Why we are here..
Farm animals are global. They are not endangered, exotic or wild. They are animals who are born and raised for their meat and milk, and throughout the world very often do this with a minimum of care.
Care costs time and money, and they’re not considered to be worth either. They are just another product, although unlike other food products such as grains, fruits and vegetables, they bleed when they are injured. They die from fear and stress. They suffer distress when their young are taken away from them. They can be kept until they are too old to stand as long as they can still produce milk or offspring. They can then be travelled hundreds of miles, enduring awful conditions, to be slaughtered without pre-stunning.
There are very few places throughout the world where farm animals can find sanctuary to be able to live out their lives in peace, to be treated with kindness and respect. We watch these animals become comfortable and confident. We see their characters develop. We admire their intelligence and the way they embrace their peaceful surroundings. We watch them begin to play and finally become content.
They form close companionships and soon recognise the people who care for them and look after them. They ask for very little. For us it’s a pleasure and a privilege to be part of their daily lives.
This is why we are here.
Joanna Lumley our patron
“When I saw the dreadful photographs that Janet had taken in markets I wept. Sick little orphan baby lambs, some of them only a few days old, freezing cold and hungry, some of who died before they could receive veterinary care. Thin and emaciated old sheep with crippled feet, at the end of their useful life being sold to go forward for Halal slaughter. Frightened, bewildered, gentle cattle being beaten over their heads and backs with thick sticks. Old pigs, so stressed by their surroundings they chewed the bars of their pens until their mouths bled.
I had no idea that this kind of thing went on in this country, we’re known as a nation of animal lovers. Janet asked for my help and support in any way possible to stand up for farm animals, to help give them a voice and to raise public awareness about farm animal welfare. I was happy to become the patron of the then newly formed Farm Animal Sanctuary.
All farm animals are sentient beings, they experience pain and fear, all species are caring, protective mothers and they all deserve so much better.
It’s such a joy to see the animals who have found their way to the Sanctuary. They know they are safe. They look contented, confident and peaceful, the young ones so full of life. Not enough people seem to care about them, and there are not enough places for them to go. We do need your help and your support to keep the Sanctuary going, please don’t forget them. Thank you.”
