Steve K.
Yelp
Farm Sanctuary is a place for animals taken by the state from the agricultural farming field. They bring in these animals, and provide them with a quality life, and medical treatment.
We came down for the first race of the year at Watkins Glen International, and I remembered this place from the movie Forks Over Knives. Emailing the group, Natalia agreed to give us a private tour, since they don't officially open for a few more weeks.
First off, if you're driving a race car, you will jack up your ride. If you can, approach from the west. The approach from the north is a terrible drive, with large pot holes, inches deep of mud, and up to six inch deep ruts. A normal vehicle can be okay if you're careful, and an SUV will be fine. The path from the west is much calmer, and much shorter.
There is no mobile phone service out here for Verizon, and I'm assuming the other carriers. Note 7, Note 5, iphone 6s and 7+ all had zero service.
So, what's the point of coming out here? THE ANIMALS.
The farm is absolutely massive. At this time, they have over 600 animals. You'll meet sheep, pigeons, goats, pigs, chickens and turkeys, and cows. If you're really lucky, you may meet a couple of kitty cats.
The sheep are absolute dolls! They can be a little, dare I say, sheepish, but they will warm up to you, and start begging for love. They appreciate some good scratches, though they will probably be shaved down when you get there. The pigeons are with the sheep, and they just kind of hop down or flap about and say Hi! There are also goats here, and they will be right there with you and the sheep.
We met the pigs next. Most people think pig = bacon, but if you are more knowledgeable of them, you know they are big guys. Well, I'm no expert, and it is quite daunting when a 650 pound pig comes waddling up to one. They have specific instructions to follow here (as they do everywhere since this is essentially a hands on experience with animals. Of course! Lol), and it's critical to follow them. One doesn't want to get bit by a pig. Similar to sharks, it's not just a bad bite, but the bacteria that is the biggest hazard. They take them to the doctor, feed them, clean up, and make sure they have all medication needed for a quality life (remember, these are factory farmed animals). One of the goats has a wheel chair, even! It doesn't get much more compassionate than that.
The turkeys and chickens are wicked cool. From the little poofy guys with sideways grumpy dance, to the butt scratches for the friendly folks. Of course, follow directions, but with the feathered friends who wanted to visit, one could reach under them as if they were picking them up (think cupping water with your hands. Note: Do NOT try to pick them up. You picking them up is like a T REX trying to scoop you up, so be courteous :) ), and start scratching. They love it!!!! One little guy (I think it was actually female) would get very flustered and poor up when we would stop. Who knew a grumpy turkey could be so cute!!!! FYI, mostly the chickens couldn't care less. Pull up some green grass, though, and you may make a friend ;)
Finally, we met the cows. Big bosses on campus. They had a bit of a situation going on, so we decided not to show too much love, but they were happy to be around people, and love attention.
Overall, it was an awesome experience. Everyone was friendly and courteous. Animals, people, it was all compassion. Honestly, I don't think there is a more peaceful place.