The Gud Ark Animal Sanctuary, Maricopa

About The Gud Ark Animal Sanctuary

The Gud Ark Animal Sanctuary in Maricopa rescues and rehabilitates animals in need while offering visitors hands-on experiences with them. Guests can participate in private tours, school field trips, and small or large group tours of the sanctuary grounds. The facility hosts birthday parties and operates a mobile petting zoo that travels to events. Animal interaction at sanctuary premises includes time with named residents such as horses, cats, dogs, goats, pigs, reptiles, parrots, birds, and emus. The sanctuary runs animal summer camps where children engage in hands-on activities; options include Horse Camp and Animal Critter Camp. The mission focuses on healing children's hearts and minds through learning about agriculture and animals, creating a safe place for community members, foster youth, and lower-income families. Founded by husband-and-wife team Kyle and Ellese Gudvangen, the sanctuary emphasizes giving animals and people second chances through compassionate care and volunteer involvement.