Saturday, February 8, 2025

Rescued & Recovering: Help Us Welcome Beethoven 🐏💛

A New Beginning for Beethoven, the Miracle Lamb

A few days ago, we were contacted about a 6-week-old lamb in desperate need of sanctuary. His flock was attacked by dogs, which left nine sheep dead. In the attack, he lost both ears and suffered severe wounds. Initially presumed dead, he was placed in a box for burial, only to be found alive 36 hours later! Can you believe it?!? A vet provided antibiotics, but he needed further care, so the family contacted us. Upon arrival, our veterinarian debrided his wounds, administered antibiotics, bandaged him, and provided pain management. The violent shaking may have caused brain damage, leaving him partially or completely deaf. Despite everything, Beethoven is a fighter, and we are committed to giving him the best chance at recovery. Beethoven has a long road ahead, and he needs YOUR help. Please donate to support his ongoing wound care and recovery efforts—your generosity ensures he receives the treatment and love he deserves. Donate now and stay tuned for updates as we welcome Beethoven to his new life! If you are on Instagram, you can see a video of Beethoven here.

Caregiver Ally Shares a Special Moment with Magnolia

There’s nothing quite like a hug from a cow, and Magnolia made sure Caregiver Ally got an extra special one this week! This gentle, affectionate girl leaned in for the sweetest embrace, reminding us just how deep the bonds between animals and their caregivers can be. Magnolia’s trust and love are a testament to the power of living in a place where she is safe, cherished, and free to express her affection. These are the moments that make our work so rewarding! And if you want to see a video of a viral hug from Panda Bob, head over to Facebook, YouTube, or Instagram! On Instagram, Panda Bob “hugging” animal care director Meg has been viewed more than 1.4 million times!

Northern California: Adoptable Ducks in Need of Forever Homes

Meet Norris and Gaybeline, two 11-month-old Rouen-Pekin cross-male ducks searching for their perfect home—together or separately! These charming boys were hatched at their current home and, unfortunately, are too rough with the older, drake there. They would thrive in their own flock. Both are friendly with people and ready to waddle into a loving home. Located in Willits, California, we only consider adopters in northern California. If you’re interested in giving one or both of these ducks a fresh start, apply here: Adopt Norris & Gaybeline.

Animal Updates: Neville and Cho, our sweet 3-year-old Nigerian Dwarf goats, are still searching for a home (but we just received an adoption form, stay tuned!). They need an adopter who can provide a safe, loving space without young or small children. If you or someone you know can offer them a second chance at a happy life, apply here: Adopt Neville & Cho. Help us find these amazing animals the homes they deserve!

Early Bird Tickets On Sale Now!

Join us for Animal Place’s Annual Meat Out on March 22nd from 12–3 PM at our Grass Valley, CA sanctuary! For just $10 (Early Bird pricing until Feb. 22!), enjoy free food, animal time, live music, and a special goodie bag! Kids 2 & under are free. You’ll also get to enjoy a meet and greet with our adorable rescued farmed animals! Tickets WILL SELL OUT and are only available online—no sales at the door. Get your tickets now before prices go up!

Recipe of the Week 🍽
Gochujang Tempeh Wings

During Super Bowl LIX, 1.47 BILLION wings will be eaten—meaning over 730 million chickens will suffer and die just for game-day snacks. But you don’t need cruelty to enjoy crispy, saucy wings! Try this vegan Gochujang Tempeh Wings recipe from The Curious Chickpea, for a bold, flavorful alternative packed with protein and completely plant-based. Score big for animals and the planet by choosing plant-based wings this Super Bowl!

Industry News

Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) has been detected in commercial poultry flocks across six states—Indiana, North Carolina, Missouri, Delaware, California, and Ohio—impacting broilers, layers, turkeys, and ducks, according to the USDA’s latest reports.
Foster Farms will end fresh turkey processing operations and close its feed mill in Turlock, California, by May 9, 2025, citing changes in market demand.
The U.S. has reported its first outbreak of the rare H5N9 bird flu strain at a duck farm in Merced County, California, where nearly 119,000 birds were culled in December 2024, highlighting ongoing concerns over animal farming and its role in the spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI).

Sources for the above news include WATT Poultry, World Animal News

Fast Facts

Goats have accents! When goats move to new groups, their "voices" change slightly to match the sounds of their new herd.
Chickens dream just like humans! Research shows that chickens experience REM sleep, the stage where dreaming occurs.
According to the National Chicken Council's annual Wing Report, Americans are expected to consume a staggering 1.47 billion chicken wings during Super Bowl LIX.