country. We have several zoos, witch are in a horrible shape. The Wild Animal Sanctuary offered a place and took financial care to 3 tigers that were in a sad situation. They now live free and have the best care ever! Uruguayan people will be eternally grateful to The Wild Animal Sanctuary. God Bless them for the amazing job.
The big cats here are in the best hands in the world!! Not only big cats, but a variety of abused animals. The care they give the animals at their facility is exceptional!! They should be rated one of the best animal rescue facilities in the world!!
I was blown away at the people, property, and animals at the Wild Animal Sanctuary. The people were so caring and knowlegeable. The property is how all zoos should be built. The animals were happy, well-taken care of, clean, and content with their large areas to roam. Thank you Wild Animal Sanctuary for being the perfect model of how to build and maintain an animal sanctuary!
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The Wild Animal Sanctuary in Keensburg, CO is by far one of my favorite non-profit organizations for abandoned/neglected or otherwise mistreated animals. My family and I just visited the 400 acre sanctuary and it was amazing. Our favorite part was little (well not so little) Eva the grizzly playing in her pond with her surrogate mom/bff Marley. She played so hard that she fell in the pond backwards, went completely underwater and popped up unfazed charging for momma again. She is enjoying a great new life with fellow bears instead of being a photo prop. I love a good ending... thanks to all the great people that make up the TWAS team!!!
We have been visiting TWAS for about 10 years now. It's wonderful to see the animals in a more natural setting and seeing them comfortable in their surroundings. We take all visiting family members there and "adopted" 3 of the animals. We appreciate what Pat and Casey do so much, we left TWAS in our wills!
Everything this sanctuary does is with animals' well-being as number one priority.
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The staff are exceptionally dedicated and prioritize the well-being of the animals over everything else. The animals are very personal to everyone here. I'm grateful to be able to volunteer and take a little bit of load off the hard-working staff and educate the public about the past atrocities of the animals and the happy ending that's in store for them.
Review from Guidestar
The Wild Animal Sanctuary is not like going to a zoo. Each and every one of these animals was saved from horrific living conditions and is living the rest of their days out in expansive and appropriate habitats with companions. Become a sustaining member, take your friends out there to get them fired up about the cause, get your employer to match your donation. This is a GREAT cause and I love this organization and its staff members and volunteers from the bottom of my heart.
The love, time, dedication and comment the employees and volunteers had given these beautiful creatures is beyond words! My family and I were SO impressed with the serenity of the Sancurary and the animals seemed so much at peace! It's nice to know that the animals have a safe environment to live out their lives after such a horrible beginning before they were rescued!
The sanctuary is a spectacular place. The skywalk offers visitors the ability to see a wide variety of wild animals in peaceful, open habitat. The creatures appear perfectly healthy and content and their care is evident. I worked in national parks for 40 years and believe strongly in leaving wild animals alone in their native places.
But for the many that have been snatched out of the wilderness or bred in captivity, then abused or ignored or commercialized, the sanctuary provides a real home. These animals can never live in the wild; they don't know how and have no territories of their own. So they have been given this lovely chunk of Colorado where they live lives that most animals could only dream of--plenty of food, good company, great habitat, and terrific care. Best of all, the sanctuary does not breed the animals, ensuring that none are unnecessarily added to the worldwide crisis.
The most amazing animal rescue I have ever had the pleasure of seeing. These big cats, bears, wolves, assorted others that they just could not refuse, are in heaven on earth from where they came. Wow, what an amazing place. I participated in the 5 K run they have every year and it was just incredible. These animals are rescued from a lifetime of neglect and torture. To see their rehabilitation is heartwarming. Some are so sad and have behavior habits not normal for that animal when they arrive. They take their time in introducing them to their new habitat with small steps and less stress. The transformation is glorious. When I win the lottery, this is one of my million plus donations. I rate it a 10 star!!
THIS PLACE IS ANIMAL HEAVEN ON EARTH. PAT CRAIG HAS DEDICATED HIS WHOLE LIFE TO THE RESCUE AND CARE OF THESE WONDERFUL ANIMALS THAT HAVE BEEN TREATED SO HORRIBLY BY PEOPLE USING THEM FOR PROFIT.
PLEASE DONATE YOU CAN TOTALLY TRUST EVERY PENNY TO GO FOR THEIR CARE AND THE RESCUE OF OTHERS STILL BEING TORTURED OUT THERE BY STUPID, EVIL PEOPLE. EVEN A DOLLAR WILL HELP
I donate 20 dollars a month... I can visit twice a week or more if I want and take friends and family members. The work the TWAS do, is amazing. The animals well taken care of and are free to be animals. It's absolutely my favorite place to go. I recommend a visit to all my friends and family. Go donate you won't be sorry...
The efforts of this organization are just miraculous. You can see in the animals' eyes that they know they have been saved. The before and after pictures from the time of rescue to shortly after moving to the sanctuary are amazing.
The Wild Animal Sanctuary is a model sanctuary. Fabulous mission, fabulous people, fabulous experience!
This organization is amazing!! I discovered this place in 2013, I cried the first time I was at the Sanctuary. As an animal lover it makes me so happy when I can tell a place really cares about the animals and puts their interest before anything else. This is exactly what the Wild Animal Sanctuary does. Seeing these animals that have suffered immensely finally be so happy and have so much room without being put on display is always worth the trip.
I have been lucky enough to visit the Wild Animal Sanctuary twice in one summer. The animals are well cared for and have ample room to romp and rest in. When you visit, you are not to close to the animals which is good because their space must be respected. I was greeted by the tigers upon coming down the driveway and by two males each from the two Lion prides. Hands down, this sanctuary is worth supporting. They really are for the animals and it shows.
I heard about the sanctuary when I returned to live in CO. After visiting the sanctuary and reading the rescue stories, I decided to adopt two bears, Ricki and baby Eva. It is a beautiful place for the animals there and all look healthy and happy. All staff are well informed and always willing to answer questions a visitor might have. I really like how well they know about introduction of new animals to the older sanctuary members. Some of the animals may never be able to live in large habitats with other of their kind due to horrific abuse. Even these animals have their space, great care, breed specific food. I just love spending time and learning something new about their residents every time I go. I love what they do, and how they do it. Keep it up! Hopefully, one day, with awareness and organizations like The Wild Animal Sanctuary in Keensburg, CO, animal abuse and suffering will disappear. I know that my bears and all the other rescued animals are grateful to TWAS.
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I am an active supporter of The Wild Animal Sanctuary in Keensburg, CO. It's a wonderful facility for so many animals previously abused. The staff is wonderful, very knowledgeable about the animals and very helpful. I enjoy visiting when I can as they they a wonderful walkway which allows one to see the animals in a natural environment without disturbing them. I absolutely love the sanctuary. The baby bear in the tub is Eva, rescued from a breeding center. She is enjoying a bath and watermelon with her surrogate mom, Marley. Love it!
Each of the animals has a name..now they have forever homes. .we are members and love coming. .the bears are my favorite. .this is an amazing place
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My first encounter with the work of the Wild Animal Sanctuary was when I saw clips about the Bolivian circus lion rescue and that these beautiful lions would be flying all the way to Colorado where they would be given the best care and have a beautiful environment in which to be lions. I followed the story and soon fell head over heels in love with Kimba, the beautiful male lion who was in a horrible cage for 12 years alone and in terrible shape. He was given the best veterinary and dental care and his own habitat as he was blind in one eye and nearly blind in the other where he roared in the most wonderful way, enjoying his bed and grass and toys. I supported him as an adopter. He passed away last year and yes, I cried. I have his picture in my house that was sent to me when I adopted him by The Wild Animal Sanctuary, his home. The end of his life was wonderful as he bonded with a female lion and had company in his habitat. (this was a great accomplishment as he had been unable to accept a companion prior to this). I give to the Sanctuary when I can and always a little every month. Reading about all the wonderful rescues and miraculous lives these beautiful animals are given compared to the terrible places they came from is the most life affirming experience for me. Kimba remains in my heart, and I swear some days I can feel that he knows that. Supporting The Wild Animal Sanctuary is the most rewarding experience and I encourage anyone who can to do so and receive the joy that I have received. I look forward to visiting there one day in the future!
The Wild Animal Sanctuary is truly a wonderful place. The help and environment they provide the animals they rescue is amazing. People complain about the price of admission but this is not a typical "zoo". It is worth every penny to go and see what this place provides for the animals. This is a place where the animals can live in their own environment. Please consider donating and going to see this sanctuary.
What a wonderful place - from both human and animal point of view! For people, the sanctuary is a spectacular place to see wildlife, and thanks to the elevated walkway, do so without disturbing the animals.Most importantly, the animals are well cared for, safe and able to live out their lives in peace. I am a proud monthly donor and advocate of the sanctuary and strongly believe they have earned a spot at the top of GreatNonprofits.
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The animals at The Wild Animal Sanctuary have a new lease on life. They are safe, well-cared for and have an amazing amount of acreage to call home. The elevated walkway is a fantastic way to balance limiting human exposure to the animals vs visibility for visitors. We in Colorado are fortunate to have the Sanctuary.
This is an incredible rescue and an amazing sanctuary! Viewing of animals I available to public with the first priority being the comfort and freedom of the animals. Never are they exploited.
A beautiful sanctuary which considers the health, instincts and nature of the animals.
An amazing place where animals are free in huge spaces.
I love this place!
I first visited The Wild Animal Sanctuary 1.5 years ago with my girlfriend. We've since been at least a half dozen times with friends and family. Three of those visits have been since their policy change that closed them to the general public, but open to "active supporters". I'm glad they made that change after reading through their newsletter and understanding what is involved in running an effort of this size. They do amazing work, the staff and volunteers are amazing and we always feel very fortunate to witness not only the animals, but the efforts of one man. Not to take anything away from the amazing volunteers because TWAS wouldn't survive without them, but Pat Craig is the epitome of "one person can make a difference".
I have had the pleasure of visiting and supporting The Wild Animal Sanctuary for 10 years.
The dedication of Pat Craig, the founder, and the entire staff and volunteers is incredible. No matter which person you talk with, the passionate feelings and care they provide all of the animals is incredible. My favorite visits have included watching the interaction of the staff with the animals. The love is heartwarming to see and hear.
My most favorite visit was being able to record Eddy, the black leopard, purring as he walk around his habitat.
I am so impressed by the scope of the Sanctuary, reaching out internationally to teach the world about the harms done to these beautiful wild creatures in captivity.
Too many do not understand the importance of balancing our awe and enjoyment of the spirits of these co-inhabitats of our world with their need for natural lives in the wild. They can teach us about our relationship to nature and how each of us can do our part to maintain balance on Earth, our Home, together.
I feel blessed to know about the work of the Sanctuary and am proud to support them by giving of my time and money to ensure they continue to serve us all in their work.
I have been a supporter of The Wild Animal Sanctuary for at lest 10 years and am endlessly impressed with the work they do. The limited staff and volunteers work tirelessly to help these animals and educate the public on the captive wildlife crisis. It is so nice to support a charity where all of the money goes directly to the cost without all of the memberships and administrative nonsense. Not to mention the sanctuary itself is a wonderful and peaceful place where you can feel the animals joy.
This is an outstanding organization! The founder Pat Craig is an incredible person who is dedicated to educating the public about the captive wild animal crisis and providing natural open, large-acreage habitats for rescued tigers, lions, wolves, bears and other large carnivores. The organization does an outstanding job communicating its mission, projects and rescues through its website and quarterly newsletters. I've been a donor for 4 years and visit the facility at least twice a year. It's always immaculate and well staffed with knowledgeable volunteers to provide additional information and the animals and the facility, as well as the captive wild animal crisis.
TWAS is a lot more than an animal sanctuary. It is a sanctuary for us to get out of the hectic day to day routine of taking care of 2 legged animals. I feel at peace when I am out there. Watching the animals in their safe and large habitats is very comforting. And to hear the music of the wolves is so beautiful it almost brings me tears. To how comfortable and happy all of the animals appear to be. I adopted Aztec 2 years ago and will continue to do so. He is a beautiful Timber wolf. :) I cannot say enough good things that TWAS does for all the animals. IF you haven't been - you need to go. Bring a lunch like I do as I am usually there for 3 to 4 hours. You will LOVE it and I am sure that you will leave knowing how you have helped them as well.
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LOVE, LOVE, LOVE the sanctuary. I am always amazed by the happiness of the animals residing there! I am so excited to see a facility that cares and takes care of these animals once "discarded". I just wish there were more facilities like this to help others. We will be back again and again. Looking forward to "adopting" a citizen of the Sanctuary.
The Wild Animal Sanctuary is completely tops in my book. I donate as much as i can afford to this organization. I visit the Sanctuary frequently and the good they do is so incredibly obvious. The animals are healthy happy and clearly at peace. TWAS provides dignity to animals that have unfortunately experienced horrific abuse. It is remarkable to me to see how quickly their rescues respond to the love and care they provide. They flourish so quickly! Pat and his team live humbly and dedicate their lives to these creatures. Their selflessness is inspiring to me. There is no question in my mind that every dollar I donate goes to the benefit of the rescued animals and therefore I am generous. I have the utmost respect for what they do and feel so fortunate that this wonderful facility is near me. If I could rate them 10 stars I would.
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I couldn't love this place more. Everyone from the staff members to the volunteers greet guests with enthusiasm and impressive knowledge. The animals look incredibly healthy and happy. It's tragic that humans put these magnificent creatures in a situation where they needed to be rescued, but it's heartening to see what Pat Craig and his team have done to ensure that these lovely beasts have the opportunity to peacefully live out their lives in this tremendous sanctuary.
I first visited this sanctuary many years ago and have been a regular visitor ever since. I admire the work that they do to make the lives of these great animals peaceful and happy. I regularly donate and know that they will put my donations to good use for care of the animals. Thank you to The Wild Animal Sanctuary for all that you do for the animals.
You can't say enough about this heartwarming charity which gives dignity, peace, and safety to so many horribly abused animals. We donate happily each month and we feel so strongly that they have become a part of our estate planning.
I love this place!! The animals look happy. You feel great supporting a place like this. So many animals don't recieve the quality of care that these people provide. Thanks for all the work that you guys do!! Much love!
I absolutely LOVE what The Wild Animal Sanctuary does for the beautiful animals. I enjoy each and every visit and learn something new each time. Such a wonderful place!
My husband and I visited The Wild Animal Sanctuary for the first time in Oct. 2015 for our 5th anniversary. We had an amazing time and were in awe of the many large animals they care for every day. The workers genuinely care for the animals and the mission of the organization. We hope to return many more times in the future.
I've been to the sanctuary twice; once with general admission and once for a special event dinner. The sanctuary is simply amazing. The facilities are one of a kind and the staff members are very knowledgeable. It is clear that the founder and director, Pat Craig, has a special place in his heart for the animals. From the beginning Pat knew that large carnivores needed more than what zoos were giving them. The animals are kept in acres of natural habitat and are not disturbed by visitors. Pat and every member of his staff care deeply for every single animal that lives at the sanctuary. In addition to housing the animals with wonderful accommodations, the sanctuary also goes to great lengths to rescue abused and neglected animals letting them live out their lives in wide open spaces with plenty of food and care. They travel far and wide to get these animals from horrendous conditions, provide them with necessary veterinary care, nutritious food and a natural habitat. In addition to my visits, I have also adopted a tiger named Mekka.
I first visited the Sanctuary in 2005. I knew I wanted to be a part of their family immediately. You can tell the amount of work and love goes into rescuing these large carnivores. Then trying to let them be comfortable and as wild as one can be when born in captivity. The mission here is to save every animal possible from a tragic ending. The change the laws to protect the wildlife takes a lot of work.
After getting my car and finishing my degree, I'm now a volunteer. I get to spend my weekends cleaning, feeding or educating. I can tell you first hand, this place as close to heaven as these beautiful creatures can get!
I have been a supporter for numerous years. I so strongly believe in them because they are true animal lovers, putting all donations and efforts toward the direct benefit of the animals before anything else. They work strongly toward educating the public and also assist other organizations when they can. Their expenses, other than for the direct care of the animals, are low and most of their staffing is volunteer. I have the utmost respect and admiration for the Craigs and their group.
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This is one of my most favorite places to visit....and a favorite charity of mine. It is so heartwarming to see these rescued animals looking so healthy and happy and safe. Pat Craig is such a wonderful man, and has surrounded himself with people who truly love these animals and what they do. I am glad he is received so much notice, especially since the Bolivian lion rescue, as he deserves it. And, as if running this sanctuary weren't enough, he is involved worldwide in helping others with their rescues.
As an active supporter, I would highly recommend The Wild Animal Sanctuary. Their continuous care and dedication to the animals in their facility is truly an inspiration.
I used to really believe in what the Animal Sanctuary did for animals. Until they decided to Elitist the facility to make it impossible for families that dont make $80,000 a year to attend.
By their very website, it would cost 250$ for my family to visit and enjoy the sanctuary. Which is a huge increase in their pricing from what it used to be.
They also stated that it was because the previous donations and volunteer work wasn't doing anything for the animals.
I can clearly tell you. Informing 20 cun scouts that the volunteer work they did at the 2015 Wild Animal Run did nothing for the animals was nothing less than heartbreaking to the boys, and heartless actions by this so called refuge.
There are numerous refuge's across the nation that do not demand a 50$ a pop "donation" in order to view the animals. And those same refuge's gladly accept and appreciate the volunteer work.
Best place ever! Not a zoo that caters to the public, but a sanctuary that loves & cares for animals that have been used & abused. Visiting here changed the way I view animals in captivity & in a way, changed my life. The animals are not put on display but live their lives in large habitats that can sometimes be seen from the walkways above. If I see animals when I visit, I'm happy; if I don't, I'm still happy because I know they are living as free a life as possible. Thank you, Wild Animal Sanctuary.
TWAS is awesome! They save all these wild animals and give them space, feed them and make sure they are enjoying life and they keep them healthy. I was there for at least 6 hours on my visit. Everyone was nice and the animals are so relaxed. Thank you for all that you do for these wonderful creatures! You ROCK!!! Roar!!!
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I visited TWAS for the first time back in April 2013. The staff/volunteers there are very nice and know a lot about the wild animals in there care. The animals were very happy and well cared for. The mile long walk way insures the animlas are not bothered by visitors. Everyone I know who has visited their sanctuary, loved it and all the hard work it takes to run a Wildlife animal sanctuary. Please vote for them!
This group does AMAZING things with these rescued animals. I visited it last year and was truly touched. I have since donated and will continue to do so to help them help these wild rescued animals. They R_O_C_K.
Also, I will never visit another zoo again.
Read Guero's story. that alone will help you understand the miracles they perform!
The Wild Animal Sanctuary is a great place to visit! No pacing behavior like in a zoo, just animals in large acreage habitats doing whatever they want.
I went to the sanctuary twice last summer, taking new people with me each time. I couldn't believe how the animals interacted and acted like animals should. They were fat and happy. The wolves displayed real wolf interaction between the alpha male and minor males. It was very interesting. The cats and bears had such large areas to roam, it was really impressive. And I couldn't believe they weren't chasing the myriad of rabbits that would scoot through the enclosures. I can't say enough good things about the Wild Animal Sanctuary! We need more people and places like this.
sanctuarydirector 01/11/2012
Thank you very much for the kind review. We are grateful for your support and for helping us make a difference in the lives of the animals!