By Aimee Reynolds, SRAS Volunteer

2020 was a challenging year. The Covid-19 pandemic changed life as we knew it in so many ways. I was laid off from my job, and it seemed like everything shut down. I found myself reading many books and binge-watching Netflix, but I also scrolled Instagram and fell in love with a pig rescued by a farm sanctuary. This was my introduction to the plight of farmed animals and the existence of farm animal sanctuaries.

As I researched, I found myself shocked and fascinated and had a strong desire to help in any way I could. I started by joining a thirty-day vegan challenge to see if I could live without animal products. The good news was, I survived! I even thrived and decided to make this a permanent life change. But I also felt compelled to give back directly to the animals – even in a small way. Continuing my research, I was delighted to find Sale Ranch Animal Sanctuary right in my neck of the woods, and shortly after, I was signed up and volunteering.

Now I get to spend Monday mornings at the Ranch as an animal caregiver and cuddler. My day includes scrubbing out water dishes and scooping poop and spending time with the incredible residents of Sale Ranch. I had not been around farm animals previously, but I have learned so much from Jen and other volunteers in the past year.

One of the core beliefs at Sale Ranch is that animals are someone, not something. Every animal is so unique and has its own personality. For example, our potbelly pigs. Merle is reserved and grumpy most mornings, but he is always up for a treat! Etta is shy and sweet, and Janis will let me tickle her armpit and flop down for a belly rub and rubbing a pig’s belly is just pure joy!

I believed that volunteering is a great way to give back to the animals, but what was truly unexpected is that I am learning that the animals help me far more than I help them.

Like many people, I have struggled with career changes, financial worries, and even my mental health this past year. However, volunteering helps me regroup and heal from the week’s stress.

One morning following a challenging and arduous week, I took a rest on the turkey stoop where the Golden Girls–Blanchie B and Dorothy–live. Both girls joined me on my break and leaned against me for a cuddle. I could feel them breathing and hear their contented chirps and coos, I could also feel my heartbeat slow down, and the knot coiled in my stomach slowly eased. They gave me a gift that morning, and I will be forever thankful to them. This is just one of many examples of how animals have so much to teach us about living in the moment, forgiveness, inner peace, and love.

So, if you have ever considered volunteering at Sale Ranch, I encourage you to complete an application today. You will not only learn so much, but you’ll meet some incredible beings too. Just imagine, you may even get to rub a pig belly or cuddle a turkey! It’s the best thing I ever did, and I highly recommend

it!