Welcoming Winter

Come wintertime, the animals at our New York shelter manage the cold a lot like us — from snuggling together in warm, straw barns to donning winter coats! Sometimes, we catch a few magical moments of playful dashing through the snow-covered hills.

With temperatures dropping and holidays on the horizon, most of us are ready to enjoy the staples of the season at home by the fire (or outside in the snow). We wanted to be part of your plans! Here are a few ways to keep the spirit of sanctuary in your life this December.

Your Sanctuary Snowglobe

Our live cameras bring the magic and joy of sanctuary to you — wherever you are. Grab your favorite holiday treat, cozy up by the fire, and tune into our New York shelter while it's closed for the winter. See the snow-covered hills and animals making merry — whether cuddled up in the sheep barn or out in the cow pasture. It’s almost like your personal sanctuary snowglobe — no shaking required.

The Wonders of Winter

While public tours of our 275-acre New York shelter have ended for the season, you can still book a private tour. Gather your flock and witness firsthand how our nearly 600 animals enjoy living free from harm during the wonders of winter. Email [email protected] to book your private tour (weather permitting).

If you’re on the west coast, our Acton, California shelter is open year-round with guided tours every Saturday and Sunday. Book a tour to meet cows, pigs, sheep, goats, and other farmed species. Though you’re less likely to see these residents enjoying a snowy day, their inspiring stories and unique personalities are sure to fill you with the warmth of the season.

Have Yourself a Merry Little Birthday

Maggie goat is turning 7 this month! She was born on Christmas Eve in 2015 — two months after her mother, Olive's rescue. Olive was one of more than 170 animals freed from a nightmarish scene of neglect. It was a massive operation that involved multiple sanctuaries and humane officers from the Hudson Valley SPCA.

Maggie's experience is rare for farm animals. Unlike her mother — and most animals raised for food — she's never faced harm or exploitation. Instead, she was born into the warmth, love, and safety of sanctuary. Maggie was a playful baby, often jumping (nearly flying) in the pasture, as pictured above. These days, she loves exploring and snuggling with her best friend: her mom.

Give the Power of Sanctuary

Home is always a special place, but especially so during the holidays. Without tenderhearted supporters like you, farm animals wouldn’t have the chance to escape exploitation and experience sanctuary — a warm, safe place they can call home.

This month only, you can symbolically adopt Spurlino steer, Pippa lamb, or Allan pig and continue making the gift of sanctuary possible for other animals still in need. Right now, all gifts will be MATCHED — up to $10,000.

Photo Credit: Kevin Dynia and Courtesy of Chrissy Tracey

Orange Coconut French Toast

If you’re looking for a perfect, simple recipe to wow at holiday brunch, this vegan french toast recipe will not disappoint! Developed by vegan chef Chrissy Tracey, this showstopping dish is a nod to island flavors and relies on warming spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Is anyone else hungry?

From our sanctuary to yours ...

we wish you a peaceful, compassionate, and joyous holiday season.