Recently, our rescue sent two of our beloved dogs, Luna and Rupert, to The Asher House in Salem, Oregon. When we shared the news on facebook, we received a number of public and private comments expressing concern about the legitimacy and welfare standards of the sanctuary. We were taken aback by the accusations because they differed so extremely from our own observations. But the allegations were troubling, nonetheless, especially since we had just entrusted two of our own beloved dogs to their care. So we reached out to Asher House and expressed our concern. Without hesitation they invited us back for a more complete tour, to include a behind-the-scenes look. We accepted the opportunity and made another 14-hour round trip to the sanctuary on March 4, 2025.
We spent almost five hours exploring the entire property, and what we found was nothing short of inspiring. Asher House is exactly as magical as it appears online. The 240 acres are beautifully maintained, the facilities are top-notch, and the staff is warmly attentive, animal focused, friendly and welcoming. We were allowed to look behind closed doors, peek around corners, and enter any building on the property. We looked at every area, from medical rooms to feeding stations, sleeping spaces and open pastures/stalls. We spent time with the different species in their designated areas—every single dog, cat, wolf hybrid, horse, alpaca, llama, pig, and cow is healthy, bright-eyed, and happily relaxed.
Yes, they have a ton of animals—far more than any “regular” rescue operation could handle. But it’s not too much for 40+ caregivers on 240 acres of land, with the best facilities money can buy. They are operating well within their capacity to provide excellent care. All enclosures are clean, safe, and full of thoughtful enrichment. Each animal receives personalized care, specialized diets, and medical care tailored to their needs. It was clear that the animals’ uniquely individual personalities are hono
Good morning from this very special sleepyhead! Mercy is feeling great, and has gained at least 7 pounds already.
UPDATE: Foster care found! ♥️
FOSTER NEEDED!
Female shi tzu
16-18lbs
Potty trained (uses doggy door)
Loves her belly rubbed
Loves to play with toys
Please call or text: 720-325-0095
UPDATE: Adopted!
Urgent need! Due to serious illness in his family, this little cutie needs a new home (or foster care) immediately. According to the owner he’s great with all other animals, potty trained, leash trained, etc. Not yet neutered, but we will have it done soon. Please call (541) 519-7387.
A follow up on this guy, since a number of people were concerned about him. He’s out of impound and VERY happy to be in foster care. Many thanks to a brand new foster volunteer for making it possible!
Peeking in at mama Lavender
Mama Sparky is workin’ round the clock!!
Please let our brave firefighters know just how much you appreciate them saving animals in distress. They brought us a young calico mama, whom they rescued and named Sparky (another calico mama, not Lavender from our recent posts).
Her babies were reported to have all died, but firefighters were able to save Sparky, who was understandably distressed. They brought her to us and she was placed with a foster volunteer who was bottle feeding half of the orphaned newborns that were also rescued from the fire.
Sparky was disoriented but relieved, immediately bonding with foster mom and seeking affectionate comfort. While the foster began gently suggesting the fragile newborns to their potential surrogate mom, the firefighters called with a PLOT TWIST! Three of Sparky’s own babies had been found, and were rushed into town to be reunited with their mama.
As they settled in together, foster mom sensed the right timing to directly introduce the four needy newborns into the love fest.
AND IT WORKED.
Mama Sparky now has seven babies: Coal, Halligan, Skidgen, Ash, Ember, Blaze, and Smokey. One big, happy family. All will be adoptable soon.
From the bottom of our hearts, thank-you to foster mom Tessa, for the time and intuition she devoted to this heartwarming outcome, and to the fire heroes who believed these lives were worth saving.
Update on the kittens rescued by firefighters.
❗️ H E L P ❗️FIRE EVACUEES - These are NOT adoptable, they are in immediate need of emergency care, just until the fire is contained enough for them to go home. Their owners are staying at the Red Cross shelter at the Nazarene church. They are currently in crates at the fairgrounds. Please help. Call or text 541-519-7387
UPDATE: we have a placement for the cat