450+ Animals. One Home.
Zebras, horses, goats, pigs, tortoises, chickens, ducks, rabbits, birds, and more. Every one of them stays for life.
Odessa Animal Sanctuary is home to over 450 rescued animals across more than a dozen species. Animals arrive from roadside zoos, breeders, hoarding situations, owner surrenders, and animal control. None are adopted out. None are transferred. Every animal that comes to the sanctuary stays for life.
Our zebras were rescued from roadside zoos and private owners who could no longer care for them. Zee, our most well-known resident, spent years confined to a small cage before finding his forever home here.
From Paso Finos to miniature paint horses, our horses come from backgrounds of neglect, abandonment, and breeder rejection. Many arrived malnourished and untrusting. With time and daily care, they have become some of the friendliest animals on the property.
Our goats are some of the most social animals at the sanctuary. Many were surrendered as "outgrown" pets or rescued from overcrowded situations. They greet every visitor and are always first in line at feeding time.
Pot-bellied pigs and farm pigs alike find their way to us. The most common story: someone bought a "mini pig" that grew to 200 pounds. Others come from hoarding situations or failed farms. They are smart, affectionate, and surprisingly clean.
Our cattle include bulls, cows, and steers rescued from breeders and slaughter operations. Scotty, our beloved 2,000-pound bull, lived at the sanctuary for 11 years before passing in May 2025. These gentle giants are among the most calm residents on the property.
Our Sulcata tortoises can live up to 180 years. Most come to us because their owners didn't realize how large they would grow. Despite what people think, these tortoises move fast when they want to. They love salads. No dressing, of course.
Our poultry flock includes chickens, ducks, and roosters rescued from factory farms, backyard operations, and animal control. They roam freely during the day and return to their coops at night.
Domestic rabbits are one of the most abandoned animals in the country. Ours come from overcrowded rescues, Easter "gifts" that were no longer wanted, and owner surrenders. They have dedicated shelters and plenty of room to hop around.
We care for a variety of birds including parrots, cockatoos, and other exotic species. Many were surrendered by owners who underestimated the 50+ year lifespan and complex needs of these intelligent animals.
Come Meet Them
Book a private tour and spend two hours with the animals. Feed them, hear their stories, and see what a real sanctuary looks like.