There’s a new place for rescue animals to feel safe in Palm City, thanks to the American Humane Society. In April, the organization held a ribbon-cutting ceremony at a 15-acre site called the Sanctuary, and plans are underway to have the various services and facilities up and running by next summer.
Two rescue horses already call the sprawling property home. And in the coming year, it will become a haven for many dogs, cats, rabbits, birds, and livestock that have been rescued from shelters, natural disasters, and cruelty situations as they await reunification with their families or a new home. When necessary, animals can live out their remaining years at the Sanctuary, which will also house a center for service dog and national disaster response training.
The project is the vision of American Humane president and CEO Robin Ganzert. During the pandemic, Ganzert envisioned a serene sanctuary somewhere near her West Palm Beach home where paws, hooves, wings, fur, and feathers would be welcome. “The animal kingdom, domestic and wildlife, have always been near and dear to my heart,” she says. “Palm City was the perfect location, offering ample space to create a state-of-the-art sanctuary that could meet the needs of multiple species. Its location also allows for ease of access to regional disaster zones and communities in need.” Over the last decade, the American Humane Society has expanded its reach to 59 countries.
The American Humane Society purchased the Palm City property in the fall of 2023 and began transforming the site, thanks to the generous support of people like the organization’s board chair, John Payne, whose financial contributions allowed the building of a Betty White Healing Garden and bronze sculpture—a tribute to the late actress’ commitment to helping animals…