The past two months have been incredibly challenging for all of us at Sale Ranch Animal Sanctuary. In this short span, we’ve had to say goodbye to four cherished residents—Alvin the turkey, Cece the goat, Kid Rock the billy goat, and Chancie the mustang. Their passing has left a profound void, not just in our hearts but also in the hearts of our supporters, volunteers, and founders, Jen and Dave. Even in the midst of this grief, we find ourselves reflecting on the immense impact these four souls had on our lives and the sanctuary they helped shape.
Chancie: The Heart of Sale Ranch
Chancie was more than just the first resident of Sale Ranch—he was the spark that ignited our journey. At 32 years old, Chancie lived a long and beautiful life, but it was his arrival at the ranch that truly set the stage for what was to come. When Chancie leaned his big head into Jen’s chest, choosing her as his family, she knew her life had changed in ways she could never have imagined. Growing up as a horse kid, Jen had always dreamt of rescuing and offering refuge to these majestic creatures. Welcoming Chancie home not only fulfilled that dream but also opened her eyes to the broader suffering of farm animals, inspiring us to build the sanctuary you see today.
Kid Rock: A Legacy of Love and Mischief
Just as Chancie shaped our beginnings, Kid Rock and his sister Clover transformed our mission. When we received a call about newborn goat babies found in a dairy dump pile, we were still in the early days of building our sanctuary. Kid Rock’s survival, despite the odds, was nothing short of a miracle. For over nine years, he brought endless joy, mischief, and love into our lives. His antics, his stubbornness, and his gentle spirit were a constant reminder of why we do this work. Even as his disease progressed and we knew our time with him was limited, Kid Rock’s spirit never wavered. And when the time came to walk him to heaven’s green pastures, we found solace in knowing he was reunited with Clover, running free once more.
Alvin: The Power of Kindness
Alvin’s story is a testament to the transformative power of kindness. Rescued from a life of unimaginable cruelty, Alvin found sanctuary at Sale Ranch, where he was loved not for what he could give, but for who he was. His stunning, shimmery feathers and gentle personality won the hearts of everyone he met. Alvin’s life mattered because someone chose kindness, and in doing so, they saved him. As we celebrate Alvin’s life, we are reminded that no act of compassion is ever too small—that choosing kindness can change the course of a life.
Cece: A Fight for Love
Cece’s time with us was too short, but it was filled with love and care. After suffering a brutal attack that left her gravely wounded, Cece came to us in desperate need of help. Despite our best efforts, we were unable to save her. But even in her final days, Cece was surrounded by love, and she knew she mattered. Her story underscores the urgency and importance of our work—reminding us that while we cannot save them all, we can give each one the love and dignity they deserve.
Reflecting on Their Legacy
As we say goodbye to these four incredible souls, we are reminded of why this work is so important. Chancie, Kid Rock, Alvin, and Cece each left an indelible mark on our hearts and on the sanctuary they helped shape. Their lives, though marked by pain and suffering before they came to us, were also filled with joy, love, and kindness. They inspired us to push forward, to grow, and to continue our mission of compassion.
It is never easy to say goodbye, but it is an honor to walk our friends home when their time comes. The loss is profound, but so too is the love they leave behind—a love that fuels our commitment to creating a kinder future for all beings.
A Call to Compassion
As you reflect on the lives of Alvin, Cece, Kid Rock, and Chancie, we invite you to carry their stories with you. Let them remind you of the power of kindness, the importance of compassion, and the impact that every life can have. At Sale Ranch, we will continue to honor their legacy by caring for those who need us most, and by spreading the message that kindness truly lives here.
Run free, dear friends. Until we meet again.
