Every once and a while, you find yourself somewhere, that changes you for the better, and inspires you to do more. This is exactly what happened to us, during our visit to Farm Sanctuary in Watkins Glen, NY.
We made the 6 hour journey, with 3 kids fighting in the backseat and only 2 quick rest stops. Needless to say, all 5 of us (my mom included) were super anxious to get to the farm!! We had been planning this trip since last summer, and our excitement was rising!
We were hoping to make it there before 3pm, which is when they give the last tour of the day. Thankfully we made great time, and arrived shortly after 2:00. We parked the car and entered “The People Barn” to check in. We then went to check out our cabin. TOO CUTE!! There were 3 little red cabins, side by side, just steps away from the main building. The best part of all was the view. All you could see was beautiful open farm land, with barns and of course animals!
We then took the farm tour, which was included in our B&B stay. A sweet and knowledgeable young woman named Renee, was our guide. We visited with the cows, goats, turkeys, ducks, chickens and PIGGIES!! All of the animals were relaxed, content, and many were affectionate! It was easy to see that these creatures were appreciative of the love and respect they are given. Most have come from abusive situations, so they realize how wonderful their new lives truly are. This experience makes you understand that animals are really no different than us. They want affection, they require humane treatment and they deserve respect. They feel pain, fear & love. In my mind, anyone who hurts an animal, is no different from someone who hurts a human being.
I encourage any person who has a love for animals, to visit Farm Sanctuary. Whether you are a Vegan, or a meat eater, this is a place you will feel inspired & empowered. I especially encourage Vegans, who have a non-Vegan spouse, friends or family members, to take a trip here together. You may be surprised what happens…… My mother came as a Vegetarian (she loves her cheese) and left as a Vegan. (She learned how her love of cheese was fueling the veal industry)
I entered Farm Sanctuary as a Vegan, but I left with a new sense of “being”. I was enlightened, empowered and educated. How many family trips offer you that?
Please check out www.farmsanctuary.org for information, ideas, updates, and ways you can help rescued farm animals.
The Vegan Mom 
I’ve been following your blog and I totally agree that the Farm Sanctuary is like a religious experience! We’ve been there twice and it’s so difficult to find the words to describe it. It was incredible…
Oh I know!!!!!! My mom was so moved by the experience, that she is bringing my carnivore stepdad there in the fall. And my 4 year old felt such a connection to the animals, that she cried uncontrollably for a 1/2 hour before we left. She has never done this before, on ANY vacation! I wish that the rest of humanity could feel this connection to animals & the earth…..
If you stay at the b&b, are you allowed to walk around the farm and spend time with the animals unattended? Or can you only visit them as part of a tour?
You can only visit with the animals while on a guided tour. You get a private tour included with your B&B stay, and you are welcome to join in on any public tours. 🙂