Roots & Paws Sanctuary + Jasper Jo Co

Our Mission

At Roots & Paws Sanctuary and Jasper Jo Co, our mission is to create a life-transformative sanctuary that works in harmony with nature, cultivating a self-sustaining haven of food, water, shelter, and true wealth for ourselves, our community, and our guests. We are committed to offering a place of rest, belonging, and empowerment - a space where the fast pace of life slows, bonds with nature deepen, and dis-ease dissolves into profound, lasting healing.

Through this sanctuary, we aim to be a beacon of hope and a catalyst for change, addressing the fractures in our food and medical systems while giving dogs the second chances they so deeply deserve. By providing meaningful getaways, fostering connection and community, and inspiring growth, we strive to help every visitor discover the strength to heal, grow, and embrace their fullest potential.

At the heart of everything we do is a belief in transformation - of individuals, of systems, and of lives.

Together, we can create a world where nature, humanity, and our beloved animals thrive in unity.

How the Roots & Paws Vision Was Born:

Our Story

This was one of the very last photos Jasper and I took together before making the impossible decision to put him down only a couple hours later.

Additionally, this photo shows a girl who would be diagnosed with Stage 2 Invasive Ductal Carcinoma breast cancer only 90 days later.

The day I lost Jasper changed everything. I knew something was seriously wrong, he paced, whined, and looked at me with pleading eyes I’ll never forget. I took him to the vet and explained his symptoms, only to be dismissed and sent home with pain medication. Despite my gut instinct, I gave him the meds out of desperation. Hours later, after worsening symptoms and a second visit filled with more inconclusive tests and the same empty answers, I had to make the hardest decision of my life. I held him as he passed, still with no real explanation. That day broke me, and lit a fire I couldn’t ignore.

Just three months later, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. Alone. Without Jasper. I bawled in the middle of a coffee shop reading the diagnosis. I chose a double mastectomy but declined chemo and radiation as I chose a different path, one rooted in functional healing. I was determined to preserve my immune system and restore balance to my body.

Those two life-altering experiences exposed the broken systems we rely on, for both human and animal health. They shaped the vision behind Roots & Paws Sanctuary.

A World Out of Balance:

The Hidden Crisis We Can’t Ignore

Mental Health Decline

Mental health in the U.S. is worsening. In 2023, over 1 in 5 adults experienced mental illness, and more than 50% received no treatment. Youth depression rose by 39% in the past decade. Suicide rates increased 37% from 2000 to 2018, now ranking as a leading cause of death.

Soil Degradation

Over 95% of Earth's soil is projected to be degraded by 2050 due to industrial farming. Nutrient loss is alarming. Today, it takes 32 apples to match the nutrients of one apple 40 years ago. This soil depletion contributes to weakened immune systems, chronic illness, and declining human and animal health.

Stress & Burnout

Chronic stress is linked to up to 90% of doctor visits and contributes to heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Stress triggers inflammation and hormone imbalance, creating conditions for illness. Studies show high stress increases cancer risk by 50%, and burnout affects 77% of U.S. workers, harming overall health and longevity.

Lack of Connection

Lack of connection fuels loneliness, now affecting 58% of Americans. Isolation increases risk of death by 29%, rivaling smoking. In contrast, Blue Zones (where people live longest) prioritize community, purpose, and daily connection. Strong social ties are proven to boost longevity, resilience, and overall well-being. Community isn’t optional, it’s essential.

Increasing Canine Illness

Canine illness is rising. Over 50% of dogs face chronic conditions like allergies, cancer, or digestive issues. Conventional care often overlooks root causes. Holistic options like gut testing, acupuncture, and nutritional therapy remain inaccessible or unknown to most pet parents. The result: overmedicated dogs and rising veterinary costs with limited solutions.

Failed Adoptions

Up to 20% of adopted dogs are returned, often within six months. Shelter environments cause stress, anxiety, and behavioral issues, masking true personalities. Overcrowded, noisy conditions make it hard for dogs to connect with adopters. Without calm, home-like settings, dogs are misunderstood, leading to failed adoptions and emotional strain for all.

Community Partners

Roots & Paws Sanctuary is proud to collaborate with local organizations and businesses who share our vision of compassion, sustainability, and community impact. Their support helps us expand our mission and reach more animals and families in need.

GET IN TOUCH!

Have questions about adoption, volunteering, or supporting the sanctuary? We'd love to hear from you. Send us a message and our team will get back to you as soon as possible.

  • Phone
    (740) 817-1938

  • Location
    Ohio

Roots & Paws Sanctuary In collaboration with Jasper Jo Co

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