10 Amazing Farm Animal Sanctuaries You Should Support

When you think about animal sanctuaries, chances are good that those for exotic animals and endangered species come to mind first. That’s natural, but it’s important to understand that what we consider “normal” animals also need a safe place to call home, where they can be protected and enjoy life. Animals like goats, pigs, horses, cows, chickens, turkeys, and ducks are no less deserving of protection than lions and tigers, rhinos, and zebras. Here are 10 amazing animal farm sanctuaries that are deserving of your support for the incredible work they do.

1. Woodstock Farm Sanctuary

Woodstock Farm Sanctuary provides protection for some of the most overlooked animals such as cows, chickens, sheep, and the like. The sanctuary “envisions a peaceful world rooted in respect and justice for all living beings”. Located in High Falls, NY, this is a sprawling property that offers tours and the chance to interact with animals, but there is also an opportunity to intern, and The Gray Barn offers accommodations right on the property.

2. Sunny Meadow Sanctuary

Located in Massachusetts, Sunny Meadow Sanctuary provides protection for both farm animals and wildlife. It was founded in 2009 when two female goats were rescued, and has since grown into something so much more. A visit here lets you get to know animals as wide ranging as cows and turtles, pigs and deer, cats, sheep, and so many more. This 501c3 nonprofit organization accepts donations, provides tours, and also hosts events throughout the course of the year.

3. Poplar Spring Animal Sanctuary

Covering over 400 acres, Poplar Spring Animal Sanctuary is a large operation that is home to chickens, sheep, cows, horses, turkeys, and more. Wildlife can also find sanctuary here. The organization’s goal is to provide care and rehabilitation for animals, but those that have been abused and abandoned can also find a permanent home where they can live their best life, without fear of ultimately being sacrificed in the food industry. The sanctuary also offers tours and educational programs to help others understand the need to care for animals.

4. Animal Place

Animal Place is an organization that focuses on providing a sanctuary and safe place for farm animals and other creatures, as well as education and advocacy. Visitors can take a tour or even intern or hire on with the organization. They also sponsor rescues and adoptions on the 600-acre operation. Located in Northern California, the property is a permanent tourist destination spot and is home to over 400 different animals.

5. SASHA Farm

SASHA stands for sanctuary and safe haven for animals, and SASHA Farm has offered just that since 2001. The farm is also named after the founders’ dearly departed dog, Sasha. This 501c3 nonprofit organization is currently home to over 200 animals, including sheep, goats, horses, pigs, chickens, and other farm animals that typically receive no protection or advocacy. A tour gives you the chances to meet and interact with the animals, but the farm also offers ongoing events throughout the year, as well as outreach, adoption, and other programs.

6. Catskill Animal Sanctuary

The Catskill Animal Sanctuary is located on 150 acres of land in the Catskill Mountains. It offers a home for 300 animals, including both farm animals and wildlife. You can donate, arrange for tours, and even book a stay in The Homestead, which was built in 1813. In addition to providing care for animals, Catskill Animal Sanctuary also offers educational and outreach programs, including information about how to eat kindlier, and even how to live a vegan lifestyle. School and group visits are not just allowed, but encouraged.

7. Rooterville Animal Sanctuary

On 30 acres located in beautiful Melrose, Florida, the Rooterville Animal Sanctuary offers care and protection for some of the most overlooked animals in America. It’s a top pig sanctuary, but is also home to other farm animals such as turkeys, horses, and cows. You’ll find a wide range of farm animals here. This nonprofit offers tours, educational programs, outreach options, and you can also go camping on property or book the B&B for a few more creature comforts during your stay. During a visit, make sure to stop by The Pink Pigs, A Compassionate Boutique, which is the organization’s gift shop.

8. Ching Sanctuary

Ching Farm Rescue & Sanctuary is located in the stunning Utah countryside and offers animal advocacy, farm animal rescue, education and outreach programs, and placement services, as well. Volunteer opportunities abound, where you can help to care for the property’s temporary and permanent residents, including horses, goats, cows, sheep, pigs, and so many others.

9. Pigs Peace Sanctuary

Located in Seattle, Washington, Pigs Peace Sanctuary is “a safe haven for pigs and their friends”. This nonprofit organization provides a caring, safe home for unwanted, abused, and neglected animals with 39 acres of space for them to roam. In addition to a loving home, the organization also offers medical care, healthy feeding, social interaction and integration, and more. Guests are invited to visit and explore the property, and are also encouraged to volunteer and help care for these intelligent, compassionate animals.

10. Whisper’s Sanctuary

You’ll find Whisper’s Sanctuary on 17 acres at the Double R Heart Ranch in southern Arizona. The sanctuary is dedicated to providing protection and peace for abused, neglected, and abandoned animals. Unlike some sanctuaries, this one focuses on providing each animal with a job, according to their unique talents and abilities. Some animals act as companions for other animals, while others provide therapy for humans and much more. The organization accepts donations and volunteers, while providing outreach and education programs, as well.

Plan Your Visits and Support

While there are plenty of sanctuaries and protected areas serving wildlife and exotic animals, fewer options exist for farm animals, as well as dogs, cats, and other “everyday” creatures with which we share our lives. The 10 organizations above offer a rare chance for these animals to live life as nature intended while providing care, food, and rehabilitation for abused and neglected animals. Visit one, or several, and help them spread the message of love.