Little Orphans Animal Rescue in Cornville is facing the effects of the rising cost of animal food.
The shelter was officially recognized as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in 2008, but the property has been in owner Nancy Nenad’s family for over 40 years, and Nenad has been bringing animals home since she was a little kid.
“My parents were my best friends and they were very passionate, especially my father,” said Nenad. “We worked together in this place for 46 years. It’s still going and sometimes it’s very hard.”
The rescue takes in any unwanted animals, from dogs, chickens and pigs to a zebra. They are currently caring for around 200 animals combined at the shelter and at another property in Phoenix.
Nenad houses a variety of tropical birds, including one cockatoo that is 67 years old. She spoke of the emotional intelligence and expressiveness of these birds. “It’s almost like having that many people in the house with you because of their presence,” Nenad said. “They’re small but they’re mighty.”
The cost of animal feed has more than tripled over the last three years. So far, the rescue has been fortunate enough to have local support from businesses that have been donating food for the animals, as well as veterinary care provided by the Jerome Humane Society.
Nevertheless, the rescue still spends between $6,000 to $7,000 each month on animal food. Hay bales alone can cost $1,000 per month. Nenad stressed the importance of feeding the animals well despite the expense.
“One thing I do is I feed really well because it’s so important,” Nenad explained. “A lot of the animals came from situations where they were compromised and we had to get them back to doing pretty good. In fact, they’re a little chubby, but I’d rather have that than too thin.”
The rescue’s poster child, Poncho the zebra, was donated by a woman who had to surrender him due to health issues. Visitors are welcome to come see the animals as long as they contact her first, Nenad said. Many people dropped by during the pandemic and spent healing time with the animals.
At times, the rescue’s work is difficult, especially when it comes to animal deaths. The rescue was formerly home to a 40-year old donkey who recently died from a stroke.
“For knowing each one of them, your life is so full,” Nenad said. “I’ve led a very interesting life. I’m very blessed.”
Volunteers are always needed to help with tasks like repairing fences and barn building. The rescue is always looking for farriers as well.
“It’s a very fulfilling thing,” Nenad said. “It’s what I was brought here in this world to do, to take care of animals in one way or another.”
For more information on donations and volunteer opportunities, visit little orphananimals.org.
