How Volunteering at a Farm Sanctuary Changed My View on Animals

Written by peta2 Youth Advisory Board member Lilliana

I’ve always admired animals, but didn’t realize how similar animals used for food are to those who share our homes until I spent time around them.

PETA owned image for the Farm Sanctuary article
When she was only a few weeks old, Daisy Lou was crammed into a semi truck full of baby piglets. Brave Daisy Lou jumped off the semi down to the road below. She ended up at IFS, where she became fast friends with Tulip, another piglet who also jumped from a semi. Now, Daisy spends her days bathing in the sunlight, enjoying lots of belly rubs and treats!

I joined LEAP (Leaders for Ethics, Animals, and the Planet) at the Iowa Farm Sanctuary (IFS) in the fall of 2023. Throughout the program, a handful of teens and I worked with farmed animals in a sanctuary setting. I soon realized that these animals are just as smart and unique as the cats and dogs we love, so I went vegan shortly after joining the program.

PETA owned image for the Farm Sanctuary article
In the summer of 2024, a water buffalo was spotted running around a suburban Iowa town. The local law enforcement chased him through neighborhoods before eventually shooting him in the abdomen. Finally, IFS was able to secure the water buffalo, now named Phill, and kept him with two others. Phill passed away due to complications from his bullet wound after a few beautiful months at IFS, but his companions Jane and Sal continue to remind people of his heroic story.

The animals at the sanctuary have their own personalities and value their lives, and I loved getting to know them and hearing their inspiring stories. I also saw the sanctuary team work hard to keep the animals comfortable with the fresh water, hay, food, and medical care they need. Doing “chores” at the sanctuary soon became my favorite time of the week. The most rewarding part is seeing the animals cuddle up and take a nap in their clean stall at the end of the day.

PETA owned image for the Farm Sanctuary article
In December of 2024, a family member told me about a baby goat who was born with a condition called “parrot mouth.” Due to his condition, Juniper could not be used in shows, so he was facing slaughter. I was able to rescue him and bring him to IFS, where his personality bloomed! Juniper became fast friends with a lamb, Suzy, and a three-legged goat, Maria. He’s a very vocal boy and loves being wherever humans are. I feel so lucky to have been able to help him!

Another important part of farm sanctuaries is public outreach. During the summer months, Iowa Farm Sanctuary hosts Sanctuary Strolls, giving the public the chance to meet the animals and learn how making compassionate choices in our lives helps others just like them.

PETA owned image for the Farm Sanctuary article
Maria came to IFS after she lost a hind leg due to a spider bite. Maria arrived around the time I first started volunteering, and we quickly bonded. Now, every time I volunteer, Maria is my shadow, following me from stall to stall!

Volunteering at IFS is one of the best decisions I’ve ever made, and it has helped me grow in so many ways. If you have a farm sanctuary near you, I encourage you to visit and consider volunteering. I promise you won’t regret it!

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