Since 2015
Saving Animals By Giving Second Chances
Welcome to Ferrets and Friends Sanctuary! We are a small, locally-run, 501(c)(3) non-profit sanctuary based in New Jersey, dedicated to providing lifelong care for animals in need. Our primary focus is on ferrets and senior dogs, many of whom are considered unadoptable due to age, medical conditions, or behavioral challenges. These animals may have been overlooked by others, but we believe they all deserve a chance to live out their days in a loving, supportive environment.
At Ferrets and Friends, we pride ourselves on offering a permanent, safe haven for animals that need more than just a temporary foster home. Whether it’s due to a serious medical condition, behavioral issues, or simply the challenges that come with old age, we step in and provide the necessary care to give these animals the best quality of life. Often, this involves extensive veterinary treatment, especially for exotics and senior animals who are more prone to complex health issues. The costs of this care are significant, but we believe it’s the right thing to do, and we are committed to meeting the needs of every animal who comes through our doors.
What Drives Us
Our Mission
At Ferrets and Friends Sanctuary, our mission is to provide lifelong care and a safe, loving home for ferrets, senior dogs and other animals who are unadoptable due to age, medical conditions, or behavioral challenges. As a small 501(c)(3) non-profit, we are committed to offering these animals the veterinary care, comfort, and support they need, no matter the cost. Through community involvement, education, and ongoing support, we strive to create a compassionate environment where every animal can live out their days in peace and dignity.
What Drives Us
Our Vision
Ferrets and Friends Sanctuary aims to create a safe place for animals to live out their lives, providing medical care, shelter, nutrition, and love for the duration of their lives. With a focus on senior animals, we provide care for animals least likely to find forever homes or rescue placement.
As we grow and become more secure with funding, we hope to expand our support with community resources like assisting with vet care for seniors with senior animals, providing essential and preventative care for animals in low income areas, and opening up a farm sanctuary. Check out our Meet the Rescue page to learn more about some of the animals we’ve rescued. And follow along as we make a difference together!
Meet the rescues
Make a Donation
Contact US
Save a Life
Why Support Us?
Rescue & Rehabilitation
We take in abandoned, neglected, and surrendered animals, providing them with medical care, proper nutrition, and a loving environment.
Experienced, Compassionate Care
Our team has extensive knowledge of ferret and senior dog health, behavior, and enrichment, ensuring each animal receives specialized attention.
Forever Homes & Sanctuary Care
While some animals find loving adopters, others with special needs stay in our sanctuary for lifelong care.
Education & Advocacy
We educate the public on proper care, responsible ownership, and the unique needs of ferrets, dogs, and other small animals to ensure they live happy, healthy lives.
100% Donor-Funded
Every dollar goes directly to food, veterinary care, and supplies, helping us save and improve more lives.
Team
Meet The Team
Kelli Thompson
Owner & Founder
Kelli has been working independently on this mission for almost a decade. As her rescue work grew and it became evident how many animals needed this help, she knew she had to act and create a non-profit to help expand these rescue efforts to a larger scale. A long time animal lover and vegan, it wasn’t a surprise animals have enveloped such a large part of her life (and heart).
Cherise Daly
Board Member
The strong woman behind Vegan In NJ, a pillar of our community. Cherise unites people with a love for food, activism, and animals. She provides a safe and loving environment for people and small businesses, organizes countless volunteer days and fundraisers for so many local rescues, all while raising an amazing young son to follow in her footsteps. She’s the definition of Wonder Woman and we’re glad to have such a force on our board.
Adria Wilson
Board Member
The amazing owner behind A Plus Truffles, a vegan chocolate company dedicated to creating exquisite, plant-based bonbons. She’s passionate about supporting animal welfare, which is why she’s proud to be a part of the Ferrets and Friends board. Their mission to help animals in need aligns perfectly with our core values.