What is an animal sanctuary?

An animal sanctuary provides a safe and nurturing environment for animals, primarily those that have been rescued, abandoned, abused, or in need of rehabilitation.

Some of the primary purposes of an animal sanctuary include:

1. Rescue and rehabilitation: Animal sanctuaries take in animals removed from unsuitable or abusive situations and provide them with the necessary medical care, rehabilitation, and socialization to help them recover.

2. Permanent refuge: Sanctuaries often serve as a permanent home for animals that cannot be released back into the wild or adopted due to health issues, domestication, or lack of suitable habitats.

3. Education and awareness: Animal sanctuaries often engage in educational programs and outreach to raise public awareness about the needs of animals, the importance of conservation, and the issues surrounding animal welfare and exploitation.

4. Conservation: Some sanctuaries work to protect and preserve endangered species, either through breeding programs or by providing a secure habitat where these animals can thrive.

5. Research and study: Sanctuaries can serve as a valuable resource for scientists and researchers, who can observe animals in a more natural and stress-free environment, contributing to our understanding of animal behavior, biology, and ecology. Samma Farm recently invited the students at both our county school program and the veterinary students at The University of Tennessee to come and spend time with the cows in a “nonfarming” environment. We hope that allowing the students to spend time with our cows will help them become more compassionate and empathetic care providers in a livestock environment.

Overall, the purpose of an animal sanctuary is to provide a better life for animals in need, promote animal welfare and conservation, and help educate the public about the importance of respecting and protecting the animals with whom we share our planet.