Elaine West

Founder/President

Elaine West founded Rooterville Animal Sanctuary Inc. with the help and support of her late husband and partner Dale West, in 2004. Today, Elaine serves as president and leads a team of eight that handle everything in the daily operations of the business and upkeep of the sanctuary, as well as caring for the amazing animals that call the sanctuary home. ​

​I grew up around farms and farmers. Of all the animals, I loved the pigs the best. There is nothing cuter than a baby pig. In my youth, I nursed many runts to health. When potbellied pigs came to the US, I had to have one. So, I saved up and bought two! It was no surprise my first rescue was a little gray potbellied pig who won me over at hello when she rolled over for her belly rub at the sound of a friendly voice at a local Humane Society that was giving her away to be eaten. That little pig changed everything!"

Background

Elaine received her Bachelor of Science in Marketing from Florida State University. Elaine's background includes a long career in the mortgage business, working as a Loan Officer for Regions Bank, as well as in retail, She is incredibly compassionate, exceptional at problem solving and stretching an operating budget to accomplish more. Elaine loves helping people and animals, and it shows in all she does. She cares deeply and that much is evident.

Along the way, Elaine discovered the local Humane Society was receiving pigs whose futures were dismal at best. She volunteered to implement a spay and neuter program and build the pigs better pens. This was pivotal for Elaine. She built her first animal sanctuary inside the Humane Society focused on helping pigs. It was there she gained the confidence to help mare and begin the Rootervile dream.

"My inspiration is knowing that people's lives change for the better after an experience at our sanctuary, that we have made them smile and forget their problems while experiencing something they never get to do anywhere else. My inspiration is to be a blessing to people, and to animals. We cannot force change on anyone, our goal is to INSPIRE change, and no one does a better job at that than our incredible animal ambassadors."

Other Team Members

Heather

Heather is the sweetest person and you'll meet her when you visit the gift shop where she will help you find the perfect Roo-venir. She is in charge of the treat bags and will be delighted to take your donation for your visit. Heather loves people and you'll know that right off the bat. She'll take great care of you!

Jackie

VOLUNTEER Jackie is retired and needs things to do to keep her healthy and we're so fortunate she chose Rooterville as one of her places to give her time and talent to. She is dedicated and reliable and a good listener whenever Elaine has to bend her ear. She helps wherever needed in the office or out getting dirty in the garden. She is such a sweetheart

In her words: "I receive unconditional love from the animals, exercise, sunshine, pleasure watching the butterfly garden grow and opportunities to help where needed. enjoy working with the staff & volunteers that bring such love and care to their committment to the mission of the sanctuary. "We love Jackie's committment to doing her part to help us do what we do! Thank you Jacke

Brian

Brian is our amazing animal care person. He is in charge of making sure the animals here at Rooterville get the best care and attention possible. He loves giving treats to everyone and if we don't watch him, he would make all of the animals here too fat! He loves them all and you'll spot him squatting down to pet whoever comes near him. Brian also helps us keep our covered wagons squeaky clean and ready for guests. He is great at cleaning and organizing, which makes himock star here at Rooterville.

When Brian is not at Rooterville tending animals, he has lots of ferrets and other animals at home to care for! He loves animals and we're so lucky to have him here at Rooterville. You won't see him on most weekends, but if you volunteer or come during the week, you'll get to meet Brian. He's great with people AND animals, rare indeed!