Our Mission
It is the mission of Western Plains Animal Refuge to foster respect for all creatures, domestic and wild. We are dedicated to helping animals and our local community by providing foster, rehabilitation, adoption, and outreach services.
Founded in 2006 by veterinarian Dr. Jessica Braun, the Western Plains Animal Refuge (WPAR) began as a domestic animal shelter and wildlife rehabilitation center in Hays, Kansas. Since its founding, WPAR has helped improve the lives of over 1,500 animals. It was one of only 13 no-kill shelters and 17 wildlife rehabilitators in all of Kansas, and one of only two no-kill shelters and two wildlife rehabilitators in the northwest quarter of the state. In addition, it was the only organization in Kansas that served both domestic and wild animals.
WPAR spent most of its existence operating through Dr. Braun's veterinary clinic, the Animal Health Center. In September of 2011, Dr. Braun closed her practice so she could focus on other career opportunities, but this did not mean the end for WPAR. The 501(c)(3), non-profit organization is now being led by its new president and a team of dedicated volunteers.
While WPAR originated as a shelter, it is now moving toward a more decentralized model focused on a network of volunteers and foster homes. We are currently planning ways we can continue to help the animals living in our region.
WPAR spent most of its existence operating through Dr. Braun's veterinary clinic, the Animal Health Center. In September of 2011, Dr. Braun closed her practice so she could focus on other career opportunities, but this did not mean the end for WPAR. The 501(c)(3), non-profit organization is now being led by its new president and a team of dedicated volunteers.
While WPAR originated as a shelter, it is now moving toward a more decentralized model focused on a network of volunteers and foster homes. We are currently planning ways we can continue to help the animals living in our region.