LEAP x CAS
LEAP: Leaders for Ethics, Animals, and the Planet
We are thrilled to announce our exciting partnership with LEAP (Leaders for Ethics, Animals, and the Planet), as we join forces to provide a compassionate and humane alternative to traditional 4H and FAA (Future Farmers of America) programs. At Catskill Animal Sanctuary, we firmly believe in promoting kindness, empathy, and ethical choices towards animals. Together with LEAP, we are working towards creating an educational experience that fosters empathy, respect, and understanding for all beings.
Together, we will offer a unique curriculum that focuses on animal welfare, sustainable agriculture, and ethical farming practices. Students will have the opportunity to engage with our rescued animal residents, learn about their individual stories, and gain a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness between animals, humans, and the planet.
By choosing this humane alternative, participants will develop critical thinking skills, empathy, and a sense of responsibility towards the environment and all living beings. We are excited to embark on this journey with LEAP and empower the next generation of compassionate leaders who will advocate for a more compassionate and sustainable world. Together, we can make a difference and create a brighter future for animals, the planet, and ourselves.
Program Dates
Join us this summer!
LEAP will be held as a week-long summer camp for grades 6-8 on July 13-17.
Questions? Contact Lauren at lauren@casanctuary.org!
Founded by three non-profit animal sanctuaries in Northern California – Jameson Humane, Blackberry Creek, and Rancho Compasión – LEAP (Leaders for Ethics, Animals, and the Planet) is the first-of-its-kind humane education program to reach high school students as a compassionate alternative to traditional agricultural programs like 4H and FFA.
Directions & Visitor Guidelines
We are located at 316 Old Stage Road in Saugerties, New York.
When you arrive at the Sanctuary, please drive all the way down the driveway, past the green gate, and park in the lot in front of our Welcome Hut. A staff member will be available to greet you and check you in.
Please do not proceed through the green gate until 9:45 AM. If you arrive earlier, please plan to come back at 9:45 once we are ready for visitors. Guests who arrive early may be asked to leave, as we have limited staff available to ensure the safety of our animals until that time.
Visit this page for detailed directions to Catskill Animal Sanctuary.
Parking is onsite and free for all guests.
Click here to view a map of the Sanctuary.
To keep our guests and rescued animals safe, we kindly ask all guests follow our Sanctuary guidelines:
– Arrive a few minutes early (no more than 15 minutes before your tour). Late arrivals may need to be rescheduled to another tour time depending on capacity limitations.
– Our speed limit on Sanctuary property is 5 mph as many animal residents roam freely.
– Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes for this walking tour.
– No dogs or companion animals are allowed onsite (including left in vehicles).
– Children under 18 must remain supervised at all times.
– Do not run, chase, or pick up our animals.
– No food on tours and do not feed the animals.
– Any food brought onsite must be 100% vegan.
– No smoking or vaping anywhere on the property.
– If you’re feeling sick, please reschedule and visit once you’re symptom-free for 48 hours.
– Cancellations within 48 hours of your tour are non-refundable.
Full details on these guidelines can be found in your email confirmation when you purchase tickets. If you have any questions regarding our Sanctuary policies, please contact us at tourstaff@casanctuary.org prior to your visit.
Thank you for helping us create a safe, respectful, and welcoming environment at Catskill Animal Sanctuary.
Catskill Animal Sanctuary is a working farm sanctuary in Saugerties, NY, with a mix of wheelchair-accessible spaces and natural farm terrain. We are committed to making our sanctuary tours as inclusive and accommodating as possible.
Wheelchair Accessibility & Mobility Information
Our main tour routes follow wide gravel roads, which most wheelchair users and mobility devices can generally navigate. However, portions of certain tours may enter animal enclosures that include uneven ground, grass, mud, or steeper areas typical of a farm setting.
When terrain becomes challenging, our tour guides are happy to adjust positioning along fence lines or accessible pathways so you can fully participate, interact with the animals, and hear all tour dialogue. Your experience matters to us, and we will always work to ensure you feel included and comfortable.
Accessible Facilities
– Wheelchair-accessible restroom trailers
– Wheelchair-accessible Farmstead Merchandise Store
– Outdoor benches and indoor seating available for rest breaks
Please note that our tours are walking tours and can be physically demanding, especially during hot summer weather. Guests with mobility concerns are encouraged to take breaks as needed. We also offer a shorter, 60-minute Family Focused Tour option that may be a more comfortable choice for some visitors.
Catskill Animal Sanctuary is committed to providing an inclusive, accessible experience in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and welcomes guests to contact us in advance at tourstaff@casanctuary.org to discuss individual accommodation needs.
