River's Wish Animal Sanctuary

River's Wish Animal Sanctuary is located on 65 acres in Spokane County and is dedicated to helping animals in need.  The sanctuary is named for River, an inspiring dog whose love encouraged us to do more.  River himself was a shelter dog and our constant companion. After a yearlong courageous battle with cancer, we sadly said goodbye to River in 1999.  River’s Wish offers sanctuary to rabbits, dogs, cats, goats, horses, donkeys, pigs, chickens, turkeys and more.  It is the dream of River’s Wish, that every creature is able to live a full and joyful life.

We have been in operation for more than 25 years and became accredited with The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS) as of January 29, 2021. Since 1994 we have facilitated the rescue of over 5,600 animals. This has been accomplished through our hands-on rescue, community networking and referral, and working with other agencies to save lives, and assisting animals and community members in need.

In 1995, we joined a local pet rescue group and our eyes were opened to the plight of animals in need.  We have since fostered and placed thousands of dogs, cats and rabbits. We expanded to help goats, horses and other animals in need.  In 2004, we incorporated as a non-profit animal sanctuary.

Our humane education program, ‘Compassion for Animals’ allows people to meet animals first hand and puts a story, personality and face behind the abstract notion of their species.  Our hope is that compassion will decide the choices and direction humanity makes.

Caring for the animals at River's Wish requires immense amounts of time and money.  Your help makes it possible for us to help animals in need. If you would like to make a tax-deductible donation, you can do so via PayPal or by mailing in your donation.

The goal of River’s Wish is to provide those in our care with permanent and loving homes. We offer educational outreach both on and off site. We are a 501c3 non-profit organization. All donations are tax deductible. We also accept donations through Spokane County United Way. (Please be sure to indicate your gift is for River's Wish.)