About
Providing Lifelong Care for Farm Animals in Need
Our Origin Story
What began in 2011 as a private farm opening its gates to special-needs animals soon grew into Virginia Donkey Rescue (VDR) in 2014. As the need for responsible placement and care increased, so did our commitment—expanding from a small, personal effort into a more structured rescue operation.
In 2017, VDR was absorbed by the nation’s largest donkey rescue, where we operated for nearly eight years. During that time, we helped more than 2,000 donkeys, along with many other farm animals who arrived alongside them. This experience provided both scale and perspective—deepening our understanding of intake, rehabilitation, and the long-term realities of animal care.
In 2025, we founded Virginia Farm Animal Sanctuary, returning to a locally focused and intentional model: true sanctuary. Today, VFAS provides a permanent home for farm animals in need—where donkeys and their barnyard companions can live out their lives in peace, safety, and dignity, supported by a community committed to their lifelong care.
Our Mission
Virginia Farm Animal Sanctuary is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit providing lifelong sanctuary and compassionate care to farm animals in need of a permanent home.
Our Focus
Our priority is providing responsible placement for farm animals who have been pets—especially those who are aging, have medical needs, or require a higher level of care—as well as supporting Animal Control and similar agencies when safe, appropriate placement options are limited. In doing so, we also offer owners peace of mind during times of transition.
We believe these animals deserve stability, proper nutrition, veterinary care, safe shelter, companionship, and dignity throughout their lives. Every animal who comes to VFAS is welcomed as a permanent resident.
