Hope and Asher’s Journey: A Story of Rescue and Love at Spring Farm Sanctuary

November 11, 2024

Spring Farm Sanctuary Welcomes Hope and Asher

Spring Farm Sanctuary recently welcomed two very special sheep, Hope and Asher, who have quickly become part of the sanctuary family. Their journey to safety began when the sanctuary received a call about two lambs in desperate need. These lambs had been neglected and were about to be killed. It was clear they needed immediate help, so Spring Farm rushed to save them, hoping to give them a second chance at life.

Rescue and Recovery

When Hope and Asher arrived, their condition was heartbreaking. They were covered in filth and maggots, and Hope had an especially severe infestation. Neither lamb could stand, and both had untreated wounds and fevers. At just three months old, they had already suffered through harsh conditions. The “farmer” they came from had barely fed them, leaving them in terrible shape. With no time to lose, Hope and Asher were taken to the University of Minnesota Vet Hospital for critical care.

Over the next week, they received food, fluids, antibiotics, and many tests. The vet team worked tirelessly to help them, starting them on the road to recovery. Asher began to show signs of improvement first, managing to stand and even take a few steps on his own. Hope needed more help, but she showed a strong will to survive.

Helping Hope Walk Again

While Asher’s progress continued, Hope’s recovery was slower, so the sanctuary explored other ways to help her. She received a wheelchair, and soon she’ll have a special sling and a cable system in her stall. This setup will allow her to move between food, water, and her hay in the winter. 

The team is also working with a veterinary acupuncturist to help Hope’s nerves and muscles grow stronger. They’re even scheduling an MRI to understand her needs better. All of these efforts are bringing them closer to the goal of seeing Hope walk independently one day.

Permanent Sanctuary Residents

Although the sanctuary originally planned to foster Hope and Asher, they quickly realized the lambs were there to stay. Their story and resilience touched everyone, and their strong bond with each other made them impossible to separate. Asher, who has grown stronger, rarely leaves Hope’s side, while Hope finds comfort in having her friend close by. These two brave sheep are now permanent residents of Spring Farm Sanctuary, where they will be cared for and loved for the rest of their lives.

A New Beginning

Hope and Asher’s story has already inspired many, showing the importance of compassion and care. With the support of the sanctuary and donations they receive, these two sheep have found a safe, loving home where they can continue to recover. They are not only healing but also thriving together, surrounded by the people and animals who care deeply for them.

The work of Spring Farm Animal Sanctuary

Spring Farm Sanctuary is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and one of the first farm animal sanctuaries in Minnesota. The sanctuary is dedicated to ending farm animal cruelty and promoting vegan living through rescue, rehabilitation, and education efforts.

At Spring Farm Sanctuary, rescued farm animals find a true home where they are safe and cared for. The sanctuary aims to educate the local community about the harsh conditions animals endure in factory farming and the negative impacts these have on health and the environment. Through various events and visiting days, the sanctuary encourages the community to connect with the animals. Their goal is to help people understand how sensitive, emotional, and caring these creatures are.

The sanctuary also collaborates with local and state governmental organizations and agencies. Together they advocate for laws and policies that prevent animal suffering and promote fair and compassionate treatment of animals.

Founded in 2016 by Robin Johnson, a lifelong vegetarian and now vegan, Spring Farm Sanctuary reflects Robin’s dedication to animal advocacy and care. Her commitment to animal rights drives the sanctuary’s mission and efforts to make a positive impact in the lives of farm animals.

The Mission of Spring Farm: A caring farm animal rescue organization

This is how Spring Farm describes their mission: “Spring Farm Sanctuary is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating farm animals. We seek to educate the public about the mistreatment of animals, advocate for their protection and inspire change for compassionate living.”

Other Animals at Spring Farm

Hope and Asher aren’t the only animals whose lives have been rescued by Spring Farm. The sanctuary is home to other animals, each with their own story of rescue and renewal. Some of the sanctuary’s other beloved residents which CAA has featured include:

Marmaduke and Tinker

Timmy the Rooster

Hank the Turkey

These animals, like Hope and Asher, have found safety and care at Herbivorous Acres, where they can live free from the fear and suffering of factory farming.

Our partner farm sanctuaries

Herbivorous Acres is just one of several farm sanctuaries in the region doing incredible work to protect farmed animals. Other sanctuaries such as Chicken Run Rescue, Farmaste, Herbivorous Acres, and SoulSpace are also dedicated to providing safe, loving homes for animals in need. Compassionate Action for Animals (CAA) regularly highlights these sanctuaries and their residents, celebrating the lives they’ve saved and the impact they’re making. Every month, CAA features a sanctuary resident in their blog and newsletter, giving readers a glimpse into the lives of these amazing animals.

Check our blog page regularly and sign up for our weekly newsletter so you don’t miss any of the endearing stories of residents of local sanctuaries. 

Connect With Compassionate Action for Animals

Compassionate Action for Animals (CAA) hosts many events throughout the year, including Twin Cities Veg Fest, Vegan Recipe Club, cooking classes, potlucks, outreach events, and so much more! CAA’s work includes outreach events, educational initiatives, and activities that help build community around plant-based living and animal advocacy. 

To stay informed about upcoming events and new sanctuary residents, follow CAA on social media or online. 

Follow Compassionate Action for Animals on TikTok | Instagram | Facebook | Online

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