ACTON, CA
In a remote town of Los Angeles County, on 2.5 acres with mountain views, an unlikely family has come together thanks to the supersized hearts of Saving Grace’s founders, Erich and Kathy Lange. For over nine years, the loving duo has shared their home with some big personalities.
Apollo, Sebastian, and Wuzbear, tall and confident alpacas… a pair of black and tan cows named Frank and Gary, with fabulous, wavy locks that make them look as though they live beachside—far from a dry valley… an adorable donkey named Rufus… a goat named Winston with spots the color of coffee and cream, and his goat brother Batman who flaunts a long, wispy goatee and icy blue eyes that give him an out-of-this-world edge… Patty, Mini, and Daisy, Japanese silkies who love cuddles… a rooster named Lucky… and a curious sheep named Steve (he’s the one with his head resting on the table below)…
This precious bunch has over 20 more siblings, including horses, rabbits, ducks, and dogs, each with a backstory that will have you swaying between heartbreak and redemption. Heartbreak because some of them only narrowly escaped being exploited in the most horrific ways: cows become leather and hamburgers, their babies become veal, chickens become nuggets, and sheep are used to make winter coats until their production wanes—then they become meat. Redemption because the at-risk animals only narrowly escaped being exploited in horrific ways.
Frank and Gary were previously destined to be put up for auction. Born in early 2017, it would have been highly unlikely that the sweet boys would still be alive today. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, “the highest quality beef comes from animals that are under 36 months of age.”
Lucky was rescued from a local slaughterhouse; a teenage activist intervened only seconds before Lucky was to be killed. A reminder of his traumatic past remains: Lucky is missing part of his beak. To prevent birds from pecking those whom they are confined with, slaughterhouse workers will cut off the end of this sensitive appendage.
Gus, one of the two handsome, chocolate brown donkeys, was formerly used as a target for rodeo competitors practicing their roping skills.
As I reflect on my visit, I’m realizing that all of the animals exuded a certain tenderness toward us. Many of them suffered at the hands of humans before reaching the sanctuary. And there we were, a group of nine strangers crowding around them, cell phones in hand, eager to say hello or snap a close-up. It was as though these beautiful souls—masters of forgiveness and patience—collectively and individually decided to live the rest of their days in peace and harmony. Thanks to Saving Grace and the wonderful people who support the sanctuary, they can.
Sweet dreams, Grace, Gus, Bruce, and Rufus!
To keep up with their joyfully dramatic lives, follow the animals on Instagram.
Due to COVID-19, Saving Grace Animal Sanctuary is currently closed to visitors but in need of volunteers. Visit their website to sign up or make a donation. With your gift, the adorable residents will receive the TLC they need. 💕