A growing animal sanctuary along Highway 2 in Odessa is continuing to expand its reach while helping both animals and people in the community.
Second Chance Ranch founder Darren Pruner said the nonprofit sanctuary began in a simple way after people started asking the ranch to take in animals needing care.
“We just had land, and people kept saying, ‘Oh, you should take this animal,’” Pruner said. “It just kind of organically grew to what it is.”
The ranch is now home to nearly 100 animals, including horses, sheep, pigs, goats, cows, chickens, ducks, peacocks and even a zonkey — a mix between a zebra and a donkey.
Pruner said the ranch is also launching a new ground-based animal therapy program called Beyond the Gate. The program is designed to help people dealing with PTSD and other disabilities through interactions with animals.
The sanctuary operates entirely through donations, sponsorships and community support, with no government funding.
Pruner said volunteers continue to play a major role in keeping the ranch running each day.
“We can’t do it without volunteers,” he said. “It’s the most crucial aspect of the whole farm.”
Visitors can arrange appointments to tour the ranch, meet the animals and learn their stories.
Hear our full interview with Darren here:
