Our Objective..

A Vision for the Future

A new home isn’t just about more cages; it’s about better care and community connection. Our vision includes:

Health & Wellness Clinics: Providing affordable, accessible care for pets in our local community.
Public Education: A dedicated space to host workshops on responsible pet ownership and animal welfare.
Modern Veterinary Suites: On-site care to reduce stress for our residents and speed up their journey to a forever home.

Your investment is the foundation of this new beginning. Together, we can build a haven that reflects the love and compassion our animals deserve.

Why we need a new facility…

At Priest River Animal Rescue, our mission is to provide sanctuary and second chances. However, our current converted motel facility has reached its absolute limit. To continue saving lives and serving our community, we must address these critical challenges:

Overcoming Our Current Limitations

Expanding Our Capacity: Due to severe space constraints, we are currently forced to turn away 70% of dogs and 60% of cats who come to us in need. A new facility means we never have to say “no” to a life we could have saved.
Essential Infrastructure: Our current puppy isolation building lacks heat and hot water, making it unusable during the winter months. A modern, climate-controlled space will ensure we can provide year-round care for our most vulnerable arrivals.
Sustainability through “Critters”: By expanding the Critters Thrift Store, we project a 40% increase in sales, creating a steady stream of self-sustaining revenue to fund animal care.

Our Vision is Becoming Reality!

We are thrilled to share a monumental update in our journey toward a new home. The Bonner County Commissioners have officially granted final approval for our zone change! This critical milestone marks the successful completion of the first step in our relocation process.

What’s Next on the Horizon?

With the zoning hurdle behind us, we are moving full steam ahead into the next phase of development:

Finalizing the Property Purchase: We are securing the 2.5-acre lot off Highway 2, generously made possible by Debbie and John Vickers.
Permitting & Planning: Our team is currently working on the specific permits and architectural details required to break ground on our custom-built rescue.
A Rescue Built for Purpose: For years, we’ve operated out of a converted motel, but our mission has officially outgrown those walls. This new facility will provide the modern resources, climate-controlled environments, and expanded capacity necessary to save the lives of the 70% of dogs and 60% of cats we currently have to turn away.