A Mother’s Courage: Nirva Survived Cruelty and Gave Birth at Sanctuary

Portrait of rescued sheep Nirva looking directly at camera in front of red barns, hay, and green pasture at Farm Sanctuary Adopt Me

A Mother’s Courage: Nirva Survived Cruelty and Gave Birth at Sanctuary

Nirva

Rescued: October 13, 2023
Personality: Loving and gentle
Favorite pastime: Snuggling with snacks

Adopt Nirva

Nirva sheep was pregnant and clinging to life at a farm where over 200 animals were suffering from neglect. Thanks to a massive cruelty case and rescue operation, Nirva is safe, and her daughter will know a lifetime of sanctuary.

This holiday season, join our Adopt a Farm Animal program and help provide lifelong sanctuary for rescued animals like Nirva and her lamb, Ashley. They’re not just home for the holidays—they have a haven for life. Will you make a special recurring gift today?

Today, Nirva’s life could not be more different from the horrors she once faced—and our Adopt a Farm Animal supporters are key in helping us save animals like Nirva from cruelty and provide them with hope and healing.

On the North Carolina farm where Nirva was once kept, the suffering was so grave that the property’s owner was charged with 90 counts of felony cruelty. Some animals were starving or sick. Sadly, some had already died when help arrived, but the survivors found a second chance. 

Farm Sanctuary and several other groups collaborated to save as many lives as possible. Ten sheep came to our New York shelter, where Nirva would soon give us a delightful surprise.

When she first arrived, Nirva was so emaciated that we had no idea she was pregnant, but our caregivers entered her barn one morning to find little Ashley lamb happily snuggled among the herd. Nearly two years later, mother and daughter are most often side by side, cuddling in the comfort of family. It’s a joy seeing that Ashley is just as sweet and gentle as her mom.

Ashley lamb and her mom Nirva

Nirva is now available to sponsor through our Adopt a Farm Animal Program. The adoption is symbolic, but your impact is real. Sponsor Nirva now, and with a monthly or annual recurring donation, you’ll support the lifelong care we provide to her, Ashley, and hundreds of other rescued residents at Farm Sanctuary as we also work to defend billions of farm animals from cruelty. 

As Nirva’s adopter, you’ll get photos and updates revealing her life at sanctuary, and we think you’ll love her as much as we all do. 

“In my first month here, Nirva has truly stolen my heart,” said Wellness Manager, Andrea. “She has such a calm and kind energy and is always so sweet with everyone.”

Farm Sanctuary Logo

When you adopt a rescued farm animal through Farm Sanctuary’s AAFA program this holiday season, you’re not just making a donation—you’re joining a compassionate community committed to providing lifelong care, telling powerful stories of survival, and advocating for a more just food system.

All adopters will receive a digital adoption certificate featuring beautiful Nirva and the moving story of how she found freedom and family.

For farm animals like Nirva, you are the difference between cruelty and compassion—and that is a gift like no other.

Adopt. Protect. Love.

Rescued sheep Nirva stands in front of red barns, hay, and pasture at Farm Sanctuary

Sanctuary is a lifelong promise. It’s daily care, food, and shelter for animals who have endured the devastating cruelty of the animal agriculture industry. Knowing that we can count on the monthly support of kindhearted people like you helps us care for residents like Nirva and advocate for change on behalf of billions of animals like her. 

Sponsor Nirva now, and we’ll send you an adoption certificate featuring her photo and story—because your support helps us keep the promise of sanctuary.

Adopt Nirva

This campaign invites you to make an ongoing monthly gift (beginning at $25) or an annual commitment (beginning at $300). Your continued support truly helps sustain lifelong sanctuary, and we’re so grateful you’re part of it.