Resilient Hearts Animal Sanctuary — Local services in Seattle

This is an unusual review, i haven’t actually been to the shelter. I did however meet a young volunteer, named Riley if memory serves. I struck up a conversation with two young boys just outside of the Queen Ann library. We spoke about book selection, they opted for letting their dad select the books. I had asked what subjects they were interested in, and the young man Riley told me he was rather busy, and preferred his volunteer position over most things, including the company of his brother, or perhaps friend, I wasnt sure . He promptly reached into his Velcro wallet and took out a business card , which read Resilient Hearts. He proceeded to tell me all the good things the shelter does, and encouraged me to visit, even if it was just to spend time with the dogs. I was so taken aback by his enthusiasm i shared that i was actually fostering some kittens from Paws in Lynwood. It was a lovely conversation and i could only be filled with hope for the dogs, and for young people, or this young man anyway. So for this enthusiasm and encouragement given to a young person by a shelter, i give you five stars!!!!!! I will absolutely find my way into the actual shelter to do exactly what was recommended by this young man. Thank you Riley, thank you Resilient Hearts, and all the dogs who change us forever, may they all find their way to the most loving...

I encountered Resilient Hearts through their puppy yoga program (which I highly recommend for interacting with a lot of cute pups!). My husband and I decided we wanted to try fostering and Mike was able to help us with fostering a puppy. They were really helpful in making sure we are comfortable with the pup we took home, making sure you were sent home with enough food and whatever supplies you need, and you can tell how much they care for all of the dogs.

I haven’t really seen any other shelter/sanctuary socialize their pups and much as Resilient Hearts does, having business hours for people to visit and play with puppies and even offering short-term foster options such as coffee dates or hikes. It’s really such a great way to socialize pups and get them used to various people and surroundings.

We had to bring our little foster back after a week (and she was such a wonderful pup to be with), but I know for sure that I will likely foster more or adopt a pup from them...

This place has an excellent initiative, but I was taken aback when they allowed a violent-mannered dog to casually walk around the interior of their space with children.

They had a beautiful black German shepherd (?) mix who was laying behind the counter. I asked if I could pet it, and the employees said “only if you want to lose a hand”. Message received… About 20-30 minutes later a family entered the storefront to return their foster puppy. The employees left the dog alone who jumped over the small doggy fence where any unknowing person could pet it. I alerted another employee who had no idea the dog was “having a bad day” and could have a violent outburst, yet I saw a child reaching to pet it. Luckily the dog didn’t do anything to the child. Every employee was so nonchalant about this dog who was clearly unstable.

I feel bad to give such a low rating but you guys need to be a lot more mindful of animal...