Sunday, August 12, 2012

Life at the farm

I've been waiting all summer for a break in my schedule (and a break in the heat... but that's another story) to take a road trip up to Woodstock, NY to visit Woodstock Farm Animal Sanctuary.  That little wedge of time finally arrived this weekend, so I decided to hop in my car and make the drive.


Woodstock FAS is a safe haven for cows, pigs, chickens, turkeys, sheep, and goats who have been rescued from factory farms and cases of abuse, neglect, and abandonment.  The non-profit sanctuary is located at the foot of the beautiful Catskill Mountain range just outside of the peace-centered art community of Woodstock, NY.


When you visit the farm you can take a guided tour of the property, meet the resident farm animals, and hear their stories.  Some are even curious and friendly enough to come right up to you to say "hello."


There's something about meeting these animals face to face that really puts our industrialized food chain into perspective.  These are the lucky few who made it out.  They are the ghosts in the machine, the ambassadors for the millions of others who will live out their brief lives in horrendous conditions, never knowing love or companionship.


When you see these animals in person, you realize they are each "someone," not "something." They have lives that are meaningful to them.  They enjoy fresh air, clean water, healthy food, and most of all, freedom, just like we do.


I hope these photos inspire you to take a visit this summer.  Or share a feast with the turkeys for the annual Thanksliving compassionate Thanksgiving gathering in the fall.  It's a celebration not to be missed.


Take a peek inside the farm here.












No comments: