In Memory of Carlos Arreola, Founder
(12/27/1941 ~ 11/19/2019)

The late Dr. Carlos Arreola established the sanctuary in 1999 as a home for burros targeted for eradication from their Grand Canyon home. Soon after the sanctuary opened its doors, an expanded mission of helping animals in distressed situations was undertaken.

Dr. Arreola, founder of Little Woman Home for Animals, was the chief caregiver and hero to his animal guests, assisted by a small but very dedicated group of capable volunteers helping carry on the mission. He was a retired Veterans Administration Counselor and Vietnam Combat-Wounded Veteran. After Vietnam, his focus shifted to rescuing animals and wildlife. The name "Little Woman" came from a precious Chihuahua rescued over 35 years ago from an abusive situation, the first of so many animals cared for over the years. And the rest, as they say, is history.

Dr. Arreola passed on November 19, 2019, but the principles and vision he aspired to at our animal sanctuary continue.

The first guests at LWHA

  Little Woman, our namesake