Barbara Bellows and Trina Hudson have always cared. For their entire lives, making sure to put others first ran through their blood. If it wasn’t people, it was animals. When they moved to Asheville, North Carolina, and saw a ripe 10-acre plot of land nestled in the foothills on the outskirts of the city, they knew that it would be the perfect place to realize a burgeoning dream. In the May of 2000, on the cusp of a mountain-country summer, the Animal Haven of Asheville was born. Decades later, it lives on strong through their dedication and their love. 

The Animal Haven is a sanctuary for abandoned, abused and neglected farm animals. Fenced-in meadows lined by a buffer of trees make this a paradise for animals whose lives were anguished and painful. Here, they can live out the journey of their lives – whether 22 hours or 22 years. The passion of Barbara, Trina and their troupe of willing volunteers keep them healthy and happy. No matter what it takes.