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Rescue Ranch

Non-profit organization · Winston-Salem, NC · reviewed since 2015

How the Experts Score is calculatedEach factor is scored 0–100 on absolute terms (standing in the category can only raise it), then weighted; problems flagged in review highlights or a recent slide in ratings are subtracted:Satisfaction 64%85+54Reliability 28%94+26.5Replies to reviews 8%29+2.4Experts Score= 83Not enough data for value; its weight is shared by the others.Grade A: A = 80+, B = 60–79, C = 40–59, D = 20–39. Needs 10+ reviews.83SCORE
AGradeLetter from the Experts Score: A = 80+, B = 60–79, C = 40–59, D = 20–39, F = under 20.
#4 of 22 pet rescuePosition by Experts Score among all companies we track in this category. · better than 86%
4.8 ★★★★★ 197 Google reviews · 24 photos
88%five-star reviews
4.81★last 12 monthsAverage stars on reviews from the last 12 months only.
0%1–2★ in 2 yearsShare of 1–2★ reviews in the last 24 months — or the 20 newest reviews when the company had fewer than 20 in that time.
41%reviews answered by the owner
Oct 2026latest review

Rescue Ranch at a glance

Google reviewers rate Rescue Ranch 4.8 out of 5 based on 197 reviews, with the owner responding to 41 percent of comments. Visitors frequently praise the clean facilities, extensive playground, and knowledgeable staff who facilitate private tours and animal interactions for families. While many find the pricing reasonable for the experience, some criticisms highlight increased costs for classes, confusion during large events, and inconsistent staff behavior regarding guest access and communication.

  • Google rating: 4.8 out of 5 from 197 reviews (88% five-star).
  • Reviews on this page: 197 Google reviews (120 with written comments, 23 with photos).
  • Owner responses: the business replied to 41% of reviews.
  • Most recent review: October 3, 2026.
  • Service: Pet Rescue Organization serving Winston-Salem, North Carolina.

Data from Google, last updated October 26, 2026.

Score profile vs other pet rescue

Score per factor (100 = best)Each factor is scored 0–100 on absolute terms (star average, share of 1–2★ reviews, price verdicts…); standing within the category can only raise it, never lower it.. Strongest: momentum and reliability; weakest: replies to reviews.

Satisfaction85Reliability94Craft & service–Value–Momentum100Replies to reviews29Satisfaction: 85 (median 61)Reliability: 94 (median 58)Momentum: 100 (median 100)Replies to reviews: 29 (median 28)
Rescue RanchPet Rescue median0 = centre, 100 = best
SatisfactionSatisfaction · 54% of the scoreRecency-weighted star average (2-year half-life), shrunk toward the category mean by review volume; the company’s own lifetime average as the prior; absolute: 4.0★ = 0, 5★ = 100.Rescue Ranch: 85/100 on this factor. Category median: 61.A
85
ReliabilityReliability · 24% of the scoreHow rarely jobs go badly: share of 1–2★ reviews — 60% the last 24 months (or the 20 newest if fewer), 40% all-time; 0% = 100, 15%+ = 0; the category percentile can only raise it.Rescue Ranch: 94/100 on this factor. Category median: 58.A
94
Craft & serviceCraft & service · penalty only, up to −10 pointsGoogle review highlights: Quality, Professionalism, Responsiveness, Punctuality — how rarely reviewers flag them as a negative, per review since highlights began; 0% = 100, 5%+ = 0. Subtracted from the score (up to −10), never averaged in — clean highlights are the norm, not a bonus.Not enough reviews for this factor yet. Category median: 86.–
–
ValueValue · 14% of the scoreCustomers’ own price verdicts (Great / Reasonable vs Overpriced) and Value highlights; 65% absolute (all “reasonable” ≈ 80, “great” = 100), the category percentile can only raise it.Not enough reviews for this factor yet. Category median: 93.–
–
MomentumMomentum · penalty only, up to −10 pointsPenalises only a real slide: last-12-month average below lifetime (−0.5★ = 0). Still 4.8★+ over the last year, or steady/improving = 100. Subtracted from the score (up to −10), never averaged in.Rescue Ranch: 100/100 on this factor. Category median: 100.A
100
Replies to reviewsReplies to reviews · 7% of the scoreHow often the owner publicly replies to reviews under 5★ (1–4★). Needs 3+ such reviews, otherwise not counted; 65% absolute (80%+ replied = 100), the category percentile can only raise it.Rescue Ranch: 29/100 on this factor. Category median: 28.D
29

Bar = this company · dark tick = category median.

Star ratings

197 Google reviews we collected

  • 5 stars17388%
  • 4 stars168%
  • 3 stars84%
  • 2 stars00%
  • 1 star00%

Praise vs complaints

Phrases our text analysis found in 120 written reviews

  • Praise7995%
  • Complaints45%

Topic share

How often each topic comes up in the written reviews

  • Staff & attitude4959%
  • Would recommend1214%
  • Quality & results1012%
  • Price & value56%
  • Speed & response45%
  • Honesty & trust22%
  • Communication11%

What customers talk about

We read 120 written reviews and marked every phrase about these topics. The same colors are highlighted in the reviews.

  • “There are many wonderful things to say about Rescue Ranch, but what stands out most to me is the compassion and humanity that can be found there every day.”
    “While the older kids still had fun, one of the employees was very rude to the children, which really put a damper on the experience.”
  • “I would recommend calling ahead or emailing a staff member before your visit simply to ensure someone is available to show you everything this special…”
  • “Had my kids 3rd birthday here, I had my older ones 5th birthday here 6 years ago and rescue ranch exceeded my expectations once again.”
  • “Membership is absolutely worth it if you have littles that love the park.”
  • “It rained during our visit, but we were provided with a receipt that allowed us to return and play in the fun-fabulous playground the next day.”
  • “I took my six and nine-year-olds and this is honestly probably the best activity we have ever done for the price.”
  • “Beautifully run non-profit animal rescue, friendly and easy to work with staff, homeschool programs and group rates available.”

People customers mention

  • Todd 4 reviews
  • Statesville 3 reviews

praise complaint · found by our text analysis, Google review wording unchanged.

Recent reviews

Cortny10 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · 3 weeks ago★★★★★

Had a great time during our private tour with Jen! It is not just for kids, so if you are an animal loving adult, get out there and support the rescue!

Virginia4 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · a month ago★★★★★

We love visiting the rescue ranch! We usually do a private tour and we all enjoy interacting with all the animals. On our most recent tour, we had Danielle, and my kids said she was the best "tourer" and we all agree.

Makayla1 reviewTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · 2 months ago★★★★★

We visited the ranch today for the first time and done a private tour. My daughter absolutely loved getting to feed and hold some of the animals. Our tour guide was also so kind! We took some time to play on the playground before our tour and it was amazing. So many ways to play! The facility was clean and all the staff members were so nice.

CaseyLocal Guide · 28 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · 2 months ago★★★★★

Lynn was great! We did a private tour and had a wonder experience meeting lots of animals and seeing the facility, they keep it incredibly clean and well maintained. Happy to support such a wonderful place!

Customer photo from Casey's review
MartinsLocal Guide · 7 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · 3 months ago★★★★★

We had the absolute best time on our tour at the rescue ranch. I took my six and nine-year-olds and this is honestly probably the best activity we have ever done for the price. The tour was not rushed and our guide, Abby, knew so much about all the animals and was able to answer our thousands of questions! We did…

Customer photo from Martins's review
JTLocal Guide · 60 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · 3 months ago★★★★★

Awesome place to take the kids especially if they are interested in animals and reptiles. They have a huge playground outside and I love that they are a nonprofit organization created to help all kinds of animals.

Photos

Customer reviews

4.8 ★★★★★ 197 reviews on Google · rating breakdown

Reviews from Google, shown as published (original wording, unedited).

Jobs customers hired them for — from Google's service tags and the review text
Team members customers mention
Filter by topic — each topic is highlighted in the reviews in the same color
Cortny Alfonso10 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews Cortny has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
Review from Google · view on Google
★★★★★

Had a great time during our private tour with Jen! It is not just for kids, so if you are an animal loving adult, get out there and support the rescue!

Response from the owner · 2 weeks ago

Hi Cortny, Thank you for taking the time to leave a review. It was so nice meeting you all and hope to see you back at the Ranch soon.

Erin FischerLocal Guide · 59 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews Erin has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
Review from Google · view on Google
★★★★★

Our kids loved it, very inexpensive, we will be back again and again!

Response from the owner · 2 weeks ago

Hi Erin, Thank you for taking the time to leave a review. We hope to see you back soon!

Virginia T4 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews Virginia has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
Review from Google · view on Google
★★★★★

We love visiting the rescue ranch! We usually do a private tour and we all enjoy interacting with all the animals. On our most recent tour, we had Danielle, and my kids said she was the best "tourer" and we all agree.

Response from the owner · a month ago

Virginia, Thank you for taking the time to leave a review. We're glad you enjoyed your visit and hope to see you back soon at the Ranch!

Makayla Cogdill1 reviewTotal number of Google reviews Makayla has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
Review from Google · view on Google
★★★★★

We visited the ranch today for the first time and done a private tour. My daughter absolutely loved getting to feed and hold some of the animals. Our tour guide was also so kind! We took some time to play on the playground before our tour and it was amazing. So many ways to play! The facility was clean and all the staff members were so nice.

Response from the owner · a month ago

Makayla, Thank you for your review. We're glad you enjoyed your visit and hope to see you back soon.

CaseyLocal Guide · 28 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews Casey has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
Review from Google · view on Google
★★★★★

Lynn was great! We did a private tour and had a wonder experience meeting lots of animals and seeing the facility, they keep it incredibly clean and well maintained. Happy to support such a wonderful place!

Response from the owner · 2 months ago

Thank you for taking the time to leave a review. We're glad you enjoyed your visit and hope to see you back at the Ranch soon!

Martins Talk PlayLocal Guide · 7 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews Martins has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
Review from Google · view on Google
★★★★★

We had the absolute best time on our tour at the rescue ranch. I took my six and nine-year-olds and this is honestly probably the best activity we have ever done for the price. The tour was not rushed and our guide, Abby, knew so much about all the animals and was able to answer our thousands of questions! We did not have time to play on the playground because we had to head home but they also have an amazing playground. We will definitely be back.

Response from the owner · 3 months ago

Thank you for taking the time to leave a review. We are always excited when we have interns like Abbie that are as passionate about Rescue Ranch and our mission as we are. We hope to see you back soon at the Ranch!

JT WaltersLocal Guide · 60 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews JT has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
Review from Google · view on Google
★★★★★

Awesome place to take the kids especially if they are interested in animals and reptiles. They have a huge playground outside and I love that they are a nonprofit organization created to help all kinds of animals.

Response from the owner · 3 months ago

JT, Thank you for taking the time to leave a review! Hope to see you back soon at the Ranch.

Payton Kendrick6 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews Payton has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
Review from Google · view on Google
★★★★★

The Rescue Ranch has a great space for hosting large parties, and we held our daughter's first birthday there on June 6, 2026. I'm just now getting around to writing this review. Unfortunately, our experience was disappointing. We were not a fan of the party schedule, especially considering it was extremely hot outside and the birthday girl had just turned one. While the older kids still had fun, one of the employees was very rude to the children, which really put a damper on the experience. There were about 20 minutes left in our party when I asked about bringing out the bunny that we had paid extra for. The employee responded that she didn't know if there was enough time, even though it was an activity included with our party. She also seemed frustrated that I didn't want to strictly follow the scheduled timeline. We also felt very rushed as soon as our party time ended. The next group was already arriving, and it felt like we were being pushed out immediately. On top of that, there was a misunderstanding about setup time. I had believed we would have an hour and a half to decorate, but we were only given 30 minutes, along with just 30 minutes to clean up afterward. The venue itself is beautiful and has plenty of room for a large party, but due to the scheduling, feeling rushed, and our interaction with staff, I don't think we'll be booking here again.

Response from the owner · 3 months ago

Payton, We are so sorry to hear you only had a 3 star experience and would love to hear more about the issues you encountered so we can learn how we can do better. If you would like to give us a call or shoot us an email, we would be happy to discuss the situation with you.

W TroutmanLocal Guide · 37 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews W has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
Review from Google · view on Google
★★★★★

There are many wonderful things to say about Rescue Ranch, but what stands out most to me is the compassion and humanity that can be found there every day. I have spent my entire life caring for animals—including senior dogs with medical needs, an insulin-dependent cat, a Boxer that had been abandoned, a rambunctious puppy that was facing euthanasia because there was no room to house him, and even a newborn kitten whose mother rejected him. Caring for animals has taught me that some of life's greatest rewards come from helping those who cannot help themselves. That is exactly what Rescue Ranch does. Whether you are a child visiting for the first time, a parent sharing an experience with your family, or an adult looking for a place of peace and perspective, Rescue Ranch offers something special. The staff and volunteers do far more than care for animals; they teach compassion, responsibility, stewardship, and kindness. The Ranch is a healing place—not only for rescued animals (small and large, young and old, sick and healthy), but also for the people who visit. It reminds us that there is joy in helping others and that we all have the ability to make a positive difference in the world. Michelle, Krissie, Nici, Maddie, Whitney, and the entire team are extraordinary people who genuinely live the mission they promote. Their dedication is evident in everything they do. The animals, event center, educational facilities, and amazing playground and shelter area are a testament to people with both heart and vision. It is truly a blessing to everyone who visits. I cannot recommend Rescue Ranch highly enough. Whether you stop by for a short visit or spend the day exploring all they have to offer, you'll leave with a greater appreciation for animals, community, and the power of compassion. I would recommend calling ahead or emailing a staff member before your visit simply to ensure someone is available to show you everything this special place has to offer. This place has been good for the animals it rescues, but I believe it has been just as good for those of us whose lives it has touched. — Will Troutman, Harmony, NC

Response from the owner · 4 months ago

Will, Thank you for taking the time to leave a review. We appreciate your support and your kind words. RR Team

PineappleLocal Guide · 284 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews Pineapple has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
Review from Google · view on Google
★★★★★

What an AMAZING place! We've been trying to get here for a while now but we're not early people LoL so we finally made it yesterday for Dino day and wow! They were extremely organized, event was great and their staff was exceptional! Everyone was super kind and welcoming! My baby who is usually afraid of all animals (except cats and LARGE dogs) fed the goats, wanted to see pigs, cows, horses, etc. Definitely worth the trip! We can't wait to come back. Also, playground is awesome! A great variety of activities and everything is very well maintained.

Response from the owner · 4 months ago

Thank you for your review! We're glad you enjoyed Dino Day and hope to see you back soon at the Ranch. If you would like to come for a private our group tour just give us a call.

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