Understanding our bird-only policy
Learn why Barkers Feathered Friends Sanctuary focuses exclusively on birds and why we don't accept dogs or cats. Discover how this commitment ensures the best possible care for our feathered residents.
Why we don’t accept dogs or cats
At Barkers Feathered Friends Sanctuary, our mission and facilities are dedicated exclusively to the rescue, rehabilitation, and lifelong care of birds — including domesticated, farm, and non-migratory wild species. We do not accept dogs or cats because their care needs, housing requirements, and behavior are very different from those of birds. Our sanctuary is specifically designed to provide a safe, low-stress environment for feathered species, and mixing mammals and birds could compromise that safety and focus. By keeping our efforts centered on birds, we ensure every resident receives the specialized nutrition, medical care, and enrichment they need to thrive. If you are seeking help for a dog or cat, we recommend reaching out to a local animal shelter, humane society, or breed-specific rescue that can provide the right kind of care and support.
Who we’re trying to reach
At Barkers Feathered Friends Sanctuary, we aim to connect with people who share our compassion and commitment to the well-being of birds. We’re reaching out to: Bird lovers and adopters looking to provide safe, permanent homes for rescued or rehabilitated birds. Volunteers and caregivers who want to lend their time and skills to help with daily care, enrichment, and facility upkeep. Donors and sponsors who believe in supporting ethical, sustainable sanctuary work and want to help us expand our enclosures and rehabilitation programs. Community members and educators interested in learning more about bird care, conservation, and the importance of sanctuaries. People in need of surrender assistance for domesticated or non-migratory birds who can no longer remain in their current homes. Our goal is to build a caring community of people who want to make a difference — one feathered friend at a time.
What we hope visitors will do or understand
After reading this page, we hope visitors will understand our mission, focus, and the unique care we provide for birds in need. We want people to: Recognize that our sanctuary is dedicated exclusively to birds, including domesticated, farm, and non-migratory wild species. Understand why we do not accept dogs, cats, or other mammals, and how that focus ensures the best possible care for every bird we rescue. Feel inspired to support our work — through donations, volunteering, sponsoring a bird, or spreading awareness about responsible bird care. Know that every act of kindness — big or small — helps us continue providing safety, healing, and hope for our feathered friends. By sharing this understanding, visitors become part of our mission to protect, rehabilitate, and give second chances to birds who need them most.
In a nutshell
The most important thing we want people to know is that Barkers Feathered Friends Sanctuary is a bird-only facility. Our spaces, care routines, and expertise are all designed specifically for domesticated and non-migratory wild birds. We don’t accept dogs or cats because doing so would take resources and attention away from the birds who depend on us for specialized care and safe housing. By focusing solely on birds, we can give every feathered resident the best care, comfort, and compassion possible.