Valley of the Kings Sanctuary & Retreat

What happens to animals when they grow too big, too expensive, or too inconvenient for the humans who bought them?

In this episode, host Jill Economou sits down with Jill Carnegie, founder of Valley of the Kings, and Shirley Combes, a volunteer of more than 25 years, to share the real stories behind lifelong animal rescue.

From former circus tigers whose teeth were removed, to bears saved from a roadside zoo, to farm animals and pot‑bellied pigs surrendered after outgrowing human expectations, the conversation explores how Valley of the Kings became a permanent refuge for animals with nowhere else to go. Shirley also highlights one of the most overlooked animal welfare crises in the U.S., feral and community cats, and why spaying and neutering is essential to preventing suffering.

VALLEY OF THE KINGS SANCTUARY & RETREAT
Valley of the Kings Animal Sanctuary provides lifelong care for exotic, farm, and domestic animals who cannot return to the wild or be rehomed. Founded more than 50 years ago, the sanctuary serves as a permanent retirement home where animals rescued from neglect, abuse, roadside zoos, and private ownership can live out their lives with dignity and care.
Website: votk.org
Facebook: facebook.com/votkbigcats

ELLENBECKER INVESTMENT GROUP
Presenter of the MPC Podcast. Ellenbecker Investment Group (EIG), a registered investment advisor, provides comprehensive financial planning and fiduciary wealth management for individuals, families, businesses, and charitable foundations.
Website: ellenbecker.com

his podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal, tax, or financial advice. Guest opinions represent the views of the individuals speaking, and references to companies or organizations do not imply endorsement by Ellenbecker Investment Group.