Over the last twenty years, we’ve rescued thousands of animals. Hundreds currently call the Sanctuary “home.” We’d like to introduce you to a few rescues here— and we hope you visit and meet them in person or on Animals on Call!
Abram
Abram was initially rescued by a man who saved him from a religious sacrifice. Soon after, he purchased a second sheep, Izzy, to keep him company, but the man quickly found himself overwhelmed caring for them — he told us he "hoped they wouldn't be eaten," but he was "running out of options."
Abram was named in honor of Stacey Abrams, whose courage, leadership and strength have inspired all of us. Abram gazes up at new humans with rapt attention, eager to meet, greet, and playfully head-butt.
Alexandra, Finneas & Fernando
Sponsor an AnimalAlexandra "Lexi" came from our largest mammal rescue in our history, when we saved 42 sheep from horrific cruelty and neglect at a nearby slaughter operation in Fall 2022. Lexi was among many of the adult sheep who suffered from extreme emaciation, high parasite counts, and hoof rot. She was also one of the 8 females we determined to be pregnant at the time of their arrival! She gave birth to her twin boys, Finneas and Fernando, in the early hours of the morning on December 5th, 2022. The boys are inseparable but you can easily tell them apart by their noses— Finn has a bright pink nose, and Fern, a black one (Finneas also has a large brown spot on his back!). Lexi is still very shy around people, but clearly so appreciative to have her sons with her.Alice
Alice and her brother, Leo, came to the Sanctuary after being rescued from a goat farm where they would have been killed for their flesh. Alice had been rejected by her mother and Leo was born blind, so the farmer planned to kill them both rather than give them the care they needed. A kindhearted rescuer stepped in to rescue Alice and was given Leo as well. She brought them to the Sanctuary, where they lived for several months in happiness together. Leo passed away in early 2019. We miss him every day. Alice is a known troublemaker and we love her for exactly who she is.Amelia
Our girl Amelia was rescued as a piglet from a notorious animal hoarder, who had a pile of carcasses in the woods. Like many pigs, she is sensitive and fiercely intelligent. Because she was spoiled by us humans at CAS from the time she was very small, though, she has a tendency to be a bit sassy!Anastasia & Milton
Anastasia and her twin brother, Milton, were born on a small, local dairy farm. When a female is born with a twin male, she's most often a "Freemartin" animal, or sterile. Because Anastasia couldn't be made pregnant and produce milk, and Milton is a male, considered a "byproduct" to the dairy industry, they were both going to be killed. Instead, we rescued them, but we could not save their mother—she was already producing milk and therefore valuable. We know we can never replace their mother, but they will live a long and wonderful life knowing only love.Arline & Sergio
Sponsor an AnimalArline came from our largest mammal rescue in our history, when we saved 42 sheep from horrific cruelty and neglect at a nearby slaughter operation in Fall 2022. Arline was among many of the adult sheep who suffered from extreme emaciation, high parasite counts, and hoof rot. In particular, Arline suffered from severe anemia, and her life was saved by a blood transfusion thanks to our other rescued sheep, Nina! Thanks to Nina's heroic act, Arline was able to fully recover and safely deliver her healthy and HUGE baby boy, Sergio, on December 15th, 2022 (the last of the lambs to be born in this crew). Arline is very sweet and curious, and Sergio is a bouncing ball of energy— we're just so happy they get to experience the rest of their lives together as a family.Arlo
When local "humane" farm, Sprout Creek, closed down due to a decrease in funding and COVID-19, their animals were listed to be sent to auction. Hundreds of people messaged us asking, "Can you help?" After local animal organizations, Hudson Valley Animal Rescue and Sanctuary (HVARS) and Hunks n Hunnies Sanctuary, rehomed about 200 of the animals, we brought Arlo and his friends, Chester, Mollie, and Levi, home to Catskill Animal Sanctuary. Read their full story here.Audrey & Mario
Audrey and Mario came from former pig farmer Bob Comis, who had a change of heart when he repeatedly noticed the intellectual and emotional capabilities of the animals he was exploiting. Audrey was said to be the "smartest" pig, and Mario, the "kindest." The siblings are inseparable and love to hang out with humans on tours!August & Reece
August and Reece were born at Farm Sanctuary after their mother, Autumn, was rescued from a local neglect situation involving over 40 animals. Autumn was rescued alongside her friend, Sadie, who also gave birth to twins after she was rescued. The two mothers and their two sets of twins arrived at Catskill Animal Sanctuary on 2/22/22—a great day for these twosomes!Autumn
Autumn and her friend Sadie were rescued by our friends at Farm Sanctuary from a local neglect situation involving over 40 animals. Shortly after, it was discovered that they were pregnant. Both Sadie and Autumn gave birth to twins (August and Reece, Sullivan and Isaac) in January of 2022 while at Farm Sanctuary. On 2/22/22, the two mothers and their two sets of twins arrived at Catskill Animal Sanctuary where they will remain together as a family.Barclay
Barclay came from a neglectful owner, after he had been sold to that person by a hunt club. When he arrived, he was underweight and very high strung. Over a decade later, he's become a confident and affectionate senior horse, though he has lost the majority of his hearing in his old age. He now lives with our blind horse, Buddy— the two are great friends!Bartleby
When Bartleby’s human had to downsize in 2015, he came to live with us at Catskill Animal Sanctuary, where his big personality and love of cheek scratches has made him a favorite in our “Underfoot Herd.” Bart is one of our most popular residents, always making us laugh with his fancy strut and his affinity for playing with inanimate objects like chalkboard signs, rakes and shovels.Beatrice
In 2015, we rescued 27 goats from the notorious “backyard butcher” in Newburgh, NY. More than 100 animals were rescued that day; all had lice, a parasite count so high that many were severely anemic, fungal infections, respiratory issues, and a contagious virus known as ORF. Beatrice "Bea" was one of these 27 goats and to this day, still is learning how to trust humans. Though she is very shy and reserved, she is closely bonded to her goat friends, like Jacqueline and her daughters— we often refer to her as "Aunt Bea!"Benjamin
Benjamin arrived as a six-month-old calf after a New Jersey beef farmer had a change of heart and decided to place his remaining cows in sanctuaries. Luckily for Benjamin, not only did we have room, little Blossom needed a sibling.Bernard
Bernard and his best friend, Calvin, came from a backyard veal operation (they were considered "byproducts" of the dairy industry). When he arrived, he was only a few days old and had to be bottle fed by staff. Today, Bernie and Calvin live out their days in peace, accepting affection from staff and guests alike. Bernard is so calm and gentle, he will allow humans to sit and lean against him while he's laying down! Snuggle time!Bertha
Bertha was rescued from a massive tenant farm & hoarding/neglect situation in Westport, MA. Upon arrival, Bertha showcased classic signs of neglect, including being very underweight. We also discovered that she was pregnant! She gave birth to twins, Liza and Suzie, who are two of our shyer sheep (they take after their Mom!)Blossom
It’s quite rare for cows to reject their offspring, but that’s exactly what Blossom’s mom did at a grass-fed beef farm. The Brattleboro farmer gave her to a farm worker, who reached out to us. Tucker the steer was as happy as we were to welcome little Blossom.Callie
Callie arrived to the Sanctuary after her previous owner could no longer care for her due to health issues. Today, Callie is our oldest resident at 35 years old! She is very sweet and gentle, but does not let her old age get in the way of having fun with her best friend, Cricket, or rolling around in the grass of her field when she's feeling relaxed.Calvin
Sponsor an AnimalCalvin and his best friend, Bernard, came from a backyard veal operation (they were considered "byproducts" of the dairy industry). When he arrived, he was only a few days old and had to be bottle fed by staff. Today, Calvin and Bernard live out their days in peace, accepting affection from staff and guests alike.Cecil
Cecil and his friend, Hazel come to us from another sanctuary whose animals were profoundly neglected. Thankfully, Rancho Relaxo, a neighboring sanctuary, was able to step in and help facilitate the placement and rescue of the hundreds of animals, including Cecil and Hazel. It’s hard for us to believe that anyone would want to harm them, but their lives were very nearly cut short. Cecil was rescued after he outgrew a roadside attraction where he was being used for photos with young children who were placed on his back. We were told Hazel was rescued from a bidding war where people were offering thousands of dollars for the opportunity to mount her horns for decoration. Surviving their respective histories should have been enough, but sadly, their safe haven let them down and they were in need of a home once again.Cecilia
Cecilia Chickadee and Kate Brownie were being cared for and loved in someone's apartment. When the landlord discovered that there were two turkeys in the attic, he called animal control and demanded they be rehomed. Heartbroken, their caretaker turned to us. We were unable to take them right away, so Farm Sanctuary in Watkins Glen was kind enough to foster them for us until we were prepared to welcome them home. They arrived in June 2021.Charlotte
Now 18 years old and our oldest pig, Charlotte and her now deceased friend Maggie spent a year locked in a cage at a dog and cat shelter, because that's all the shelter had. Charlotte and Maggie were slated for euthanasia when we intervened. Charlotte is pretty shy and hesitant around new people, but if you approach slowly and sit down with her, she’ll hang out with you!Chester
When local "humane" farm, Sprout Creek, closed down due to a decrease in funding and COVID-19, their animals were listed to be sent to auction. Hundreds of people messaged us asking, "Can you help?" After local animal organizations, Hudson Valley Animal Rescue and Sanctuary (HVARS) and Hunks n Hunnies Sanctuary, rehomed about 200 of the animals, we brought Chester and his friends, Arlo, Mollie, and Levi, home to Catskill Animal Sanctuary. Read their full story here.Collette
Collette was rescued in 2015 at the age of 10, along with 13 other horses from a Saratoga, NY, hoarder who, despite having dozens of horses, had no food for them when we arrived. Hoarding is now recognized as a mental illness. Collette is very closely bonded with her friend, Rowdy, who was rescued with her. Collette did not like humans when she first arrived, but with Rowdy’s help, she’s come around and has grown to trust people again.Cricket
Cricket was rescued from the notorious hoarder depicted in our founder Kathy’s book, Where the Blind Horse Sings. Cricket was chained by the leg to a tree, without access to water or shelter, and endured this wretched life for nearly two years while many worked tirelessly to bring her to safety. This breathtaking photo was taken the first moment Cricket was released into her large pasture.Daisy
Daisy was rescued from a petting zoo, where she sadly would have been auctioned off when she got too big to be around small children. Thankfully, she was rescued by a kind soul, who was able to place her with us. She's very kind and gentle, and very, very soft.Darwin
At just under a year old, sweet Darwin is the youngest cow at the Sanctuary.Darwin was born on a dairy farm and taken in by a family as a companion for their daughter. She lived in a field with horses, but cried out for the companionship of her own kind. The family explored their options: Darwin could go back to the dairy farm, to a nearby beef farm, or to Catskill Animal Sanctuary. The final decision was left up to this young girl, only fifteen, who had named Darwin and who loved her deeply. She learned what the outcome would be for Darwin on the beef farm and at the dairy. And when she visited us, she saw what Darwin’s life could look like, not just for a little while, but for all of her days.
She chose Sanctuary. And we couldn’t say no to offering Darwin a safe haven for life. As we mark our 20th year of rescue, she will become part of the next generation of beloved, heart-opening beings who call the Sanctuary “home.”
Davey
Davey’s mother, Laverne was rescued from a massive tenant farm & hoarding/neglect situation in Westport, MA with efforts from the ASPCA. Including cats and dogs, 997 animals were seized. Laverne showcased classic signs of neglect, including being very underweight. We later discovered that she and three others from the Westport, MA rescue were pregnant. Laverne gave birth to Davey—who was one of the biggest babies we’ve EVER seen—at Catskill Animal Sanctuary. Now, Davey has taken on a protector role for all the sheep in his flock.Doc
When he was just a Holstein calf, Doc was seized in a Medina County, OH cruelty case successfully prosecuted by their SPCA. He's now lived at CAS for over a decade and is perhaps our largest resident! Despite his size, Doc is passive and gentle. His favorite thing is to receive scratches on the bump between his horns - he’ll walk up to you and put his head down for scratches, which can look intimidating, but he’s just saying hi! He also loves our vets and likes to lick them.Edith
In 2015, we rescued 27 goats from the notorious “backyard butcher” in Newburgh, NY. More than 100 animals were rescued that day; all had lice, a parasite count so high that many were severely anemic, fungal infections, respiratory issues, and a contagious virus known as ORF. Edith was rescued pregnant and gave birth to her daughter, Lillian, while at Catskill Animal Sanctuary. Edith is pictured here doing the always funny "Flehmen Response," which is something goats do when they want to get a good sniff of something—it opens their airways to get a clearer scent.Elvira & Casper
Sponsor an AnimalElvira came from our largest mammal rescue in our history, when we saved 42 sheep from horrific cruelty and neglect at a nearby slaughter operation in Fall 2022. Elvira was among many of the adult sheep who suffered from extreme emaciation, high parasite counts, and hoof rot. She was also one of the 8 females we determined to be pregnant at the time of their arrival! She gave birth to her son, Casper, on December 6th, 2022. Elvira is among the most outgoing of our newly rescued mamas, and will show you her teeth in a "smile"— especially if there's cookies involved! Her little boy Casper is still small, but mighty, and is always eager to keep up with the big kids.Evelyn & Delilah
Sponsor an AnimalEvelyn came from our largest mammal rescue in our history, when we saved 42 sheep from horrific cruelty and neglect at a nearby slaughter operation in Fall 2022. Evelyn was among many of the adult sheep who suffered from extreme emaciation, high parasite counts, and hoof rot. She was also one of the 8 females we determined to be pregnant at the time of their arrival! She gave birth to her daughter, Delilah, very surprisingly right in the middle of their field on December 4th, 2022. Both Evelyn and Delilah are extremely gentle and sweet.Felicia & Selene
Sponsor an AnimalFelicia came from our largest mammal rescue in our history, when we saved 42 sheep from horrific cruelty and neglect at a nearby slaughter operation in Fall 2022. We named Felicia after District Attorney Felicia Raphael, who was largely responsible for helping us get these sheep to safety. Felicia was among many of the adult sheep who suffered from extreme emaciation, high parasite counts, and hoof rot. She was also one of the 8 females we determined to be pregnant at the time of their arrival! Her daughter, Selene, was the first to be born out of this bunch, on November 7th, 2022. Selene is an energetic, outgoing and happy lamb, and her mama, Felicia, is clearly very proud of her.Ferguson
Ferguson was born at Catskill Animal Sanctuary to Cleo, who was rescued from a massive tenant farm & hoarding/neglect situation in Westport, MA. Mama Cleo showcased classic signs of neglect, including being very underweight. We later discovered that she was pregnant! Cleo was the first to give birth, but there were complications and Cleo was rushed to the vet. Sadly, one of her babies didn’t make it, but little Ferguson was miraculously revived by Dr. Ferguson, who he was named after. Today, Ferg is an exemplary member of the "Underfoot" family, and is often one of the first faces to greet visitors when they arrive to Catskill Animal Sanctuary!Gilbert
Hazel
Hazel (formerly known as Ladybug) and her friend, Cecil come to us from another sanctuary whose animals were profoundly neglected. Thankfully, Rancho Relaxo, a neighboring sanctuary, was able to step in and help facilitate the placement and rescue of the hundreds of animals, including Cecil and Hazel. It’s hard for us to believe that anyone would want to harm them, but their lives were very nearly cut short. Cecil was rescued after he outgrew a roadside attraction where he was being used for photos with young children who were placed on his back. We were told Hazel was rescued from a bidding war where people were offering thousands of dollars for the opportunity to mount her horns for decoration. Surviving their respective histories should have been enough, but sadly, their safe haven let them down and they were in need of a home once again.Hermione
Hermione was dumped on the lawn of The Homestead when she was still a baby, emaciated and riddled with internal and external parasites, rotting hooves and scours. We were concerned that she wouldn’t survive, but she did, and today she’s a happy-go-lucky member of our free-roaming “Underfoot Family.”Izzy
Izzy was initially purchased by the same man who saved our other resident, Abram the sheep, as a companion for Abram after he seemed lonely without any other sheep friends. However, the man quickly realized he was in over his head caring for the two of them, and ran out of options, so they came to live at CAS. Izzy was super shy and extremely dependent on Abram for a while after her arrival, but slowly gained more confidence as she realized she was safe here for life, and today, she's a member of our "Underfoot" herd, who teach her more and more each day how to be a confident and kind sheep!Jasmine
Jasmine came from New Lebanon, NY, where she was found in the woods alone by a woman walking her dog. After several unsuccessful attempts to return to the woods and capture her, Jasmine was successfully lured by a vegan shepherd's pie the woman made. It’s likely she escaped from a farm based on the type of pig she is - she was about three months old at the time. Now a fully-grown adult, Jasmine is one of our friendliest pigs, and will lay down for belly rubs on cue when she sees a tour group approaching!Judith & Flora
Sponsor an AnimalJudith and Flora came from our largest mammal rescue in our history, when we saved 42 sheep from horrific cruelty and neglect at a nearby slaughter operation in Fall 2022. Judith was among many of the adult sheep who suffered from extreme emaciation, high parasite counts, and hoof rot— in particular, Judith's was so severe that she spent over a month in the hospital at Cornell while they evaluated and later amputated part of her foot to save her. Thankfully (and miraculously) she has since made a full recovery and is an incredible mother to her daughter Flora, the only lamb who was saved already born at just a few weeks old at the time of rescue.Keira
When a bankrupt industrial chicken farm closed its doors in the winter of 2018, leaving their baby chickens to freeze or starve, Keira was one of the thousands left behind. Dedicated rescuers managed to save 610 chickens, and Keira, along with 14 of her siblings, came to live at the Sanctuary, where they’ve been able to thrive, knowing love for the first time. Keira loves to sit on laps and get a nice snuggle under her wings.Lady
Lady lived with a former staff member for about four years. But when her shelter got damaged, she moved in with us and her new turkey friend, Cecilia.Lena & Seneca
Lena was rescued from a massive tenant farm & hoarding/neglect situation in Westport, MA. Upon arrival, Lena showcased classic signs of neglect, including being very underweight. We also discovered that she was pregnant! She gave birth to her daughter Seneca on International Women's Day, so Seneca was named after the historic Seneca Falls Convention. Both Lena and Seneca are very affectionate and sweet members of our Underfoot herd, and still have an extremely close mother-daughter bond.Levi
When local "humane" farm, Sprout Creek, closed down due to a decrease in funding and COVID-19, their animals were listed to be sent to auction. Hundreds of people messaged us asking, "Can you help?" After local animal organizations, Hudson Valley Animal Rescue and Sanctuary (HVARS) and Hunks n Hunnies Sanctuary, rehomed about 200 of the animals, we brought Levi and his friends, Chester, Mollie, and Arlo, home to Catskill Animal Sanctuary. Read their full story here. All grown up now, Levi is our "athlete" of CAS— he's known for being able to jump over any obstacle in his path! He's also super friendly and affectionate.Logan
Sponsor an AnimalLogan came from our largest mammal rescue in our history, when we saved 42 sheep from horrific cruelty and neglect at a nearby slaughter operation in Fall 2022. Logan was among many of the adult sheep who suffered from extreme emaciation, high parasite counts, and hoof rot. He is easily recognizable for his stunning horns, and will often stomp his foot just to let you know that he's tough!Lonnie
Lonnie’s mother, Jacqueline, was rescued in 2015 from the notorious “backyard butcher” in Newburgh, NY. More than 100 animals were rescued that day; all had lice, a parasite count so high that many were severely anemic, fungal infections, respiratory issues, and a contagious virus known as ORF. Shortly after Jacqueline’s arrival, we discovered she was pregnant. In January 2016, Jacqueline gave birth to sisters Lonnie and Loretta. Because Lonnie was born here, she’s only ever known kindness.Madeline
Sweet Madeline is one of 11 piglets surrendered to PETA by a Virginia woman who couldn’t care for them. Madeline and her siblings have been part of the Sanctuary family since June 2015.Micah
Micah and dozens of other sheep were rescued from an illegal slaughter operation, where numerous animals were found starving, desperately sick, or dead. The bony bodies of the living were covered in matted, feces-filled wool, and most suffered from severe foot rot. The weakened babies could barely nurse, and many debilitated mothers lacked adequate milk. Today, Micah is a loving and outgoing member of the “Underfoot Family.”Miracle & Trudy
Miracle's mother, Trudy, was one of the animals rescued from the Catskill Game Farm, including a miniature horse named Clarence. Trudy was adopted to a family with Clarence, who was assumed to be neutered. Apparently he was not, thus, Miracle was born! She’s a mini hinny (mom’s a mini donkey, dad’s a mini horse). They returned to the sanctuary when their human was diagnosed with brain cancer and could no longer care for them. Trudy is typically outgoing and often encourages her more reserved daughter to come out of her shell.Mollie
When local "humane" farm, Sprout Creek, closed down due to a decrease in funding and COVID-19, their animals were listed to be sent to auction. Hundreds of people messaged us asking, "Can you help?" After local animal organizations, Hudson Valley Animal Rescue and Sanctuary (HVARS) and Hunks n Hunnies Sanctuary, rehomed about 200 of the animals, we brought Mollie and her friends, Chester, Arlo, and Levi, home to Catskill Animal Sanctuary. Read their full story here.Myrtle, Rowan & Remi
Sponsor an AnimalMyrtle came from our largest mammal rescue in our history, when we saved 42 sheep from horrific cruelty and neglect at a nearby slaughter operation in Fall 2022. Myrtle was among many of the adult sheep who suffered from extreme emaciation, high parasite counts, and hoof rot. We also suspect Myrtle is a bit older than some of the others, meaning she has unfortunately been exploited for breeding for a long time. She was also one of the 8 females we determined to be pregnant at the time of their arrival— she gave birth two twins, Rowan (male) and Remi (female) on December 4th, 2022. Because Myrtle was still recovering from a lifetime of neglect, she had a hard time nursing both babies, so Remi, the smaller of the twins, had to be bottle and tube fed by our staff for her first few weeks. These siblings are playful and curious, and love to climb on humans and their mama! Myrtle is a bit of a grumpy old lady— but we love her for exactly who she is.Nina
Nina was rescued from a live market in Astoria, where she (and so many others) would have been chosen, killed, and eaten for Easter. However, a kindhearted couple tearily pleaded with the shop owner to let them rescue Nina, and the shop owner agreed, though he didn’t quite understand why the couple didn’t want him to bind Nina’s feet for easier transport. When Nina arrived, she was riddled with diseases that are all too common for animals raised in poor conditions for their flesh. After she was given a clean bill of health, Nina became a part of our “Underfoot Herd,” and today she is one of the most rambunctious and sweetest members!Pilar & Sidra
Pilar and Sidra are egg-hatching project survivors. A boy who didn’t want the chickens he’d hatched for his science class to die reached out for support, and Pilar and Sidra came to us. Pilar is a perfectly polite chicken; her pal Sidra is a brazen, in-your-face, my-way-or-the-highway kind of gal.Poppy
In 2015, we rescued 27 goats, including Poppy, from the notorious “backyard butcher” in Newburgh, NY. More than 100 animals were rescued that day; all had lice, a parasite count so high that many were severely anemic, fungal infections, respiratory issues, and a contagious virus known as ORF.Robin Hood
A prominent vet in the animal welfare field rescued Robin Hood and his friend, Little John, from a school hatching project. Unfortunately, many of the birds (especially roosters) who are hatched in classrooms meet a very sad ending. We're very happy that Little John and Robin Hood were saved!Rose Willow
This sweet girl found Sanctuary in our quarantine field after she was diagnosed with CAE, a contagious virus that commonly affects goats and sheep. Though a CAE diagnosis can mean death for someone like Rose Willow on a farm, her family wanted her to live out her life safely. Since we have a lot of experience managing CAE, we agreed to offer her a place with our other CAE+ and CL+ goats.
