Ethan
Ethan’s story
In the spring of 2019, Angela and her two babies Ethan and Michaela were rescued from a severe hoarding case. When this little family arrived, they were all weak and malnourished – especially Angela. She was so underweight that while the shelter team immediately put her on a diet to gain weight and consume plenty of nutrients, they bottle fed the babies because Angela’s body wasn’t producing enough milk for them.
Ethan outside grazing on a sunny summer day.
Ethan enjoying a day outside covered in hay.
Angela enjoyed as much food as her heart desired and was beginning to adjust to her new home knowing both her babies were safe. She eventually was able to make more milk for her babies, and everyone grew stronger together.
It’s been a few years since this little family was liberated together and they’re doing great. Ethan is especially bold and friendly. He likes to free roam the Sanctuary with another young sheep, Gray. His little sister is never far behind though!
Ethan with sister Michaela, always by their mother Angela’s side, spring 2019
Ethan hanging out with Ashton in the sheep barn.
Want to sponsor Ethan? Click below!
Want to learn about our other sheep residents? Click below!
Angela
Angela’s story
In the spring of 2019, Angela and her two babies Ethan and Michaela were rescued from a severe hoarding case. When this little family arrived, they were all weak and malnourished – especially Angela. She was so underweight that while the shelter team immediately put her on a diet to gain weight and consume plenty of nutrients, they bottle fed the babies because Angela’s body wasn’t producing enough milk for them.
Angela with her two young babies, Ethan and Michaela.
Angela grazing on a cloudy day.
Angela enjoyed as much food as her heart desired and was beginning to adjust to her new home knowing both her babies were safe. She eventually was able to make more milk for her babies, and everyone grew stronger together.
It’s been a few years since this little family was liberated together and they’re doing great. Angela is named after Angela Davis, Black political activist, philosopher, academic, and author.
Angela having a snack in the sheep barn.
Want to sponsor Angela? Click below!
Want to learn about our other sheep residents? Click below!
Gray
Gray’s story
Gray and his sister Suzanne were rescued from a hoarding case in December 2018. When they arrived, they were quite shy and did not trust humans – we can’t blame them after all they went through.
Gray outside the sheep barn.
Gray asking for more scratches in the sheep barn.
We’ve really seen their personalities blossom in their time with us. Gray has become very intrigued by meeting people and loves to free roam the Sanctuary with his sheep friend Ethan.
Want to sponsor Gray? Click below!
Want to learn about our other sheep residents? Click below!
Suzanne
Suzanne’s story
Suzanne and her brother Gray were rescued from a hoarding case in December 2018. When they arrived, they were quite shy and did not trust humans – we can’t blame them after all they went through.
Young Suzanne and Gray.
Suzanne in the sheep barn.
We’ve really seen their personalities blossom in their time with us. Suzanne is still more reserved than her brother Gray, but they are both super bonded with the sheep herd and are growing up to be bold, loving sheep.
Suzanne grazing outside.
Want to sponsor Suzanne? Click below!
Want to learn about our other sheep residents? Click below!
SHERMAN
Sherman’s story
In 2019, a supporter of the Woodstock Sanctuary found Sherman just outside of a live-kill market, where animals are crammed into cages before being killed at a young age. The animal lover removed Sherman from immediate danger, then reached out to us for help. Some of our dedicated caregiving team rushed to the aid of this brave rabbit. Caregivers were heartbroken by all Sherman had gone through, as they quickly administered urgent medical protocol. They performed a health diagnostic, immediately testing Sherman for the diseases and parasites that often result from this severe level of mistreatment.
Sherman with Shelter Director Hervé when he first arrived at Woodstock Sanctuary
Isabel (left), Leah (middle), and Sherman (right) cuddling on a chilly fall morning
Sherman spends his time hopping through the grass and digging in the dirt. After experiencing the filthy, crowded, and inhumane conditions of a live-kill market, we’re so happy that Sherman can live peacefully in sanctuary.
Sadly, Sherman’s friend Isabel passed away in 2022, and Leah passed away in 2024. Sherman will forever remember both of these amazing companions.
Want to sponsor Sherman? Click below!
Want to learn about our other bunny residents? Click below!
Hootie
Hootie’s story
The director of a local horse sanctuary called us asking for help with a rabbit named Hootie, who was in their care. Hootie’s rabbit companion had just passed away and he was very lonely. The sanctuary was so heartbroken that Hootie lost his best friend. They were happy to care for him, but worried that he would be lonely all by himeslf. Hootie was happily transferred to Woodstock Sanctuary, where he is now best friends with a sweet rabbit named Snowbunny! Hootie and Snowbunny spend their days snuggling in the sunshine, hopping through the grass, and snacking on dandelion greens.
Hootie and Snowbunny cuddling in their hutch.
Hootie relaxing in her pasture in the shade.
Want to sponsor Hootie? Click below!
Want to learn about our other bunny residents? Click below!
WOODY
Woody’s Story
Woody was rescued with his best friend Colin in May 2018 from a large-scale New York dairy farm. Like all male dairy calves, Colin and Woody were taken away from their mothers shortly after birth so that the milk meant for them could be used for human consumption. Male calves are considered worthless in the dairy industry and they are either outright killed or sold for cheap meat. Thankfully, we were able to rescue these two young boys and bring them home to Woodstock Sanctuary, but first they both needed to go to an animal hospital for urgent medical care.
Woody and Colin when they first arrived at Woodstock Farm Sanctuary 2018.
Shelter Director Hervé with young Woody at the animal hospital 2018.
Woody tested positive for salmonella at the hospital and since the two were rescued together, we gave both Colin and Woody the best medical care to overcome this dangerous infection. Colin and Woody arrived at Woodstock Sanctuary and were in isolation for about one month. Our staff all stepped up together to make sure these boys were adjusting to their new home - this included frequent bottle feedings (even a 1 AM shift!) and round-the-clock care.
In June of 2018, Colin and Woody were introduced to the cow pasture for the very first time. It was amazing to see them run around, youthful and excited. They had overcome so much already — Being separated from their mothers, neglect, and a dangerous infection.
Now almost fully grown, Colin and Woody are the best of friends and love their life at Woodstock Farm Sanctuary. They can be found causing mischief in the woods together or laying by each other under the sun.
Young Woody and Colin just arriving at Woodstock Sanctuary.
Executive Director Rachel with Woody in winter 2019.
Woody is named after Woody Harrelson, long-time vegan and activist for animal rights and the planet.
Take the pledge to be dairy free for cows like Woody. Visit our campaign page www.meetjo.org to learn more.
Handsome Woody relaxing in the woods of his pasture in the summer of 2020.
Click below to sponsor Woody!
Want to learn about our other cow residents? Click below!
COLIN
Meet Colin
Colin was rescued with his best friend Woody in May 2018 from a large-scale New York dairy farm. Like all male dairy calves, Colin and Woody were taken away from their mothers shortly after birth so that the milk meant for them could be used for human consumption. Male calves are considered worthless in the dairy industry and they are either outright killed or sold for cheap meat. Thankfully, we were able to rescue these two young boys and bring them home to Woodstock Sanctuary, but first they both needed to go to an animal hospital for urgent medical care.
Colin and Woody as they first arrived at Woodstock Farm Sanctuary 2018.
Shelter Director Hervé with young Colin while in ISO 2018.
Woody tested positive for salmonella at the hospital and since the two were rescued together, we gave both Colin and Woody the best medical care to overcome this dangerous infection. Colin and Woody arrived at Woodstock Sanctuary and were in isolation for about one month. Our staff all stepped up together to make sure these boys were adjusting to their new home - this included frequent bottle feedings (even a 1 AM shift!) and round-the-clock care.
In June of 2018, Colin and Woody were introduced to the cow pasture for the very first time. It was amazing to see them run around, youthful and excited. They had overcome so much already — being separated from their mothers, neglect, and a dangerous infection.
Now almost fully grown, Colin and Woody are the best of friends and love their life at Woodstock Farm Sanctuary. They can be found causing mischief in the woods together or laying by each other under the sun.
Colin’s first arrival at Woodstock Farm Sanctuary
Volunteer playing music for Colin and cow residents!
Colin is named after Colin Kaepernick, activist and vegan, in honor of his civil rights work and advocacy for black lives.
Take the pledge to be dairy free for cows like Colin. Visit our campaign page www.meetjo.org to learn more.
Colin (left) and Woody (right) in 2019
Click below to sponsor Colin!
Want to learn about our other cow residents? Click below!
Oscar
Oscar’s story
In the spring of 2018, Woodstock Sanctuary welcomed three new potbelly pig residents: Oscar, Leroy, and Lola. They were rescued from a severe neglect and hoarding case. The three pigs were given a terrible diet of dog food, table scraps, and even cake. Potbellied pigs need to be on restricted diets or they become very unhealthy very quickly. After years of neglect, Oscar, Leroy, and Lola were so overweight that they were “mechanically blind,” meaning that they couldn’t see their new home. Leroy was especially fearful and stayed close to Oscar and Lola for reassurance. He also could barely walk when he arrived because of his weight.
Slowly, with patience and time, the pigs adjusted to their new home. Our caregiving team put them through fitness plans and on a very healthy (and pig appropriate!) diet to help them lose the weight that was making them blind.
Leroy, Lola, and Oscar upon arriving to the sanctuary.
Leroy and Oscar getting accustomed to their new home.
The three pigs now trust our shelter team and are as healthy as they can be for senior potbellies. We’re so glad we were able to step in and provide each of them the care they always deserved. Oscar is the most social of the three, while Lola and Leroy prefer the company of pigs more than anything else.
Oscar after receiving much needed medical care and love, now happy in sanctuary.
Want to sponsor Oscar? Click below!
Want to learn about our other pig residents? Click below!
Lola
Lola’s story
In the spring of 2018, Woodstock Sanctuary welcomed three new potbelly pig residents: Oscar, Leroy, and Lola. They were rescued from a severe neglect and hoarding case. The three pigs were given a terrible diet of dog food, table scraps, and even cake. Potbellied pigs need to be on restricted diets or they become very unhealthy very quickly. After years of neglect, Oscar, Leroy, and Lola were so overweight that they were “mechanically blind,” meaning that they couldn’t see their new home. Leroy was especially fearful and stayed close to Oscar and Lola for reassurance. He also could barely walk when he arrived because of his weight.
Slowly, with patience and time, the pigs adjusted to their new home. Our caregiving team put them through fitness plans and on a very healthy (and pig appropriate!) diet to help them lose the weight that was making them blind.
Leroy, Lola, and Oscar upon arrival at the sanctuary.
Lola getting cozy in the pig barn.
The three pigs now trust our shelter team and are as healthy as they can be for senior potbellies. We’re so glad we were able to step in and provide each of them the care they always deserved. Lola had the hardest time losing the weight when she first arrived, but now she is looking and feeling better than ever. She has a big heart and kind spirit.
Lola after much needed medical care and love, happy in sanctuary.
Want to sponsor Lola? Click below!
Want to learn about our other pig residents? Click below!
Leroy
Leroy’s story
In the spring of 2018, Woodstock Sanctuary welcomed three new potbelly pig residents: Oscar, Leroy, and Lola. They were rescued from a severe neglect and hoarding case. The three pigs were given a terrible diet of dog food, table scraps, and even cake. Potbellied pigs need to be on restricted diets or they become very unhealthy very quickly. After years of neglect, Oscar, Leroy, and Lola were so overweight that they were “mechanically blind,” meaning that they couldn’t see their new home. Leroy was especially fearful and stayed close to Oscar and Lola for reassurance. He also could barely walk when he arrived because of his weight.
Slowly, with patience and time, the pigs adjusted to their new home. Our caregiving team put them through fitness plans and on a very healthy (and pig appropriate!) diet to help them lose the weight that was making them blind.
Leroy, Lola, and Oscar upon arriving to the Sanctuary.
Leroy and Oscar getting accustomed to their new life.
The three pigs now trust our shelter team and are as healthy as they can be for senior potbellies. We’re so glad we were able to step in and provide each of them the care they always deserved. Leroy’s had the toughest recovery of all – but we’ve seen a 180 with his health. Now not only does he enjoy seeing the caregivers, he actually trots around!
Leroy after getting the medical care and love he needed, now happy in sanctuary.
Want to sponsor Leroy? Click below!
Want to learn about our other pig residents? Click below!
Tiny
Tiny’s story
Tiny was kept with two other turkeys, Shirley and Wonky, in a tiny backyard pen, suffering and without proper care. The flock’s caretaker refused to get any of the turkeys help, even when one of Tiny’s friends stopped eating entirely.
Tiny in winter 2018.
Beautiful Tiny coming to greet visitors.
Thankfully, a kind person couldn’t stand seeing this neglect and stepped in. The person convinced Tiny’s caretaker to let her bring all three girls to safety at Woodstock Sanctuary. After getting the immediate care she needed, Tiny has been doing great ever since! For a turkey named Tiny, her personality is as big as can be. Tiny loves to display her feathers to show off how gorgeous she is. But once Tiny gets to know someone, this sweet girl loves to cozy up to visitors and fall asleep.
Tiny and Shirley’s friend Wonky, who was rescued with them, passed away in 2019.
Want to sponsor Tiny? Click below!
Want to learn about our other turkey residents? Click below!
Shirley
Shirley’s story
Shirley was kept with two other turkeys, Tiny and Wonky, in a tiny backyard pen, suffering and without proper care. The flock’s caretaker refused to get any of the turkeys help, even when one of Shirley’s friends stopped eating entirely.
Thankfully, a kind person couldn’t stand seeing this neglect and stepped in. The person convinced Shirley’s caretaker to let her bring all three girls to safety at Woodstock Sanctuary. After getting the immediate care she needed, Shirley has been doing great ever since! Shirley is not only beautiful, but she is talkative! You hear Shirley before you see her, and her sweet voice and bold presence are hard to forget.
Shirley in her pasture, curopus of visitors as always.
Shirley enjoying some shade.
Shirley and Tiny’s friend Wonky, who was rescued with them, passed away in 2019.
Want to sponsor Shirley? Click below!
Want to learn about our other turkey residents? Click below!
Charlie
Charlie’s story
Raised by a neglectful, abusive man, Molly and Charlie were destined to be eaten. They were kept in separate pens – alone, scared, and malnourished. But because of one brave little pig named Hurley, the man was charged with animal abuse and the pigs were seized. Molly and Charlie awaited their forever home at the Ulster County SPCA.
Although these two girls were safe and well taken care of, we couldn’t stop thinking about them. We aided the Ulster County SPCA in looking for homes, but months later, Molly and Charlie were still at the shelter. We just couldn’t make them wait any longer. With some creative fence and barn engineering, we made room to bring Molly and Charlie to Woodstock Sanctuary!
Charlie snacking on tomatoes.
Charlie after eating some tomatoes on a warm day.
Molly and Charlie are happily settled into sanctuary life. They quickly knew they are finally where they belong, enjoying the lives they always deserved. Molly is particularly outgoing while Charlie is a wallflower who prefers to observe. Both members of this duo are the sweetest and have been so excited to meet each new face. We’re so glad we could provide a forever home to them.
Charlie strolling through the pig pasture, happy he’s in sanctuary.
Want to sponsor Charlie? Click below!
Want to learn about our other pig residents? Click below!
Molly
Molly’s story
Raised by a neglectful, abusive man, Molly and Charlie were destined to be eaten. They were kept in separate pens – alone, scared, and malnourished. But because of one brave little pig named Hurley, the man was charged with animal abuse and the pigs were seized. Molly and Charlie awaited their forever home at the Ulster County SPCA.
Molly and Charlie out on the snowy pasture.
Although these two girls were safe and well taken care of, we couldn’t stop thinking about them. We aided the Ulster County SPCA in looking for homes, but months later, Molly and Charlie were still at the shelter. We just couldn’t make them wait any longer. With some creative fence and barn engineering, we made room to bring Molly and Charlie to Woodstock Sanctuary!
Molly and Charlie are happily settled in to sanctuary life. They quickly knew they are finally where they belong, enjoying the lives they always deserved. Molly is particularly outgoing while Charlie is a wallflower who prefers to observe. Both members of this duo are the sweetest and have been so excited to meet each new face. We’re so glad we could provide a forever home to them.
Molly happy and safe in sanctuary.
Want to sponsor Molly? Click below!
Want to learn about our other pig residents? Click below!
ZIA
Zia’s story
Zia and his twin sister Pia were born on a small farm in New York. Goats of their breed are often used for dairy production or exploited in petting zoos. But Pia and Zia got lucky. Someone bought them thinking that he had a good home for them, but that home didn’t want them anymore. Instead of sending them to the slaughter like millions of goats will be this year, he made the kind choice of contacting Woodstock Farm Sanctuary so the pair could be around other goats and live their life in peace.
Our Executive Director, Rachel, with young Pia and Zia.
Our Shelter Director, Hervé, with Pia and Zia.
Now Zia loves spending time with his sister, who is always close by his side. He can always be his playful and energetic self around Pia. He may seem shy to new people—less outgoing than his sister—but he calls out in protest when visitors try to leave.
Pia and Zia having a snack outside.
Want to sponsor Zia? Click below!
Want to learn about our other goat residents? Click below!
PIA
Pia’s story
Pia and her twin brother Zia were born on a small farm in New York. Goats of their breed are often used for dairy production or exploited in petting zoos. But Pia and Zia got lucky. Someone bought them thinking that he had a good home for them, but that home didn’t want them anymore. Instead of sending them to the slaughter like millions of goats are a year, he made the kind choice of contacting Woodstock Farm Sanctuary so the pair could be around other goats and live their life in peace.
Young Pia bundled up for the winter and snacking in the barn.
Pia and Zia taking a stroll.
Now, Pia loves spending time with her brother, happy to follow him around wherever he wanders. She is a sweet and affectionate girl who is always there for her goat friends, especially when her friend Sam needs a nap and rests his head on her back.
Pia enjoying a nice day outside in the pasture.
Want to sponsor Pia? Click below!
Want to learn about our other goat residents? Click below!
Hurley's Family
Agnes’ Family’s story
In May 2017, Woodstock Sanctuary took in an emaciated and sick little piglet named Hurley. At just a few weeks old, he was found alone and wandering outside. Our team worked around the clock to save his life but the damage was too severe – he died after only four days in rescue. Though heartbroken, we couldn’t grieve for too long because we knew that Hurley had a family who was still suffering and needed our help. A local humane law enforcement agency was able to track down Hurley’s family: a mother pig and four other piglets.
We arrived at the property and quickly found Hurley’s family in a tiny dirt yard. A small piece of fabric provided insufficient shade, where three piglets, already badly sunburned, tried to hide from the relentless sun. Mother Agnes was lethargic and about 100 lbs underweight. Bradley, Mishka, and Peter were weak and defeated, and Pamela was separated from the family in a tiny pen of isolation. Now that this innocent family has found sanctuary, they will never have to fear for their lives or be separated again.
Since arriving to safety, they are healthy and thriving, and are enjoying lots of love and care from our caregivers, not to mention lots of play and snuggle time! Agnes is a wonderful mother to her four children and the whole family can always be seen rooting in the dirt of their pasture. We are so grateful to be able to give them peace, in memory of Hurley.
Want to sponsor Hurley’s family? Click below!
Want to learn about our other pig residents? Click below!
Jolene
Jolene’s story
Tammy and Jolene came to Woodstock Sanctuary in the summer of 2017 from a hoarding and abuse case. These girls were likely a live market purchase and because they were separated from their mothers, they are very bonded and stay close to one another for comfort.
Young Jolene and Tammy snacking outside on a sunny day.
Young Tammy and Jolene strolling through the pasture.
Want to sponsor Jolene? Click below!
Want to learn about our other sheep residents? Click below!
The Lucky Ducklings
The Lucky Duckling’s Story
In the spring of 2017, we got a call from the Ulster County SPCA asking for our help regarding a duck hoarding and neglect case in Woodstock, NY. A group of full-grown ducks were being held in a backyard covered in filth. There were no coops, shelters, or access to water, so the ducks were completely exposed to the elements and predators.
Inside the house, a small wire cage with malnourished and dehydrated ducklings was found – they were forced to live under a large lamp with no way to escape the heat. Their only source of nourishment was a makeshift feeder with barely any food or water in it. Thankfully, we were able to help, and suddenly there were ten ducklings at Woodstock Sanctuary.
When the ducklings arrived, they were nervous and huddled together as a group. But as they discovered clean food and water, learning they were safe, they broke out of their shells and started peeping with joy, splashing around and snuggling up to the caregivers.
Watch below as they took their first steps into their new home.
It is most likely that this little group was shipped from a hatchery at just a few days old to be raised for human consumption – but now they get to live their full lives safe in sanctuary. The ten Lucky Ducklings are: Winnie, Eeyore, Tigger, Roo, Kanga, Charlotte, Wilbur, Templeton, Ferdinand, and Horton!
Templeton, Tigger, Wilbur, Winnie, Eeyore, and Horton have sadly passed away since the rescue, but they live on in the remaining Lucky Ducklings.
The Lucky Ducklings when they just arrived at Woodstock Farm Sanctuary.
The Lucky Ducklings enjoying some pool time.