Tiverton's West Place Animal Sanctuary has been awarded a $30,000 grant to support its Animal Nutritional, Medical and Enrichment Program. The organization provides shelter and rehabilitation for a variety of rescued livestock, equine and wildlife, including many that are injured, disabled or suffering from abuse or neglect. 

Executive director Wendy Taylor, who founded what has become the region's largest animal sanctuary, said the funds will be put to good use.

“Our animals require more than a dozen types of commercial and naturally grown food," she said. "We provide a variety of nutritional supplements as well as acres of rotational grazing. Though we also grow vegetables and fruits on property for our rescues, we cannot supply nearly enough food without this support."

West Place shelters more than 100 farm animal rescues at any given time. The care includes food and supplements, medical care and veterinary visits, daily examinations, treatments, medicines, surgeries and health services such as shearing, hoof care, teeth trimming and skin conditioning. For its rescue efforts, West Place works closely with animal control officers, police departments and other rescue organizations. 
The funding is among $550,000 in grants offered to animal welfare groups across Rhode Island by the charitable Rhode Island Foundation. The money will support a range of uses including low-cost vet care for pets in low-income households, educational programs and caring for rescued farm animals. 

“The delight that pets bring to our lives carries over into our own health and well-being. Keeping pets healthy and preparing animals for adoption are just more ways the Foundation helps Rhode Islanders lead healthier lives,” said David N. Cicilline, the Foundation’s president and CEO.

“We could not offer this help without the generous support of the donors who establish funds with us for this purpose. Their generosity – together with the dedication of our grantees – is improving the quality of animal care in Rhode Island.”