When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
New Life Asher House
Why New Life Asher House is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
New Life Asher House is a remarkable adoption-focused rescue and sanctuary located in Lebanon, Oregon, dedicated to saving and rehabilitating over 200 animals including dogs, cats, birds, and larger livestock such as donkeys, llamas, and horses. This sanctuary is part of The Asher House organization, a registered 501c3 nonprofit that provides a safe haven for abused or abandoned animals, offering them medical care, love, and enrichment activities to help them thrive. The sanctuary prioritizes adoption, rehoming as many animals as possible to loving families, while also supporting some animals that live out their lives on the property. Their mission extends beyond local rescue to community education, spay/neuter programs, and support for shelters nationwide, especially during natural disasters. The sanctuary's environment is designed to be enriching and fun, ensuring animals enjoy activity and adventure. With a strong commitment to animal welfare, New Life Asher House is not only a place where animals are cared for but also a community hub for those passionate about animal rights and rescue. Their ongoing expansion plans, including a new large property for dogs to run and play freely, reflect their dedication to growth and improving animal lives.
Here's what people think of New Life Asher House
As of recent, New Life Asher House holds a 4.1-star rating based on 343 reviews.
Reviews of New Life Asher House highlight its strong commitment to animal welfare and successful adoption program. Many users commend the sanctuary for the loving care and detailed attention animals receive, noting the clean and well-maintained facilities and the knowledgeable, compassionate staff. Positive reviews often mention the diverse range of animals cared for, the sanctuary’s proactive outreach programs, and the heartwarming stories of rescue and rehabilitation documented by the organization. Visitors and adopters appreciate the transparency and communication offered during the adoption process, as well as the sanctuary's efforts to educate the community on animal rights. On the other hand, some negative reviews focus on challenges such as limited adoption availability restricted to certain states, and occasional delays in communication for inquiries. A few note that because the organization handles a large number of animals, some follow-up support may not be as prompt as desired. Overall, the reviews reflect a highly trusted and respected organization with a strong impact on animal rescue, illustrating that New Life Asher House is viewed as an essential and cherished sanctuary by the community it serves.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Meredith Kerler
I did go back for him. I named him Franklin blue eyes. He was the love of my life.❤️ Very honest and straight forward staff! I forget the woman's name, but she made me feel welcome right away. Very clean facility. They introduced me to the perfect dog. They really want to make sure the right dog goes home with the right human. I'm coming back for you Roy!
Moonstone Foxy
On June 10, 2023: We had such a great experience picking out our dog, Banquita, from New Life Asher House. They did a fantastic job in ensuring that we were viable parents for Banquita. At our appointment, we had a private room to meet Banquita - it was instantly a connection! Tears fell down our cheeks because we knew she was the one. We had already picked out a new name for her - 🍌 Banana - because her fur color is the same as the inside of a banana. She slept the whole 10 hour drive home. She got all wrapped up in Dad's favorite blanket. 1.5 years later, she is super healthy, put on some weight/growth. Banana loves toys, hates water/rain, loves fetching balls, loves chew bones and her walks. As of December 29, 2024: She gets her regular 6 month check ups at her vet and is doing fantastic. From the time we got her - to now, she has put on 10 healthy pounds, her coat is super soft and thick. Banana LOVES her family and couldn't be happier. My boyfriend - Tim & I, are very happy with the entries process, from start to finish; from checking their website, to checking out with Banana in tow.
Shanna Ryan
We adopted our new baby today, and she's perfect! Thank you to the Asher House for taking such good care of Eleanor! We love her!
jessie b.
i got a dog on new year's day and she's starting to really settle in. her name is schmutz now but she is FKA ceniza. when we saw her profile and that she was described as special, I knew we had to get her. if people who see dogs everyday think she's special among dogs, she must be. she's been super easy to train and gets along well with our four cats. i wasn't sure i could handle a fearful dog and she's developed quite a few fears (she's made peace with the dog in the glass but the hooded woman is out to get us now), but i don't think the staff would have known that because she's most confident when she's around multiple other dogs. it's definitely been a learning curve since she's our first dog in our adult lives but she's been showing us more of who she is and we've been learning a lot about dog behavior. it's been really fun, i love her so much
Jared Ruffell
This place is great. we had an amazing time getting to know him at the shelter, spoiling him. Marshall is a big sweetheart. He's still a bit shy and nervous, but he's warming up to us and his new surroundings great
How to reach New Life Asher House
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Website: None
Why rally at New Life Asher House with your friends?
Gathering your friends or family at New Life Asher House offers more than just a social meetup—it’s an opportunity to be part of a meaningful mission in a welcoming, enriching environment. This place is dedicated to providing lifelong care and second chances to rescue dogs, making your visit deeply impactful. When you rally here, you share an experience that combines compassion and community, as you engage with animals that have been given love and protection while waiting for their forever homes. The scenic, peaceful setting—spread over a large, secure property—creates the perfect backdrop for spending quality time together. Whether you’re animal lovers or simply want a memorable meetup, this venue fosters connection through kindness and purpose, making your gathering not only enjoyable but also transformative for both visitors and the animals. The 4.1-star rating from over 340 reviews reflects a positive and trusted place that balances care with community engagement, enhancing your group’s shared adventure.
What activities can you enjoy at New Life Asher House as a group?
New Life Asher House offers a variety of activities that make it ideal for group gatherings. First and foremost, visitors can interact with the many rescue dogs living there, providing socialization and playtime that is enjoyable for both the animals and your group. Walking trails around the expansive, 240-acre fenced property invite visitors to enjoy nature together while spotting dogs freely roaming or exploring designated areas. The facility also includes a newly renovated barn and a horse arena, which adds an additional element of outdoor engagement and offers scenic spots for group photos or picnics. For those interested in animal welfare, informal guided tours and informational sessions about the rescue mission allow visitors to learn more about dog rescue and adoption. This educational and interactive approach creates a dynamic visit, perfect for friends or families seeking a meaningful outing that blends leisure with learning and hands-on animal care.
Why is New Life Asher House perfect for hosting group meetups?
New Life Asher House’s environment is uniquely suited to group gatherings because of its spacious, serene setting paired with a shared purpose. With over 200 acres of land, groups of all sizes can comfortably explore various areas without feeling crowded, offering both intimacy and space to spread out. The calm, natural surroundings promote relaxation and conversation while mingling with the dogs, making it ideal for reconnecting with loved ones in a low-pressure atmosphere. The organization’s mission to provide a peaceful sanctuary for dogs also encourages a sense of community and shared values among visitors, enhancing group cohesion. Additionally, because the dog rescue often requires volunteer interactions, meetups can double as volunteer events, strengthening bonds through teamwork and shared contribution. The combination of open space, meaningful activities, and a compassionate mission creates a setting where any group can enjoy time together while making a positive difference.
How does New Life Asher House support animal rescue and how can that enrich your meetup?
New Life Asher House is committed to rescuing, rehabilitating, and providing safe, loving care for dogs until they find permanent homes. This commitment is visible in the way the property is managed and how the animals are integrated into the visitor experience. Rather than a typical petting zoo or shelter, it functions as a sanctuary offering an enriching environment tailored to each dog’s needs, reflecting a dedicated mission to animal welfare. By visiting with friends, your group directly supports this cause through admission donations, merchandise purchases, or volunteer activities, all of which fund the dogs’ care. Interacting with animals who have received a second chance fosters empathy and inspiration, turning a casual meetup into a moment of social consciousness and community impact. As visitors learn about the stories behind the rescue dogs and witness ongoing care efforts, your group’s time becomes educational as well as enjoyable, leaving lasting impressions that extend beyond the day of the meetup.
What makes the atmosphere and visitor experience at New Life Asher House special?
The atmosphere at New Life Asher House balances peaceful rural charm with active mission-driven energy. Surrounded by nature and open spaces, groups escape the hustle of everyday life to immerse themselves in a calm, restorative environment. Visitors often describe the experience as both uplifting and soulful, as they see firsthand how the organization’s hard work directly benefits the animals. Staff and volunteers are passionate and welcoming, eager to share knowledge and enhance visitor engagement, which personalizes the experience for any group. The chance to be close to animals who are thriving despite their past hardships creates emotional connections, making your time there meaningful. This combination of tranquility, purposeful interaction, and warm hospitality crafts a one-of-a-kind venue that feels both refreshing and fulfilling for a friend or family gathering.
How accessible and visitor-friendly is New Life Asher House for groups?
New Life Asher House is conveniently located to serve Oregon, Washington, and Idaho residents, who are eligible to adopt dogs, underscoring a regional community focus. The facility’s layout accommodates groups with safe, easy access to walking paths, outdoor spaces, and shaded seating areas, allowing visitors of all ages and mobility levels to participate comfortably. The staff is experienced at facilitating group visits and can tailor tours or activities to meet varying group sizes and preferences. Adoption applications and educational programs are streamlined to welcome public involvement without creating hurdles. For groups coming from nearby locations, this accessibility adds to the appeal, ensuring planning ease and a smooth visit. Whether you want a casual hangout or a more interactive experience, New Life Asher House’s thoughtful design and supportive environment accommodate your group’s needs.
What kind of community impact can your group make by meeting at New Life Asher House?
By hosting your meetup at New Life Asher House, your group incrementally supports a broader community mission to reduce animal homelessness and promote rescue awareness. The organization’s work helps countless dogs find loving families, and every visitor contributes to sustaining this mission through involvement and financial support. Group visits encourage dialogue about responsible pet ownership, animal welfare, and community activism, planting seeds for further outreach or volunteer action. This setting transforms a personal social event into a platform for collective impact, allowing your group to be part of a compassionate movement. The shared experience of helping animals in need can deepen friendships and create a sense of pride and purpose among participants, amplifying the social and emotional rewards of your time together.
How can New Life Asher House accommodate special occasions or celebrations for groups?
New Life Asher House offers an exceptional setting for celebrating special occasions, from birthdays to casual reunions, in a way that blends fun with philanthropy. The natural, spacious grounds allow for personalized setups such as picnic areas, group games, and interactive time with the animals, which can enhance the uniqueness of your event. Organizers can coordinate in advance with staff to integrate tours or volunteer opportunities into the event, making celebrations even more meaningful. The intimate yet open atmosphere ensures that groups can celebrate together without distractions, creating memories that combine joy with kindness. Additionally, assistance with event coordination ensures that logistics run smoothly, allowing your group to focus on connection and celebration while supporting a worthy cause.
Why rate New Life Asher House as a top choice for your next group meetup?
Rated 4.1 out of 5 stars based on over 340 reviews, New Life Asher House demonstrates consistent quality and satisfaction among visitors. This rating reflects the organization’s dedication to animal care, its welcoming environment, and its success in engaging the community. Positive feedback often highlights the friendly staff, the rewarding experience of interacting with the dogs, and the peaceful, beautiful surroundings. While every venue has areas for improvement, the overall customer sentiment suggests that New Life Asher House is a reliable and enriching destination for groups. Whether your priority is socializing, volunteering, learning, or simply enjoying nature with friends and family, this animal sanctuary delivers a unique, heartwarming experience that sets it apart as a meaningful meetup location.