Animal Sanctuaries Of The Hudson Valley & Catskills

There’s a quote that I’ve heard so many times it lives in my mind comfortably and completely rent-free, “a goal without a plan is only a wish.” While New Year resolutions always start with a wish of what we hope will lead to a better life, every life coach will tell you that in order to turn our wishes into realities we need specifics, objectives, a strategy. This year, I have an idea; I know we’re ready! We’re going to make our longing for a healthier and happier life a reality using my simple yet effective plan. It's a plan that involves fur and maybe some drool. The plan? Spend more time with animals!

I know what you’re thinking – Happier with animals? Sure, I’ll buy that – they’re fuzzy and cute. Healthier? Ok, well…how? I’ll save you the google search. Here are the facts: spending time with animals has been shown to increase people’s overall physical and social activity, decrease blood pressure, cholesterol levels, triglyceride (stored body fat) levels, cortisol (stress hormone) levels, and feelings of loneliness and anxiety. YES! I know! It’s almost too good to be true! The creatures that share our planet also lower levels of hormones and chemical compounds in our blood that can be dangerous to our mental AND physical health.

 

Here's Some Info From Actual Health Experts

So, to be healthier and happier, we need to spend more quality time with some rabbits, puppies and maybe a ferret or a teacup pig. But what if we don’t have a pet? What if we can’t have one? Don’t you worry – I have solutions. Whether you’re someone who is not ready, willing, or able to own a fluffy pal, there are fluffy pals hoping you’ll come spend time with them at their current place of residence. Here's the plan (with options): visit, volunteer, foster, or adopt, an animal asap. The animals at these local rescues and sanctuaries are itching to get the scratches that will simultaneously lower your stress levels. Read on to find out how to get connected with these organizations and cheers to being healthier and happier in 2023!

Leaning towards adoption or starting your own sanctuary? Skip to the bottom of the page, where we’ve listed some currently available properties with picture-perfect pastures, yards, and cozy cat corners.

 

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Animal Sanctuaries In The Hudson Valley

I love visiting and volunteering at sanctuaries. First, because exploring the expansive grounds and carrying hay bales makes me feel physically fit; second, because like most volunteers, caring for and showing love to mistreated animals, makes me feel like I’m doing some good in the world. It feels good to do good. So, lets put on our best Catskills flannel and overalls (an optional, but strongly encouraged wardrobe choice) and head to one of my three favorite sanctuaries where we can meander the land, give some pets, chill with cows in the pasture, and brush bunnies! You’ll feel fit and fine in no time.   

 

 

 

 

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Animal Shelters In The Hudson Valley

Get healthier and happier at one of the animal rescues in the Hudson Valley below. Have questions like, “what kind of animals can I adopt? What is fostering? What does volunteering at a rescue entail?” As always, your local expert (me!) has the answers!

Adopting: the rescue organizations listed below have a range of animals ready for adoption, from dogs and cats to hamsters and farmed animals (buy one of our listings with pasture - link it to listings below- and adopt a horse or 3!)

Fostering: If the commitment of adopting is daunting, consider fostering. Fostering is temporary, in-home caretaking of a pet until its forever home is found. It benefits the pet, rescue, and you. The dog or cat gets to experience a stress-free and loving environment, the rescue has more space for additional animals, and you get all the benefits of having a pet to cuddle and play with without the long-term physical and financial responsibility. The average stay in a foster home is about 2 months, although many experience the “foster fail” and end up adopting their foster pet because they can’t bear to be without them!

Volunteering – choose this route if you want to spend more time with animals but have your home to yourself. Primarily, volunteers interact with adoptable pets by giving them exercise, attention, and socialization. It helps reduce stress and strengthen their trust with people. Some rescues also look for volunteers to run fundraising events, education programs, and run social media. Take a look at Joy Kay (@adoptingdogs) on Tiktok – he’s a volunteer!

 

 

Here are the Rescue Organizations In The Area:

• Putnam Humane Society – Carmel, NY
• Animal Rescue Foundation (ARF): Beacon, NY
• CATS - Mid-Hudson Animal Aid – Beacon, NY
• Catskill Animal Rescue – Ferndale, NY
• AnimalKind – Hudson, NY
• Dutchess County SPCA – Hyde Park, NY
• Paws Unlimited – Kingston, NY
• Ulster County SPCA – Kingston, NY
• Pets Alive – Middletown, NY
• Take Me Home Pet Rescue – Milton, NY
• Hudson Valley Animal Rescue And Sanctuary – Poughkeepsie, NY
• Mount Haven Animal Rescue – Stone Ridge, NY
• Hudson Valley SPCA – Vails Gate, NY
• Humane Society Of Blooming Grove – Washingtonville, NY

 

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A Place Of Your (And Their) Own

Our four-legged friends deserve country retreats! Buy a pasture, buy a home with a fenced yard, or buy a house with cozy nooks, windows, and sills for a feline to sunbathe on or to get in some avian espionage.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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