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Understanding the mission of Happy Hooves Sanctuary
Happy Hooves Sanctuary, located in Kelowna, B.C., is a haven for animals that have faced abandonment or mistreatment. This sanctuary is not just a shelter; it is a place of healing and rehabilitation.
Co-founder Tristyn Hay emphasizes the importance of rescue work, stating, “Rescue is really, really important work, and it’s really hard work.” The sanctuary is dedicated to not only providing a safe space for these animals but also educating the public about the responsibilities that come with adopting them.
The financial challenges of animal care
Running a sanctuary comes with significant financial burdens. For instance, the hay wheels used to feed the animals cost $150 each and last only ten days. This translates into thousands of dollars in operating costs annually.
To address these challenges, Hay and her team are actively fundraising to improve their one-and-a-half-acre field, aiming to install an irrigation system that would alleviate some of the financial strain. “Even people who might know irrigation, and they might want to donate their time, we just need to get water in that field,” Hay explains, highlighting the need for community support.
The role of volunteers in animal rescue
Volunteers play a crucial role in the day-to-day operations of Happy Hooves Sanctuary. They help clean the pens, feed the animals, and ensure that the sanctuary runs smoothly. Sivon Austin, a dedicated volunteer, shares her experience, stating, “People, a lot of times, are scared of goats.
They don’t really understand them, but they are just like dogs, so I love getting to play with them.” This sentiment reflects a common misconception about farm animals, which are often viewed as intimidating or unapproachable.
The unique personalities of sanctuary animals
Each animal at Happy Hooves has its own personality, adding to the charm of the sanctuary. Kazandra Berrie, another volunteer, notes, “I feel like a lot of people don’t realize how different each chicken can be; they all have their own personalities, and it’s really fun.” This diversity among the animals not only enriches the lives of the volunteers but also helps to foster a deeper understanding of animal behavior and care.
Community engagement and open house events
To raise awareness and funds, Happy Hooves Sanctuary hosts events like their annual open house, which invites the public to meet the animals and learn about the sanctuary’s mission. This year’s event is scheduled for Sunday, April 27, and promises to be an engaging experience for attendees. By opening their doors to the community, the sanctuary aims to inspire more people to consider adopting animals and to support the ongoing efforts of animal rescue.
