Penderosa Rescue & Sanctuary

In the community of Willard NC is a quiet country retreat nestled on 63 acres of land called Penderosa Rescue and Sanctuary.

Penderosa Rescue & Sanctuary is committed to giving farm animals and horses of all breeds that have been mistreated, neglected, or undesired, a loving and healing home. Their intention is to offer them a safe space where they can heal and rebuild trust, accompanied by compassionate and rehabilitative care, until a loving permanent home becomes available; and if a home can’t be found they offer a lifetime sanctuary where they can pass away in peace and dignity in a compassionate and loving setting.
 
It had always been a dream of Kay Reece to create an Equine Rescue.  She had started on her own with horses Max and Star who she rescued in 2016, but they knew if this was going to become a reality they had to search for the perfect piece of land.  Before she and her husband purchased the property located at 256 Lamb Rd. there had been nothing there but a field of soybeans and a lone house.  In the year of 2018, everything fell into place like it was meant to be.  They closed on the house and land, built their first barn, and received their permit approval for non-profit status all in the same month.

They quickly discovered that other animals needed their help too.  Over time their farm grew to include a total of seven pastures with shelters and they are now a sanctuary for a total of 27 animals.  Today there are eight goats, nine horses, two steers, and eight barn cats.  At one time they even had rabbits and pigs.  All of whom were suffering from medical and age conditions, neglect, or abandonment.  Max and Star the very first horses to be rescued are now depicted on their logo.

Each animal has their own personality, and it takes a lot of love and attention to take care of them properly.  Quite often Camp Lejeune Marines, Fort Bragg Army soldiers, or retired Veterans will come to Penderosa.  Not only will they provide an extra hand but for many it is soul soothing.  They also work with Adults in the DWI program and with the Teen Court Program meeting their community service needs while learning valuable life lessons.

The same year they were established they built a beautiful rustic one-bedroom apartment above the barn with a balcony that overlooks the ranch.  It features all the comforts of home including access to a full kitchen, is pet friendly, and can sleep up to four people.  It’s the perfect getaway for visitors who are looking for a unique and relaxing overnight stay.

Tours can be arranged for any of their visitors for all ages whether they are staying the night or just wanting to spend the day.  They are an events venue for school field trips, birthdays, celebrations, and even weddings.  The farm also serves as a backdrop and event venue for many community events they host throughout the year.  They are adding an 1800 Square foot reception hall for indoor events that will include a small kitchen area and a serving bar; opening soon.  They even allow you to rent their cooker for a good old-fashioned pig-pickin’.

Penderosa Rescue and Sanctuary offers a safe haven for farm animals and humans alike in a quiet country atmosphere.  For more information visit them at www.penderosarescueandsanctuary.com or find them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/penderosarescue.  To book a stay in their cozy apartment look them up on Airbnb.