“When I met Sandy, she had been really mistreated by humans,” remembers team member Jessica Due. “She climbed into my lap despite all of those things. That takes a lot of courage.”

Sandy came to Farm Sanctuary in 2016, featherless.

Her back was so bruised that it seemed her skin was naturally blue. Her feet were deeply infected, prohibiting walking.

She was terrified of humans.

We immediately treated her with antibiotics and pain medication, wrapping her foot for comfort. After a radiograph revealed scar tissue, we operated on it. Within a few weeks, her back started to heal. Her feathers regrew in lush, white plumes.

Sandy has recovered brilliantly. She is now bright and affectionate—dubbed “The Sweetheart” of our Southern California flock due to her loving personality.

Knowing Sandy, it’s hard to accept that over 46 million turkeys like her are killed for Thanksgiving celebrations. This somber reality can overshadow even the most positive values this holiday is meant to exemplify.

But you can change the life of a turkey this year. “Adopt” Sandy with a one-time $35 donation.

When you do, you’ll receive a personalized adoption certificate with her story and photo. You’ll also be automatically signed up for Sanctuary, our deeply reported, beautifully photographed biannual print magazine.

Sandy “The Sweetheart”

Sandy survived a fire; after being brought to us with a painful foot infection, she’s now healed completely and loves to lounge in people’s laps.

Your symbolic adoption has a very real impact: it allows us to provide individualized medical care for Sandy, and advocate for turkeys like her.

“What I love about turkeys is that despite the fact that they're so misunderstood, and despite the neglect and horrible things that humans do to them, when you show them love and compassion, they have in their hearts the ability to show it right back,” says Due.

Although Sandy has residual issues, we continue to monitor her carefully to ensure she’s comfortable, content, and healthy. Your gift will not only support her care, but will let us continue to rescue others like her—and tell their stories.

Adopt Sandy today.

P.S. In addition to Sandy, you can also sponsor her friends! Meet all of the turkeys you can adopt this year: