Seeking sanctuary: from farmed animal havens to furry homecomings

Meet Louise and Herbert ...

So, now we have five animals.

Stella Cat, George Dog, Murray Dog, and introducing …

… Louise and Herbert, a bonded brother and sister duo who, with us, are now in their fifth home.

Oh, little darlings.

For the record, adopting these precious babes was entirely Moore’s idea. Though there’s pretty much no universe in which I’d say no to new (old) Littles.

I could go on and on about how truly bananas it is to me when people “surrender” their animals for no good reason. These are individuals. They are deeply sensitive.

There’s no doubt that, with time, Louise and Herbert will thrive here with us. For now, we’re doting on them while reminding them that they’re safe. That they belong here. That we’re not going anywhere.

The sanctuary within: from chaos to comfort

Earlier today, as I stepped into our hundred-year-old home after running some errands — greeted by Stella Cat, George Dog, Murray Dog, and our newest additions, Louise Dog and Herbert Dog — I was overcome by a familiar feeling: one of sanctuary. The world outside seems to grow more chaotic and taxing with each passing day, and it's within these four walls and the presence of these beings that I find a semblance of peace.

It's often said that with age comes wisdom, but sometimes, it also brings a heightened sense of urgency. Perhaps, as we grow older, we become more acutely aware of the sands of time slipping through our fingers. It's no wonder then that I often find myself feeling as though we're running out of time and that, despite our best efforts, the world remains largely unchanged.

A couple of weeks ago, Mariann and I found solace at Farm Sanctuary, where, amidst the grazing cows and playful pigs, I hoped to renew a spirit worn down by the occasional weight of despair. Sanctuaries have always been a place of rejuvenation for me. But lately, it feels like even these havens are just temporary reprieves from a world spiraling out of control. Is it age that makes the burden feel heavier, or is the world truly becoming a more daunting place?

Yet, amidst this despair, the sanctuary and our five animals at home remind me of the potential for change and the pure, unconditional love that animals bring into our lives. They're living testaments to resilience, to the possibility of second chances, and to the idea that love can deeply heal.

The weight of time and the promise of renewal

But it's hard sometimes. The suffering of innocent animals and the seemingly insurmountable challenges of our times can be overwhelming.

It’s then that I turn to the very creatures who embody hope. Louise and Herbert, with their history of displacement, are a testament to the idea that even after the darkest times, there's a genuine chance for renewal. Their resilience, like that of the animals at Farm Sanctuary, offers a beacon of hope.

It’s essential to find those sanctuaries, both physical and metaphorical, that renew our spirits. Even when things are grim, the simple, pure love of an animal or the tranquility of a sanctuary can remind us of the beauty that still exists in the world.

Also, they are so damn cute. Seriously, you have to meet them.

xo,

jazz

P.S. I put together an audio postcard of Farm Sanctuary while I was there, which aired on WXXI. I hope you take a listen!