5 Things About Reservation Rescue You Might Not Know
Every rescue tells a deeper story. Here's a glimpse into what makes our work different.
1. Not Just Dogs and Cats
We care for fawns, horses, ducks and even guinea pigs. On the reservation, every animal counts.
2. Most Have Never Seen a Vet
Animals arrive sick, injured, and unvaccinated. Vet care is far and expensive, but we still show up.
3. The Calls Never Stop
Orphaned litters. Injured strays. Wildlife in trouble. We’re the only call many families can make in a emergency situation .
4. We’re 100% Volunteer-Run
No staff. No salary. Just regular people rescuing with heart and grit.
We operate without paid staff or a full shelter building. Just passion.
5. Rooted in Respect
In Lakota ways, all life is sacred. We honor that by rescuing with compassion, cultural respect, and a commitment to dignity in every life we touch.
What Does it Cost to Care For Our Rescue Animals?
Approximate expenses as they fluctuate with product and gas costs:
$3.33 dog food / per dog per day
$2.09 cat food / per cat per day
$0 food / per horse per day
$95.00 for average of 180 miles round trip to rescue and relocate animals
$70.00 for gas to veterinarians nearest vet? = 70 miles!
next closest? = 120 miles!
$390 for veterinary care per dog
Whats New
Help Us Bring the Cat Trailer Home
A generous supporter has donated a 30-ft trailer to transform into part of our sanctuary.
A dedicated space to house rescued cats who need peace away from dogs, some of whom aren’t cat-friendly. A skilled volunteer contractor has offered to renovate it at no cost, turning it into a warm, safe cat area.
Now we just need to get it here.
We’re raising $5,700 to transport the trailer from New York to our shelter in South Dakota.
We’re excited to launch our new personalized cultural tours on Pine Ridge Reservation!
These unique experiences are guided by local Native residents and offer a powerful way to connect with the land, history, and traditions of the Lakota people.
Highlights include immersive storytelling sessions and exclusive hikes through rarely seen parts of the Badlands. Led by experienced local guides who share their cultural knowledge and personal connections to the land. Each tour is customized to your interests and directly supports animal welfare efforts in the community. By joining us, you’re not just exploring—you’re helping make a difference.
Email us to learn more information and how to schedule your tour. More info and special offers coming soon
Since our first day of operation, White Owl Sanctuary has been offering a varied selection of products and merchandise to our family. Sometimes it’s the most ordinary products that can have the biggest impact on the daily lives of the animals we serve, and our commitment to improving the animal welfare across the reservation. Browse our products and get in touch with any questions.
Other Ways You Can Help?
Animal Food Bank Support
Helping animals by helping the people who love them
Our Animal Food Bank provides emergency feed, kibble, and supplies to community members in need.
We believe that by helping families care for their animals at home, especially during hard times, we can prevent unnecessary surrenders and suffering.
If you need help, or want to donate, send feed, or contact us directly. click the links below.
Help care for the abandoned stray and abused animals on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation
Your Generosity may take many forms:
Become a Valued member
Join Our Family Today- Become a monthly donor and get exclusive deal on our products. You can be happy knowing you are making a difference in supporting our cause. You can take pride in the fact you are changing the lives of many across one of the nations most disadvantaged places.
Join Our Oyate Today
One of our missions is to fight animal cruelty and protect animal rights through advocacy, education and rescue efforts.
Working together, we are involved in many initiatives promoting respect and humane treatment of all animals.
Words From The Founder
A Note from Our Executive Director and co-founder
Since 2014, our Animal Welfare Organization has been dedicated to caring for and promoting the rights of animals through numerous initiatives. Our main goal is to educate and improve the treatment of animals around the Pine Ridge Reservation.
We believe in a world where the lives of animals are respected, and they are free from cruelty and suffering. Our work brings people together in order to create the changes needed to protect animals.
Co-founder, Executive Director and Operator, Calvin Red Owl III, pictured here along with Skye- the second oldest resident of the White Owl Sanctuary!
We are so happy you’re interested in getting involved with our work here at White Owl Sanctuary. There are so many ways for you to help, and we truly appreciate each and every effort. By lending your support, you’ll become a valuable part of our Animal Welfare Organization and help to strengthen our operations.
The more people get involved, the stronger we are. Check out how you can help today.