6 Compassionate Sanctuaries Giving Animals A Second Chance
Most people in today’s world take the confinement and consumption of livestock for granted as part of our food system. But a growing movement is working to change that attitude, creating sanctuaries to rescue and nurture animals that would otherwise be killed and eaten, and encouraging the public to view them as fellow creatures rather than commodities. The organizations reviewed here, arranged in no particular order, provide shelter and care to animals formerly destined for slaughter.
Rowdy Girl Excerpt:
#5 on the list is Rowdy Girl Sanctuary, originally a beef cattle ranch until founder Renee King-Sonnen became vegan, and raised enough money to buy her husband Tommy’s herd. The couple has converted to a plant-based lifestyle, transforming the ranch into a produce farm while continuing to save animals, from pigs raised for slaughter to roosters rescued from cockfighting rings. Visitors are welcome, giving people the chance to interact with and befriend non-human creatures.
In addition to providing a safe home for its rescues, Rowdy Girl works to transform cultural attitudes towards farming and meat. Its Rancher Advocacy Program aims to inspire others to convert animal agriculture operations into sanctuaries or plant-based farms, offering support and assistance for those making the transition. The Sanctuary produces videos and articles making the case for a switch to vegan living, as well as sharing inspirational literature through the Rowdy Reading Corner.