On a crisp, russet-toned fall afternoon, the Farm 101 Skills Incubator class traveled to Kindness Matters Animal Sanctuary in Avon, a peaceful four-acre haven tucked quietly off bustling Waterville Road, so hidden that you’d never know rescued animals, donkeys, sheep, and goats call it home. For many of the animals on the property, Kindness Matters is the first place they have ever experienced consistent compassion, medical care, and gentleness. As the director of the farm said, “All animals that were unwanted, neglected, or used, and they come here to live out their lives, get wonderful healthcare, but most of course, importantly, love and compassion”. It’s a relatively spa-like life, and the animals do not need to work or produce milk. The sanctuary opened in 2019, just three months before COVID-19, and welcomed its first two donkeys in September 2020. To the volunteers’ surprise, both were pregnant, leading to the arrival of two baby donkeys who today roam the sanctuary’s pastures.

Inside the tidy, warm barn, the Farm 101 group met two goats, one of which was recovering from a recent medical procedure. Wrapped in blankets and nestled into straw bedding, the goats rested comfortably alongside an unexpected companion: a giant teddy bear. Students learned the touching story behind it. Blossom, a sweet donkey who was orphaned at just four months old, found comfort snuggling with a stuffed bear. It soothed her so completely that the sanctuary added more teddy bears—now a cuddly staple in many of the pens. 

One of the first lessons of the day was understanding the difference between hay and straw. Students learned that straw is bedding that keeps animals warm and dry on colder days and provides a comfortable place to sleep. Hay is food. The donkeys and goats munch on hay delivered in truckloads from Pleasantview Farm in Somers. The sanctuary feeds hay from specialized feeder nets hanging just outside the barn. Volunteers explained that the nets are essential; they slow down the animals’ eating and help prevent overeating and weight gain. If the hay were piled on the floor, the donkeys would devour it quickly, leading to potential health issues.

Before visiting the animals, the students were reminded of farm etiquette: move slowly, whisper, and be mindful. Sudden noises can startle the animals, causing them to bolt into the pasture. And one rule was repeated often—never stand behind a donkey. Although it has yet to happen, even the gentlest donkey can kick when frightened.

In an outside pen, students met three brand-new arrivals: a trio of remarkably plump Katahdin sheep rescued just the day before. Since they had never left the place where they were born, everything about their new environment felt unfamiliar and a little overwhelming. They were a little bit skittish and trotted away as the students followed their path. Once their quarantine period ends and they settle into sanctuary life, they’ll naturally lose weight and adjust to their newfound freedom. The students touched a mound of their soft sheep wool, lightly stippled with its natural lanolin.

Sanctuary volunteers emphasized that caring for rescued animals requires far more than food and shelter. Daily brushing keeps their coats healthy, reduces stress, and strengthens the emotional bond between animals and caregivers. Salt licks, placed throughout the barn, provide essential minerals and encourage the animals to drink water, which is vital for preventing numerous health issues. Fresh, clean water must always be available.

By the end of the visit, Farm 101 students walked away with a deeper understanding of animal behavior, farm management, and the emotional needs of rescued creatures. More importantly, they witnessed firsthand how a small team with a big heart can transform the lives of animals once unwanted, neglected, or abused.

Kindness Matters is always looking for volunteers. Please follow this link to learn more.

https://kindnessmattersfarmsanctuary.com 

[email protected]