Inside a K12 Virtual Field Trip

There’s a special feeling of calm that comes from seeing animals simply live as they’re meant to. In a recent K12 Virtual Field Trip to Farm Sanctuary, we captured that feeling in the most meaningful way. Guided by Julia, our thoughtful tour host, with Alice supporting behind the camera, the session felt less like a presentation and more like stepping into a peaceful classroom.

Farm Sanctuary has been doing this work for more than 40 years. Since opening in 1986, it has grown into a 275-acre haven that cares for more than 300 rescued animals. Cows, sheep, goats, pigs, chickens, turkeys, ducks, and geese all call this space home, and every one of them is given what they deserve: nutritious food, clean water, access to fun enrichment, medical care, and a life rooted in safety and respect.

Even when Farm Sanctuary can’t take in every animal, their reach continues through the Farm Animal Adoption Network, connecting animals to safe homes across the country.

Three Pillars Making a Difference

Starting out, Julia walked viewers through the heart of the sanctuary’s mission, which is built on three pillars:

• The education pillar, which brings learning to life through tools like downloadable lesson plans, helps students discover a deeper connection to farm animals and the world around them.
• The rescue pillar came into focus during our virtual visit to their Watkins Glen, New York, location, where animals arrive with unique histories and are given a second chance.
• And the advocacy pillar, which reflects their work beyond the sanctuary. Here, they work to support laws and legislation that protect animals on a broader scale.

Meeting the Cows: Big Personalities, Big Hearts

One of the most memorable moments of the session was spending time with the cows. There are about 50 at the sanctuary and getting to “meet” some of them made it feel like we were being welcomed into their world.

• Norman (around 15 years old)
  The first to greet us, Norman, is as gentle as they come. With his easygoing nature, he quickly set the tone for our visit and showed just how calm and gentle cows can be.
• Michael Morgan (Holstein)
  Michael Morgan’s story is unforgettable. He was rescued after falling from a truck as a young calf; he now lives a peaceful life. He’s often spotted hanging out with his crew, soaking in the calm of sanctuary life.
• Bellamy & Leigh
  These two brought a steady, laid-back vibe to the session, wandering nearby together like old friends who just enjoy each other’s company.
• Honey (28 years young!)
  The oldest cow at the sanctuary, Honey, may be a bit shy, but she soaks up all the love and comfort around her. A quiet queen, if you will.
• Falco (around 10 years old)
  Busy peacefully grazing, Falco’s journey is anything but ordinary. He was rescued from an auction and was even living inside a home at one point! He’s now right where he belongs.
• Pietro (5 years old)
  The youngest of the bunch and full of personality, Pietro confidently walked over to say hello. He loves attention and isn’t shy about wanting his fair share!
• Greg (around 2,000 pounds)
  Big in size and heart, Greg has a special way with people, especially kids! One of the sweetest moments shared was how he recognized his former rescuers and greeted them with affectionate kisses.
• Joan
  The smallest cow at the sanctuary, Joan, brings a softer, quieter energy, but proves that you don’t have to be loud to leave an impression.

Cows 101

Along the way, Julia shared more about cows as a species. We learned that they are deeply social animals, forming lifelong bonds and enjoying time together. They have scratchy tongues, grow thicker coats during colder months, and are classified as ruminants, meaning they have four-part stomachs that help them digest their food.

At the sanctuary, their diet is simple and natural: grass and hay — and additional grain when needed, especially for older cows or those receiving medications.

Enrichment at Play

Enrichment plays an important role in daily life. Julia showed a large brush used on cows, explaining how much they enjoy being brushed! It’s both comforting and stimulating for cows. Other animals have their own enrichment setups as well. Goats explore climbing structures and even interact with musical instruments like drums and pianos!

Chickens engage with puzzle-style feeders, such as tubes filled with seeds. Enrichment activities are designed to encourage natural behaviors, keep minds active, and bring some fun into everyday routines.

Plan Your Visit or Get Involved

For those inspired to experience Farm Sanctuary in person or support their mission, there are plenty of meaningful ways to connect:

Ways to visit:

• Join a public, private, or self-guided tour of the sanctuary
• Enjoy plant-based meals at The Kitchen café
• Extend your stay at the on-site bed & breakfast
• Attend seasonal events like the Fourth of July Pignic or the August Hoedown, celebrating their 40th anniversary

Ways to get involved:

• Join Farm Sanctuary’s Youth Leadership Council. If you are between the ages of 13-18 and care about making the food system more sustainable and kind, FS’s Youth Leadership Council is a great way to get involved! You’ll connect with awesome students from across the country, build community, and work together to make changes YOU want to see.
• Check out Farm Sanctuary’s Human Education resources and explore a bunch of free resources like downloadable lesion plans, live webinars and recorded presentations.
• Explore careers in caregiving, veterinary care, education, technology, and more
• Volunteer your time to support daily operations and animal care
• Contribute to a mission that centers on compassion, respect, and lifelong care for animals

Don’t Miss the Next Adventure with Farm Sanctuary

As the session wrapped up, Julia and Alice answered more questions from students while we watched the animals enjoy the afternoon.

If visiting Farm Sanctuary isn’t in the cards right now, consider visiting a local animal sanctuary in your state or finding ways to stay connected to this work. Social media is a great tool for staying connected and sharing information.

Be sure to join us for the next K12 Virtual Field Trip with Farm Sanctuary as we explore their Acton, California, location on September 23 at 3 PM (ET). All students in grades K–12 can register here.