April 17th marks 36 years since Farm Sanctuary's incorporation! To celebrate, we asked some of our long-time members and volunteers to share their favorite memories and reflect on what Sanctuary means to them.

On a late winter’s day, two young steers trekked through mud and melting snow towards a sunny patch of earth to warm their backs. They paused—one in front of the other—and closed their eyes to drink in the rare light. Then, the taller one leaned over his friend to plant slow, cleansing kisses along his neck and back. Grooming is a way that cows show trust and affection—and for these two, a sense of belonging at long last.

Travel + Leisure’s Global Vision Awards spotlight changemakers who are creating more sustainable and responsible travel products, practices, and experiences.

It was a Saturday in New York City and two separate but urgent situations were each unfolding: In one part of the city, rescuers were caring for chickens freed from a common religious ritual sacrifice. Farm Sanctuary, in collaboration with local activists, had already planned to take in a few birds rescued from this first case. That same day, though, other people discovered birds who’d fallen from a truck bound for a Brooklyn slaughterhouse. By the end of the day, we’d be arranging to help 41 chickens in need.

The backyard chicken industry is not an alternative to factory farming: it’s part of it. When you buy chicks online, from catalogs, or at feed stores, you’re supporting the very same types of facilities that supply large egg producers.

Missy pig, born on Halloween, had a grim and haunting start to life. She spent her days alone in a solitary pen—a nightmare for pigs, who are social beings and grow distressed without friends, enough space, and stimulation. People didn’t pay much attention to her, either. Now we know that Missy is a friendly and affectionate pig who enjoys attention (and deep belly rubs); however, the farmers who owned her didn’t see her as a friend but as a means of production.

Adopt a Farm Animal: George

Chrissy Tracey on recipe development, family history, and positivity

It's not often that a natural disaster can be viewed as a lifesaver, but for 17 lucky chickens, a deadly tornado that tore through a Georgia factory farm in September 2020 ultimately spared them from cruel treatment, terrible conditions, and eventual slaughter.

Mickey was born unable to stand up or walk. He came to Farm Sanctuary, and with the help of splints and physical therapy, his mobility has been gradually improving! ⁣