What Types of Animals Come to Backbone Animal Sanctuary?
At our sanctuary, we welcome animals from diverse backgrounds. Some are rescued from shelters, while others come through our partner rescues or word-of-mouth surrenders. Occasionally, we also care for animals that have been abandoned on our property. Additionally, we provide temporary housing for pet owners facing housing challenges, ensuring their beloved animals remain safe and secure. Backbone Sanctuary currently cares for mini-[pigs, goats, mini-horses, alpacas, llamas, chickens, peacocks, pigeons, ferrets, dogs, cats, sugar gliders, chinchillas, rabbits, tortoises and more.
Our animals
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Ygore
Ygore is a 26 year old dove. Yes, you read that right! Ygore is 26 years old and came to the Sanctuary after his previous owner passed away from old age. Ygore loves to be out and about and also enjoys company of the parakeets in the bird room.
Storm and Gambit
Storm and Gambit came from Noco Humane after their owner realized they were a lot of work. They love to run around during supervised playtime and run a muck! They are 4 years old, which in ferret years means they are entering the senior stage of their life.
Tschuss
Tschuss is a handsome Siamese mix who came to the Sanctuary from a family in Noco who realized they could not care for him. He had an adoption fall through and became a permanent resident at the Sancturary. You can catch him taking naps next to his best bud Berlin.
Fiona & Dumbledore
Fiona and Dubmbledore came from a family in Minnesota who reached out to the Sanctuary and didn't realize the cost and time of owning chinchillas. These adorable little guys lived in a cage much too small for them, they came in with mites and developed behavioral issues (Fiona chews her fur). They have now been rehabed and love to have playtime out of their cage and are happiest when they have apple sticks to chew on.
Labubu
Labubu is a spunky 4-year-old Cocker Spaniel. Prior to arriving at the Sanctuary, Labubu had been surrendered twice. He LOVES to chase balls. Labubu requires monthly medication for his dry eye condition, steroids for his allergies and a prescription diet.
Ivan
Ivan is a one year old mini-horse who came from an auction. Ivan was very skittish when he first arrived. With love and patience Ivan is much more confident. Ivan's favorite pastimes include galloping when he gets the zoomies and taking treats from visitors, especially now that he is gelded.
Bob
Bob is a one year old alpaca. He came to the Sanctuary in pretty rough shape, with lesions on his face, and his ears frostbitten. Since arriving he has been gelded and is constantly on guard, protecting the alpaca and warning of any intruders. You can find him chomping on hay.
Laverne
Laverne is a 10 year old pot-bellied pig, who is full of sass. She was surrendered by her owners to Hog Haven Rescue and then came to the Sanctuary. She loves to lay down and have her belly rubbed...as long as it is on HER terms...and she may change her mind at any moment.
Don Diablo
Don't let his cute face fool ya. Don Diablo likes to keep things spicy! Don Diablo arrived to us from a livestock auction. Since being gelded he has become less spicy-but still packs some heat. His favorite activities include standing guard of his fellow alpaca.
Mala Santa (top)
The first ferret to arrive at the Sanctuary, Mala Santa is a sweet and gentle soul. In her advanced age, Mala Santa likes to get out and play, but demands her nap schedule not be messed with.
Becky G.
Becky is our resident (forever) baby goat. She was abandoned and brought to the Sanctuary at just 7 weeks of age. Since then she has grown in confidence and is super-social, Becky loves playing...especially with the big dogs at the Sanctuary.
Eloisa
Eloisa is our sweet mix-breed rabbit. She loves to be brushed and is very calm. While she enjoys her 10 x 6 indoor enclosure, she also loves to spend time in her outdoor enclosure and catch some breeze.
Meet Blink! His Legacy Lives Forever
Meet Blink, a remarkable 12-year-old Cocker Spaniel with a heartwarming story that truly embodies resilience and love. Blink had faced more than his fair share of challenges, having had two previous owners who sadly passed away, leaving him in need of a new home. When he arrived at our sanctuary, he was in poor condition: suffering from a painful ear infection, deaf, and with three pounds of matted fur. He also had cherry eye and dry eye, requiring special care.
Despite his rough start, Blink quickly adjusted to his new surroundings and began to shine. His sweet and affectionate nature won the hearts of everyone he met. It was impossible not to fall in love with him. Blink brought joy and warmth to our sanctuary, reminding us all of the power of love and companionship.
However, our time with Blink was bittersweet. He was diagnosed with hemangiosarcoma, a serious condition that altered our plans. Yet, we were determined to make his remaining months the best they could be. With plenty of love, attention, and enrichment, Blink thrived in our spacious yard, where he enjoyed playing and basking in the sun. Surrounded by caring friends, he truly felt at home.
Blink's journey is a testament to the resilience of animals and the profound impact of compassion. Though his time with us was limited, he filled our lives with joy and taught us the importance of cherishing every moment. At our sanctuary, Blink will always be remembered as a beloved member of our family, and his story serves as a reminder of the love that can be shared, even in the face of adversity.
