Thompson River animal shelter marks milestone

The Thompson River Animal Care Shelter announces a series of monumental achievements as it marks two decades of service to the community.

What began as a humble, home-based volunteer group has flourished into a premier non-profit organization situated on a 3-acre campus. Today, the facility operates with three specialized buildings, a staff of ten dedicated employees, and a passionate network of volunteers.

The shelter recently reached a profound milestone with the intake of its 15,000th animal, a pug mix named Lady. Rescued in October from a difficult situation by partnering with a rescue group in Texas, Lady symbolizes the organization's mission. 

"Our evolution from a small group of neighbors into a thriving sanctuary has been fueled by a simple, unwavering belief: every animal deserves a chance to be loved," said Wanda Thorpe, Founder of TRACS. "Lady represents the fifteen thousand individual lives we have fought for, and it is a profound honor to provide a second chance for local animals who have nowhere else to turn." 

Since the arrival of Lady, the shelter has already surpassed a total of 15,300 animals served.

In addition to its anniversary, TRACS shattered its previous adoption records in 2025 by facilitating homes for over 1,000 dogs, a significant increase from the previous high of 882 in 2021. This growth was supported by the expansion of adoption events into Spokane Valley. 

"Reaching one thousand adoptions in a single year is an exhilarating achievement that illustrates the tireless energy of our team," said Shane Booker, Executive Director. "By broadening our horizons to include Spokane Valley, we have connected 

incredible pets with families who might never have found them otherwise. This record is not just a number; it is a testament to the fact that hope has no geographic boundaries."

The final adoptions of the year highlighted the emotional impact of the work performed at TRACS. The 999th dog, a Bernese Mountain Dog named Monty, found a new life with a couple from New Hampshire who traveled across the country to adopt him after losing their previous dog of the same name. Shortly thereafter, the 1,000th adoption was completed for Samuel, a stray from a local reservation. 

"Seeing Samuel transition from a wandering stray to a beloved family member in Stevensville warms my heart," added Thorpe. "It reminds us that every mile traveled and every hour volunteered contributes to a beautiful story of a family made whole."