Frequently Asked Questions
We've Got Answers
- What does it mean that Black Pine Animal Sanctuary is accredited by GFAS?
Accreditation by the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS) is a lengthy and thorough process which only 150 sanctuaries worldwide have achieved. This accreditation assures the public that the animal residents are cared for with the highest of standards for their health and well-being, for the rest of their lives.
- What is the difference between a sanctuary and a zoo?
To be a true sanctuary, as BPAS is, the animal residents are not bought, bred, sold or traded. The animals are surrendered, or are confiscated due to neglect or illegal possession, and they are carefully cared for at a sanctuary for the rest of their lives. At Black Pine, the staff and volunteers, provide refuge, excellent care, and a retirement home for the animals. The residents at BPAS roam freely in their habitat, and interact with guests on their terms.
- Can people pet the animals at Black Pine Animal Sanctuary?
No. The animal residents live at BPAS for refuge and to have a safe and caring environment. Interaction with humans can be frightening and disruptive to wild and exotic animals. It is also dangerous both for the visitor and the animal. The only human interaction sanctuary residents have is with the highly skilled keepers who provide care, enrichment and medical treatment for the animal’s well- being.
- Can Black Pine Animal Sanctuary care for injured or abandoned animals?
At Black Pine Animal Sanctuary we have a team who reviews inquiries regarding bringing an animal into the sanctuary. If you have or know of a captive raised exotic animal in need of refuge, please fill out the form or complete the PDF and email it to: exec@blackpine.org.
After review, the team will contact you with further information as quickly as possible. At present, we are not able to accept grazing/farm animals, aquatic animals, ground birds or native born Indiana wildlife.
To assist with native born wild animals, please contact the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR), as Black Pine Animal Sanctuary is not licensed or equipped to assist with these animals.
To assist with domestic and pocket pets, such as dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, rodents, hedgehogs, chinchillas, ferrets, etc., please contact your local Humane Society or shelter organization.
- Can I take photographs?
Yes, but Sanctuary rules require guests turn off their flash, and never taunt, yell, or scream at the animal residents for photographs.
- How is BPAS funded?
Black Pine Animal Sanctuary is a 501[c] 3, which means we are a public non-profit. The care for the animal residents is provided by fundraising events, private donations and grants. Most of the funding comes from grass roots donations from people and companies who share our mission of caring for the animal residents and raising awareness about their plight. Please visit our help section, for the many ways to help with the BPAS mission.
- When is the Sanctuary open?
As a true and GFAS accredited sanctuary, visitation is limited in order to minimize the impact on the animal residents.
For current hours of visitation, please visit the Hours & Fees page.
- Can I arrange a field trip or group visit to Black Pine Animal Sanctuary?
As an important part of the Black Pine Animal Sanctuary mission is education, we offer field trips for schools and groups from April through October. To schedule, please email info@blackpine.org or call 260.636.7383 for assistance.
- What are the prices?
Visitation prices vary by age, tour level, and season, and can be accessed by visiting Hours & Fees.
- Do I need a reservation?
Reservations are not necessary for general visitation which is available Thursday – Sunday until Labor Day. We recommend calling ahead to make reservations for guided and private tours as tour size is limited. Reservations can be made here.
- What types of payment do you accept?
Visits and donations can be made to BPAS via cash, check, Pay Pal, or all major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, and Discover).
- Is the Sanctuary open when it’s raining?
Yes. We are open during regular season during the rain, and close only if there is lightning, high winds and/or steady heavy rain, or the weather is dangerous. Prepaid reservations are subject to our cancellation policy.
- Is the Sanctuary accessible for wheelchairs, strollers, walkers and wagons?
Yes. The visitor parking area as well as the sanctuary are paved. We do have wheelchairs here for use as well.
- Is food available at the Sanctuary?
The sanctuary gift shop, Wolf Den Gifts and Things, offers cold drinks. Visitors are welcome to bring a picnic and enjoy the covered pavilion with picnic tables on a first come first served basis. Sanctuary rules prohibit alcohol and smoking.
- Are pets allowed in the Sanctuary?
No. This is for the safety of your pet, and the animal residents, as they may become aggressive or agitated by visiting domestic pets.
- What else is there to do near Black Pine Animal Sanctuary?
Black Pine is in the heart of Noble County with a variety of options for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, art lovers, and more!
- What is your Cancellation policy?
All pre-purchased programs are non-refundable, unless Black Pine cancels for any reason, in which case the buyer is eligible for choice of a full refund, or credit towards an alternative program, date, and/or time. Refunds, when applicable, will be made within 7-10 working days.
All pre-purchased program reservations are transferable. Present program acknowledgement, confirmation, or receipt upon arrival to redeem. All other program restrictions apply as noted.
Requests to change or transfer credit to another program date and/or time must be made and confirmed more than 24 hours in advanced of the originally purchased program date/time to be eligible for credit. Make change requests by calling (260) 636-7383 or via email to info@blackpine.org. Proof of purchase may be required. A program change fee may apply under extraordinary circumstances. Changes may be limited to use within one year of original purchase date. Please call 260-636-7383 to cancel if unable to attend. Often, volunteers are driving long distances to accommodate these programs, so advanced notice is greatly appreciated. No call, no shows may be subject to cancellation fees. If Black Pine cancels a prepaid program for any reason, a 100% refund will be issued and participants will be notified.