It's not secret that I'm a HUGE animal person. A few months ago, I had the amazing opportunity to visit
Chenoa Farms, with my good friend,
Diane. Chenoa Farms is owned and operated by a Veterinarian, Dr. Teti, who has devoted his life, and his farm, to rescue animals. Many of the animals I met had been abused, abandoned and neglected, yet were so amazingly friendly, sweet and gentle. Diane works with the animals to rehabilitate them from their abusive situations, and get them comfortable and trusting of humans again.
The turkey developed a crush on me, and followed me everywhere. He even defended me to the curious Emu, although I don't there was any real threat. The Emu came over to see me, and my "boyfriend" got a little jealous!
Pigs, cows and other livestock live on the farm, rescued from slaughter houses, animal testing, cramped mills or cages, or abusive situations. They are very fearful of strangers, but after a while, warm up and become friendly!
This little guy, this adorable little goat was the sweetest little thing! As a baby, he had been caught in a fence which damaged his horns, and left for dead. Luckily, someone found him, got him the medical attention he needed and brought him to Chenoa. He followed me around after the turkey grew tired of me!
These horses, a mother and son, were so beautiful and friendly, and quite curious about the camera!
There are TONS of rabbits at Chenoa. Many are bought as Easter or Birthday gifts for children and then abandoned or sent to shelters. They seemed pretty happy to have a large, safe area to play, eat and rest.
The pony was a pet once, but when it was discovered that he had a condition that would require special medication and diet, he was abandoned. Such a sweetheart, we nicknamed him Sebastian Bach because of his sweet 80's hair...
There are no words to describe the beauty of
Chenoa, and it exists merely by a handful of donors, the compassion and kindness of Dr. Teti and family, who never turn away an animal in need. The farm, an all volunteer non-profit, works with at-risk youth, bringing them to the farm to learn about animal welfare and participate on the farm in daily chores. Many of the young men and women are former drug addicts, gang members, and even former animal abusers. The program is designed to encourage positive interaction with animals to help instill compassion, improve patience and help bridge the gap between animals and humans. Chenoa is always looking for volunteers and donors to help maintain the farm and improve the conditions of the barn and animals housing, as well as to build, improve and expand necessary structures & operations so that more animals may be saved and given a safe haven and a compassionate second chance.
