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The Open Sanctuary Podcast

The Open Sanctuary Podcast

Written by: The Open Sanctuary Project
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Do you work at an animal sanctuary or rescue? Is it your dream to start one? Join the staff of The Open Sanctuary Project as we have accessible conversations about some of the many important topics affecting sanctuaries and compassionate animal care, including species-specific guidance and sanctuary logistics, staff and volunteer support, governance considerations, fundraising and budgeting, public outreach, and effective humane education strategies! For more information and to access our extensive free resource library, including how-tos, courses, free tools, templates, and downloads, check out OpenSanctuary.org! Questions, comments, or topic requests? Reach out via the form at OpenSanctuary.org/contact Want to support our work with a donation? Head to OpenSanctuary.org/donation2023 Economics Management Management & Leadership
Episodes
  • 62 - Fire Safety At Your Animal Sanctuary
    May 28 2026

    Senior Advisor Tara and Nonprofit Specialist Julia discuss a concerning but critical topic: fire safety at animal sanctuaries, a "stuff of nightmares" scenario we believe is essential for every caregiver to confront. We examine the sobering statistics on structure fires and common causes such as electrical issues and spontaneous hay combustion. We also share practical mitigation steps—from removing flammable cobwebs to coordinating with local fire departments—and emphasize the importance of practicing evacuation drills. Stick with us to get informed and protect your residents and caregivers!

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    This Episode's Referenced Open Sanctuary Project Resources:

    • Fire Safety At Your Animal Sanctuary | The Open Sanctuary Project

    • Creating An Effective Set Of Contingency Plans For Your Animal Sanctuary | The Open Sanctuary Project

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    You can learn more about our organization here!

    You can send us a question, comment, or topic idea here!

    Want more Open Sanctuary Content? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram!

    Want to support our nonprofit's work? Donate here!

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    24 mins
  • 61 - Nonprofit, or not? A Conversation With The Microsanctuary Resource Center
    May 12 2026

    We're very happy to offer a conversation, hosted by the Microsanctuary Resource Center, with Nonprofit Specialist Julia on the pros and cons of nonprofit status for animal organizations. In it, MRC staff Alastor and Bird discuss with Julia some of the considerations that come into play when deciding whether to go nonprofit!

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    This Episode's Referenced Open Sanctuary Project Resources:

    • Microsanctuary Resource Center Website
    • Starting A Nonprofit Organization For Animal Sanctuaries In The United States | The Open Sanctuary Project
    • Weighing The Costs And Benefits Of Nonprofit Status | The Open Sanctuary Project
    • A Suggested Governance Curriculum For Your Animal Organization | The Open Sanctuary Project

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    You can learn more about our organization here!
    You can learn more about the Microsanctuary Resource Center here!

    You can send us a question, comment, or topic idea here!

    Want more Open Sanctuary Content? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram!

    Want to support our nonprofit's work? Donate here!

    Show More Show Less
    43 mins
  • 60 - Helping Downed Cows At Your Animal Sanctuary
    Apr 24 2026

    Senior Advisor Tara and Nonprofit Specialist Julia discuss how caregivers can best prepare for a scenario in which a resident cow cannot stand. In this situation, time is of the essence, so having a plan in place is key, as is understanding what to look for when assessing a cow resident who may be having difficulty standing.

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    This Episode's Referenced Open Sanctuary Project Resources:

    • When Cows Can't Stand: Understanding Causes And Making Sure You Are Prepared To Help | The Open Sanctuary Project
    • Observation: An Important Caregiving Tool | The Open Sanctuary Project
    • The Caregiver's Guide To Developing Your Observation Skills | The Open Sanctuary Project
    • Daily Observation For Cow Resident Health And Well-Being

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    You can learn more about our organization here!

    You can send us a question, comment, or topic idea here!

    Want more Open Sanctuary Content? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram!

    Want to support our nonprofit's work? Donate here!

    Show More Show Less
    34 mins
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