We are a small non-profit animal welfare group located in East Asheville on a ten acre sanctuary. We started Animal Haven of Asheville in 1999 because we saw a need in Western North Carolina for farm animal rescue. Area shelters were unable to humanely house farm animals, through no fault of their own and many animal control agencies were hesitant to pursue cruelty cases involving farm animals because of no place to house them while it went through the court system. We currently care for over 100 animals from dogs and cats to pot belly pigs, geese, rabbits, sheep, goats, domestic pigs, ducks and turkeys. We receive no city, county or state funding and are run by volunteers ( 30 - 45). We operate a thrift shop at our sanctuary with items donated from the public and all money directly benefitting the animals. We have an extensive humane education program involving tours and/or hands on with the animals-helping feed, clean habitats, walk dogs etc. From pre-school age to college, many groups come out on a regular basis for community service and a great and new learning experience. In addition , we work in conjunction with The Swannanoa Women's Correctional Facility. For the past 4 and 1/2 years, "The New Leash On Life" program has allowed over 70 dogs to get a second chance in life. Inmates at the facility train 2 dogs, provided by Animal Haven, basic obedience, crate training, house breaking, and socialization skills over an 8 week period. These dogs, then graduate complete with pomp and circumstance to a forever home. Animal Haven then provides 2 more dogs to the program. This program is not only beneficial to the dogs but to the inmates as well. Increased morale and less grievances are just a few of the benefits evident at the facility. Animal Haven has also worked with the local chapter of Meals on Wheels for the past 7 years. We donate dog and cat food to this agency so that senior citizens are able to keep their beloved pet which in many cases is the only companion they have.
We are currently serving over 75 senior citizens in Buncombe County.
