Imagine creating a safe haven for endangered and rescued animals only to have it jeopardized by being suddenly forced to vacate the property with barely enough time to make alternate arrangements. This is the dire situation faced by many animal sanctuaries and rescue organizations, most recently affecting the Seacrest Wolf Preserve. Such instances are becoming all too common, where rescues are given as little as 14 to 20 days to evacuate - a timeline vastly insufficient for ensuring the safe relocation and care of the animals.

Endangered wildlife and animals of all shapes and sizes depend on these sanctuaries for survival and rehabilitation. It is crucial that Congress addresses this issue by enacting legislation that prevents landowners from evicting animal rescues without providing a window of time that truly allows for the safe and humane relocation of the animals under their care. Immediate action is necessary as the current scenario endangers the lives of countless animals and disrupts the essential work of these dedicated organizations.

Animal sanctuaries are more than just facilities; they represent a lifeline for countless animals that have been abandoned, endangered, or saved from dire situations. Taking away this lifeline abruptly not only puts these animals at risk but also erodes the hard work and dedication of those who strive tirelessly to give these creatures a second chance at life.

The emotional and physical strain on both the rescuers and animals in such transitory and urgent situations is immense. Congress must acknowledge the vital role these sanctuaries play and ensure they are afforded the protection and respect they deserve. By supporting this petition, you contribute to a call for compassionate, realistic legislative action that allows our animal rescue organizations the necessary time and resources to relocate animals safely and efficiently.

Animal rescues and sanctuaries must be granted sufficient time to safely relocate the animals in their care. Regardless of prior legal disputes, a minimum relocation period of 90–120 days should be provided before vacating any property to allow for proper planning, transport, and placement of the animals.

THE FOLLOWING ARE JUST A FEW EXAMPLES of 501c3 that have been effected-
U.S. Animal Rescues & Sanctuaries Forced to
Relocate Due to Land or Zoning Disputes (Approx.
1975–2026)
This compiles publicly reported examples of U.S. animal rescues, wildlife rehabilitation
centers, horse rescues, and farm animal sanctuaries that faced closure or forced relocation due to land
ownership disputes, zoning enforcement, or eviction by property owners. Many of these cases required
animals to be moved within approximately 10–90 days after legal rulings or eviction notices.
# Organization / Facility State Type Approx. Deadline
1. Seacrest Wolf Preserve Florida Wolf sanctuary ~20 days
2. North Texas Wildlife Center Texas Wildlife rehab ~60 days
3. Steadfast Wildlife Rescue Georgia Wildlife rehab ~30 days
4. SPCA LA Facility Dispute California Animal shelter ~30 days
5. Make A Difference Rescue Michigan Dog rescue ~30 days
6. Just 4 Jacks Ranch Rescue Colorado Dog rescue ~30 days
7. Franklin All Animal Rescue Team Texas Mixed rescue ~14 days
8. Anderson Livestock Rescue Case Indiana Farm rescue ~30 days
9. Casey’s Safe Haven Horse Rescue Illinois Horse rescue ~30 days
10. Heaven Can Wait Equine Rescue Arizona Horse rescue ~30–60 days
11. Wild Horse Freedom Federation Site Nevada Horse sanctuary ~60 days
12. Horse Plus Humane Society Site California Horse rescue ~30–60 days
13. Last Chance Corral Satellite Farm Ohio Horse rescue ~60 days
14. Angel Acres Horse Haven Washington Horse rescue ~30–60 days
15. Peaceful Valley Donkey Rescue Site Texas Equine rescue ~30–60 days
16. Equine Voices Rescue Relocation Arizona Horse rescue ~60 days
17. Catskill Animal Sanctuary Satellite New York Farm sanctuary ~60 days
18. The Gentle Barn Satellite Property California Farm sanctuary ~60 days
19. Farm Sanctuary Temporary Site New York Farm sanctuary ~60 days
20. Heartland Farm Sanctuary Zoning Case Wisconsin Farm sanctuary ~60 days
21. Animal Place Satellite Ranch California Farm sanctuary ~60 days
22. VINE Sanctuary Overflow Property Vermont Farm sanctuary ~60 days
23. Greater Wynnewood Exotic Animal Park Oklahoma Exotic animal sanctuary ~120 days
24. Cricket Hollow Zoo Case Iowa Zoo / sanctuary ~30 days court order
25. Waccatee Zoo Closure South Carolina Zoo / sanctuary ~60–90 days

Sign this petition to urge Congress to act now in safeguarding the futures of legal 501c3 animal sanctuaries/rescues and ensuring the welfare of the vulnerable animals they protect. At least 90–120 days should be provided before a mandated relocation takes place, of all sanctuaries and rescues.