The Open Sanctuary Podcast

Senior Advisor Tara and Nonprofit Specialist Julia discuss how caregivers can best prepare for a scenario in which a resident cow cannot stand. In this situation, time is of the essence, so having a plan in place is key, as is understanding what to look for when assessing a cow resident who may be having difficulty standing. --- This Episode's Referenced Open Sanctuary Project Resources: When Cows Can't Stand: Understanding Causes And Making Sure You Are Prepared To Help | The Open Sanctuary Project Observation: An Important Caregiving Tool | The Open Sanctuary Project The Caregiver's Guide To Developing Your Observation Skills | The Open Sanctuary Project Daily Observation For Cow Resident Health And Well-Being --- You can learn more about our organization here! You can send us a question, comment, or topic idea here! Want more Open Sanctuary Content? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! Want to support our nonprofit's work? Donate here!

Executive Director Mckenzee and Nonprofit Specialist Julia celebrate our eight years of operation by discussing the year in review at The Open Sanctuary Project. We know that our audience of compassionate caregivers are often caught up in the day-to-day work of direct care for animals, so this is your chance to catch up with what's new this year in freely accessible resources to help you do the work of operating your organization and caring for your residents! To get a rundown on the work we've done this year to help you, check out this episode!  --- This Episode's Referenced Open Sanctuary Project Resources: The Open Sanctuary Project's Animal Database The Open Sanctuary Project's AI Tool Usage Policy When Cows Can't Stand: Understanding Causes And Making Sure You Are Prepared To Help  Daily Observation For Alpaca Health And Well-Being Daily Observation For Llama Health And Well-Being  Addressing Equine Hoof Abscesses (vet reviewed) Understanding Flight Zone, Pressure Zone, And Point Of Balance In Sheep And Goats Pig Vision: More Than Meets The Eye A Cow's Eye View Ocular Insights: Alpaca And Llama Vision A Goat's-Eye View: How Goats See the World The Open Sanctuary Project's Case For Support  How The Open Sanctuary Project Measures Our Impact  --- You can learn more about our organization here! You can send us a question, comment, or topic idea here! Want more Open Sanctuary Content? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! Want to support our nonprofit's work? Donate here!

Nonprofit Specialist Julia and Senior Advisor Tara talk more about turkeys! Building on our last discussion of how turkeys got here and how domestication has impacted them, we talk about the considerations sanctuaries and rescues should keep in mind when welcoming a new turkey resident to ensure all their needs are met! --- This Episode's Referenced Open Sanctuary Project Resources: Gobble Greetings: New Turkey Arrival Guide | The Open Sanctuary Project Creating A Good Home For Turkeys | The Open Sanctuary Project Domesticated Turkeys: How We Got Here | The Open Sanctuary Project How to Conduct a Turkey Health Check | The Open Sanctuary Project Predator-Proofing For Bird Residents At Your Sanctuary | The Open Sanctuary Project Establishing Safe And Effective Quarantine And Isolation Protocols For Your Animal Sanctuary | The Open Sanctuary Project Daily Observation For Turkey Health And Well-Being | The Open Sanctuary Project Electrical Safety Basics For Farmed Animal Sanctuaries | The Open Sanctuary Project Understanding Infectious Disease | The Open Sanctuary Project --- You can learn more about our organization here! You can send us a question, comment, or topic idea here! Want more Open Sanctuary Content? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! Want to support our nonprofit's work? Donate here!

Community Education Specialist Andie and Dr. Emily Tronetti of the Institute for Human Education led a special presentation on October 22nd, 2025 on how to nurture farmed animal agency and consent in sanctuary education. This is the audio recording of that presentation. --- This Episode's Referenced Open Sanctuary Project Resources: Webinar: Agency-Centered Sanctuary Education: Transformative Practices for Nurturing Empathetic Connections Between Humans and Farmed Animals The Open Sanctuary Podcast - Introduction to Agency with Dr. Emily Tronetti | The Open Sanctuary Project The Open Sanctuary Podcast - Fostering Farmed Animal Agency in Sanctuary Education, Part One with Dr. Emily Tronetti | The Open Sanctuary Project The Open Sanctuary Podcast - Fostering Farmed Animal Agency in Sanctuary Education, Part Two with Dr. Emily Tronetti | The Open Sanctuary Project An Introduction To Fostering Agency In Farmed Animals At Your Animal Sanctuary | The Open Sanctuary Project A Guide to Fostering Farmed Animal Agency in Sanctuary Education | The Open Sanctuary Project A Guide to Fostering Farmed Animal Agency in Sanctuary Education: Asking Other Animals for Consent Handout | The Open Sanctuary Project A Guide to Fostering Farmed Animal Agency in Sanctuary Education: Reflection Workbook | The Open Sanctuary Project A Guide to Fostering Farmed Animal Agency in Sanctuary Education: Part One | The Open Sanctuary Project A Guide to Fostering Farmed Animal Agency in Sanctuary Education: Part Two | The Open Sanctuary Project A Guide to Fostering Farmed Animal Agency in Sanctuary Education: Part Three | The Open Sanctuary Project A Guide to Fostering Farmed Animal Agency in Sanctuary Education: Part Four | The Open Sanctuary Project A Guide to Fostering Farmed Animal Agency in Sanctuary Education: Part Five | The Open Sanctuary Project A Guide to Fostering Farmed Animal Agency in Sanctuary Education: Part Six | The Open Sanctuary Project --- You can learn more about our organization here! You can send us a question, comment, or topic idea here! Want more Open Sanctuary Content? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! Want to support our nonprofit's work? Donate here!

Community Education Specialist Andie and Dr. Emily Tronetti of the Institute for Human Education discuss agency-centered sanctuary education and its connection to off-site programming. Andie and Emily explore the crucial considerations sanctuaries should make before planning and facilitating any off-site educational program with residents. They also discuss the essential factors that sanctuary educators must consider before and during the event to ensure resident safety and support their agency off-site at all times. Finally, they highlight some of the ways sanctuary educators can provide engaging and enriching educational opportunities at off-site outreach events without including the residents' physical presence. --- This Episode's Referenced Open Sanctuary Project Resources: The Open Sanctuary Podcast - Introduction to Agency with Dr. Emily Tronetti | The Open Sanctuary Project The Open Sanctuary Podcast - Fostering Farmed Animal Agency in Sanctuary Education, Part One with Dr. Emily Tronetti | The Open Sanctuary Project The Open Sanctuary Podcast - Fostering Farmed Animal Agency in Sanctuary Education, Part Two with Dr. Emily Tronetti | The Open Sanctuary Project An Introduction To Fostering Agency In Farmed Animals At Your Animal Sanctuary | The Open Sanctuary Project A Guide to Fostering Farmed Animal Agency in Sanctuary Education | The Open Sanctuary Project A Guide to Fostering Farmed Animal Agency in Sanctuary Education: Asking Other Animals for Consent Handout | The Open Sanctuary Project A Guide to Fostering Farmed Animal Agency in Sanctuary Education: Reflection Workbook | The Open Sanctuary Project A Guide to Fostering Farmed Animal Agency in Sanctuary Education: Part One | The Open Sanctuary Project A Guide to Fostering Farmed Animal Agency in Sanctuary Education: Part Two | The Open Sanctuary Project A Guide to Fostering Farmed Animal Agency in Sanctuary Education: Part Three | The Open Sanctuary Project A Guide to Fostering Farmed Animal Agency in Sanctuary Education: Part Four | The Open Sanctuary Project A Guide to Fostering Farmed Animal Agency in Sanctuary Education: Part Five | The Open Sanctuary Project A Guide to Fostering Farmed Animal Agency in Sanctuary Education: Part Six | The Open Sanctuary Project Fostering Critical Thinking at Your Animal Sanctuary | The Open Sanctuary Project Fostering Empathy Towards Farmed Animals | The Open Sanctuary Project Understanding Biases that Can Negatively Impact Farmed Animals and How to Help Folks Overcome Them | The Open Sanctuary Project  An Introduction to Educational Programs and Opportunities Well-suited for Microsanctuaries | The Open Sanctuary Project  In-Person Sanctuary Educational Programming: What Are Your Options? The Open Sanctuary Project  Virtual Sanctuary Educational Programming: What Are Your Options? | The Open Sanctuary Project Observation: An Important Caregiver Tool | The Open Sanctuary Project --- You can learn more about our organization here! You can send us a question, comment, or topic idea here! Want more Open Sanctuary Content? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! Want to support our nonprofit's work? Donate here!

Nonprofit Specialist Julia and Senior Advisor Tara talk turkeys! In the first part of our Turkey series, we discuss how domesticated turkeys got here and how that influences their care, as well as many of the considerations that you need to take into account when welcoming a new turkey resident to your sanctuary or rescue! --- This Episode's Referenced Open Sanctuary Project Resources: Gobble Greetings: New Turkey Arrival Guide | The Open Sanctuary Project Creating A Good Home For Turkeys | The Open Sanctuary Project Domesticated Turkeys: How We Got Here | The Open Sanctuary Project How to Conduct a Turkey Health Check | The Open Sanctuary Project Predator-Proofing For Bird Residents At Your Sanctuary | The Open Sanctuary Project Establishing Safe And Effective Quarantine And Isolation Protocols For Your Animal Sanctuary | The Open Sanctuary Project Daily Observation For Turkey Health And Well-Being | The Open Sanctuary Project Electrical Safety Basics For Farmed Animal Sanctuaries | The Open Sanctuary Project Understanding Infectious Disease | The Open Sanctuary Project --- You can learn more about our organization here! You can send us a question, comment, or topic idea here! Want more Open Sanctuary Content? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! Want to support our nonprofit's work? Donate here!

Nonprofit Specialist Julia and Community Education Specialist Andie talk about how you might encounter requests outside of the scope of your mission or your capacity generally, and in particular when those requests concern wild living animals. We offer a framework where you can say no, while still offering support, and also what to do when you feel you must say yes! Andie offers additional guidance on safely assisting wild living animals while prioritizing sanctuary staff and resident safety as well! --- This Episode's Referenced Open Sanctuary Project Resources: Compassionate Wildlife Practices At Your Animal Sanctuary | The Open Sanctuary Project Compassionate Wildlife Practices At Your Sanctuary Infographic | The Open Sanctuary Project Managing Requests to Take In and Help an Animal Outside the Scope of Your Sanctuary's Mission | The Open Sanctuary Project Biosecurity Part 1: Introduction | The Open Sanctuary Project Biosecurity Part 2: Creating And Implementing A Biosecurity Plan | The Open Sanctuary Project Going Green: Your Animal Sanctuary and The Environment | The Open Sanctuary Project Determining Your Animal Sanctuary's Capacity For Responsible Care | The Open Sanctuary Project How To Create An Effective Rescue Policy For Your Animal Sanctuary | The Open Sanctuary Project --- You can learn more about our organization here! You can send us a question, comment, or topic idea here! Want more Open Sanctuary Content? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! Want to support our nonprofit's work? Donate here!

Nonprofit Specialist Julia and Community Education Specialist Andie discuss the importance of peaceful and compassionate coexistence with wildlife. Whether it's through careful environmental management, robust predator protection for residents, stringent biosecurity protocols, or engaging educational programs, animal sanctuaries can be at the forefront of demonstrating how humans and wildlife can truly share space compassionately. It's about recognizing the interconnectedness of all living beings and actively working to create a safe and harmonious environment for everyone. Just as a gardener carefully tends to a diverse array of plants, cultivating each one to thrive while also fostering a healthy ecosystem that supports beneficial insects and wildlife, a sanctuary cultivates a compassionate environment where all residents —both wild and domesticated — can flourish together. --- This Episode's Referenced Open Sanctuary Project Resources: Compassionate Wildlife Practices At Your Animal Sanctuary | The Open Sanctuary Project Compassionate Wildlife Practices At Your Sanctuary Infographic | The Open Sanctuary Project Late Elementary-Age Sanctuary Education Lesson Plan #3 | The Open Sanctuary Project Managing Requests to Take In and Help an Animal Outside the Scope of Your Sanctuary's Mission | The Open Sanctuary Project Predator-Proofing For Bird Residents At Your Sanctuary | The Open Sanctuary Project Biosecurity Part 1: Introduction | The Open Sanctuary Project Biosecurity Part 2: Creating And Implementing A Biosecurity Plan | The Open Sanctuary Project Going Green: Your Animal Sanctuary and The Environment | The Open Sanctuary Project --- You can learn more about our organization here! You can send us a question, comment, or topic idea here! Want more Open Sanctuary Content? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! Want to support our nonprofit's work? Donate here!

Executive Director Mckenzee and Nonprofit Specialist Julia dedicate an episode to a specific bird type: Pigeons! Pigeons may not be the first animals you think of when it comes to sanctuary, but they are very special individuals who, for many reasons, may find themselves in need of sanctuary, and they deserve individualized, compassionate care. We discuss some of their background, behaviors, and needs, and ways you can help them! --- This Episode's Referenced Open Sanctuary Project Resources: Language Choices At The Open Sanctuary Project | The Open Sanctuary Project Pigeons: How We Got Here | The Open Sanctuary Project A Guide To Safely Catching Stray Birds For Your Animal Sanctuary Or Rescue Part I: Supplies Helpful For The Safe Capture Of Birds | The Open Sanctuary Project  Predator-Proofing For Bird Residents At Your Sanctuary | The Open Sanctuary Project Why Residents Shouldn't Breed At A Farmed Animal Sanctuary | The Open Sanctuary Project Microsanctuary Resource Center Palomacy  --- You can learn more about our organization here! You can send us a question, comment, or topic idea here! Want more Open Sanctuary Content? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! Want to support our nonprofit's work? Donate here!

Executive Director Mckenzee and Nonprofit Specialist Julia discuss what it means to us when we say that The Open Sanctuary Project is a living library. We talk about how and why we perform regular resource updates to address community feedback, integrate new developments in compassionate care and organizational strategies, and more. We also discuss major updates to our foundational resource on sanctuary capacity metrics. Why did we add governance as a capacity metric? How do participatory boards factor in? We hope this episode gives you greater clarity on our update protocols, as well as some new insights on sustainable governance! --- This Episode's Referenced Open Sanctuary Project Resources: Information Sourcing Considerations At The Open Sanctuary Project | The Open Sanctuary Project Determining Your Animal Sanctuary's Capacity For Responsible Care | The Open Sanctuary Project Animal Sanctuary Sustainability: Defining and Implementing Plans For Resiliency | The Open Sanctuary Project Succession Planning: A Necessary Component Of Responsible Animal Sanctuary Management | The Open Sanctuary Project Creating An Effective Set Of Contingency Plans For Your Animal Sanctuary | The Open Sanctuary Project The Open Sanctuary Project's Contingency Planning Workbook | The Open Sanctuary Project Nonprofit Board Basics For Animal Sanctuaries | The Open Sanctuary Project    --- You can learn more about our organization here! You can send us a question, comment, or topic idea here! Want more Open Sanctuary Content? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! Want to support our nonprofit's work? Donate here!

In the 50th episode of The Open Sanctuary Podcast, Executive Director Mckenzee and Nonprofit Specialist Julia discuss a memorable and actionable definition of sanctuary sustainability and break down its elements. We discuss assessing your current capacity needs and limitations, planning to address them in both the near and distant future, and, crucially, cultivating the resilience to anticipate and strategically adapt to unforeseen future challenges. We also thank our community members and supporters who consistently provide guiding input, and look forward to creating even more resources to make every sanctuary a success story! --- This Episode's Referenced Open Sanctuary Project Resources: Animal Sanctuary Sustainability: Defining and Implementing Plans For Resiliency | The Open Sanctuary Project Going Green: Your Animal Sanctuary And The Environment | The Open Sanctuary Project Determining Your Animal Sanctuary's Capacity For Responsible Care | The Open Sanctuary Project  Care Staff Retention At Your Animal Sanctuary | The Open Sanctuary Project  Estimating Species Lifetime Care Costs At Your Animal Sanctuary | The Open Sanctuary Project How To Create An Effective Rescue Policy For Your Animal Sanctuary | The Open Sanctuary Project How To Raise Money For Your Animal Sanctuary | The Open Sanctuary Project How To Develop A Fundraising Plan For Your Animal Sanctuary  | The Open Sanctuary Project Year-End Fundraising For Your Animal Organization  | The Open Sanctuary Project A Complete Guide To Major Donor Fundraising At Your Animal Sanctuary  | The Open Sanctuary Project Developing A Grant Program At Your Animal Sanctuary  | The Open Sanctuary Project Creating An Effective Set Of Contingency Plans For Your Animal Sanctuary  | The Open Sanctuary Project The Open Sanctuary Project's Contingency Planning Workbook  | The Open Sanctuary Project Nonprofit Board Basics For Animal Sanctuaries  | The Open Sanctuary Project Succession Planning: A Necessary Component Of Responsible Animal Sanctuary Management  | The Open Sanctuary Project --- You can learn more about our organization here! You can send us a question, comment, or topic idea here! Want more Open Sanctuary Content? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! Want to support our nonprofit's work? Donate here!

Executive Director Mckenzee and Nonprofit Specialist Julia discuss contingency planning! We discuss the common challenges individuals face when it comes to contingency planning, as well as the various types of events that your organization should prepare for, including organizational challenges, operational challenges, and resident challenges. We offer a simple framework for you and your team to use, which hopefully might help take some of the stress out of it!   --- This Episode's Referenced Open Sanctuary Project Resources: Creating An Effective Set Of Contingency Plans For Your Animal Sanctuary | The Open Sanctuary Project The Open Sanctuary Project's Contingency Planning Workbook | The Open Sanctuary Project   --- You can learn more about our organization here! You can send us a question, comment, or topic idea here! Want more Open Sanctuary Content? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! Want to support our nonprofit's work? Donate here!

Executive Director Mckenzee and Nonprofit Specialist Julia conclude their three-part discussion of succession planning! In this episode, we discuss succession planning for executive directors and other key roles at your sanctuary, contingency planning, as well as the importance of day-to-day resident and organizational recordkeeping!   --- This Episode's Referenced Open Sanctuary Project Resources: Succession Planning: A Necessary Component Of Responsible Animal Sanctuary Management | The Open Sanctuary Project A Founder's Guide To Organizational Change At Animal Sanctuaries | The Open Sanctuary Project Creating A Strategic Plan For Your Animal Sanctuary | The Open Sanctuary Project  Recognizing And Preventing Burnout At Your Animal Sanctuary | The Open Sanctuary Project Creating An Effective Set Of Contingency Plans For Your Animal Sanctuary | The Open Sanctuary Project  How To Create And Organize Permanent Records For Your Residents | The Open Sanctuary Project Animal Sanctuary Organizational Record Keeping Basics | The Open Sanctuary Project The Open Sanctuary Project's Animal Database | The Open Sanctuary Project The Open Sanctuary Project's Contingency Planning Workbook | The Open Sanctuary Project --- You can learn more about our organization here! You can send us a question, comment, or topic idea here! Want more Open Sanctuary Content? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! Want to support our nonprofit's work? Donate here!

Executive Director Mckenzee and Nonprofit Specialist Julia continue their discussion of succession planning! In our last episode on this subject, we discussed some of the challenges and emotions that can come up regarding succession planning. In this episode, we list some practical steps founders can take to work on a succession plan with their team! --- This Episode's Referenced Open Sanctuary Project Resources: Succession Planning: A Necessary Component Of Responsible Animal Sanctuary Management | The Open Sanctuary Project A Founder's Guide To Organizational Change At Animal Sanctuaries | The Open Sanctuary Project Recognizing And Preventing Burnout At Your Animal Sanctuary | The Open Sanctuary Project --- You can learn more about our organization here! You can send us a question, comment, or topic idea here! Want more Open Sanctuary Content? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! Want to support our nonprofit's work? Donate here!

Executive Director Mckenzee and Nonprofit Specialist Julia embark on the first part of an episode series addressing the question of succession in animal sanctuaries and rescues. We discuss some of the challenges (including the emotional ones) that folks may face when considering succession planning. If you have also encountered these feelings, listen on to learn more! --- This Episode's Referenced Open Sanctuary Project Resources: Succession Planning: A Necessary Component Of Responsible Animal Sanctuary Management | The Open Sanctuary Project A Founder's Guide To Organizational Change At Animal Sanctuaries | The Open Sanctuary Project --- You can learn more about our organization here! You can send us a question, comment, or topic idea here! Want more Open Sanctuary Content? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! Want to support our nonprofit's work? Donate here!

Nonprofit Specialist Julia and Community Education Specialist Andie discuss animal sanctuaries' role as advocates. From a movement standpoint, sanctuaries are essential vectors of change when it comes to society's view of animals. In terms of education and even legal advocacy, sanctuaries do a great deal to change hearts and minds while supporting the compassionate care of animals. We talk about how sanctuary education accomplishes, how sanctuaries can lobby for legal change, and the constraints around legal advocacy. --- This Episode's Referenced Open Sanctuary Project Resources: In-Person Sanctuary Educational Programming: What Are Your Options? | The Open Sanctuary Project The Significance of Humane Education in a Sanctuary Setting | The Open Sanctuary Project An Introduction to Educational Programs and Opportunities Well-Suited for Microsanctuaries | The Open Sanctuary Project Fostering Empathy Towards Farmed Animals | The Open Sanctuary Project A Guide to Fostering Farmed Animal Agency in Sanctuary Education | The Open Sanctuary Project Lobbying | The Internal Revenue Service A Farm Sanctuary Tour's Effects On Intentions And Diet Change | Faunalytics --- You can learn more about our organization here! You can send us a question, comment, or topic idea here! Want more Open Sanctuary Content? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! Want to support our nonprofit's work? Donate here!

Executive Director Mckenzee and our friend and volunteer Kyle Behrend discuss The Open Sanctuary Project's brand new Animal Database! This project was long requested by the sanctuary community because keeping thorough, up-to-date records of your residents' health and life events is a critical aspect of sanctuary care. To make the record-keeping process as simple and efficient as possible, we teamed up with Kyle to create the Animal Database, which you can now copy and begin using today! Keep listening to learn more about the Database, the thought process behind it, and how to use it! --- This Episode's Referenced Open Sanctuary Project Resources: The Open Sanctuary Project's Animal Database | The Open Sanctuary Project Finding The Right Record-Keeping System For Your Sanctuary | The Open Sanctuary Project Animal Sanctuary Record-Keeping Basics | The Open Sanctuary Project --- You can learn more about our organization here! You can send us a question, comment, or topic idea here! Want more Open Sanctuary Content? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! Want to support our nonprofit's work? Donate here!

Executive Director Mckenzee and Nonprofit Specialist Julia discuss different staff positions that may benefit operations at your animal sanctuary. Assigning sanctuary tasks to appropriately skilled staff can help maximize your efficiency and effectiveness as an organization, which is very helpful for long-term sustainability! Listen on to learn more about the various roles and responsibilities you can allocate at your sanctuary! --- This Episode's Referenced Open Sanctuary Project Resources: Overview Of Animal Sanctuary Staff Positions | The Open Sanctuary Project Recognizing And Managing Compassion Fatigue At Your Animal Sanctuary | The Open Sanctuary Project Recognizing And Preventing Burnout At Your Animal Sanctuary | The Open Sanctuary Project A Founder's Guide To Organizational Change At Animal Sanctuaries | The Open Sanctuary Project Board Resources | The Open Sanctuary Project A Guide To Effective Tabling For Animal Sanctuaries | The Open Sanctuary Project --- You can learn more about our organization here! You can send us a question, comment, or topic idea here! Want more Open Sanctuary Content? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! Want to support our nonprofit's work? Donate here!

Executive Director Mckenzee and Nonprofit Specialist Julia discuss three tools The Open Sanctuary Project offers to help your sanctuary minimize liability. These include a resource discussing and analyzing insurance options, a liability waiver template and its accompanying resource, and a free system you can download to easily track visitor liability waivers! To learn more, listen on! --- This Episode's Referenced Open Sanctuary Project Resources: Crafting An Accident Waiver For Your Animal Sanctuary | The Open Sanctuary Project Accident Waiver And Release Of Liability Template For Animal Sanctuaries | The Open Sanctuary Project The Open Sanctuary Project's Free Visitor Waiver & Sign-In System | The Open Sanctuary Project Getting The Right Insurance Coverage For Your Animal Sanctuary | The Open Sanctuary Project --- You can learn more about our organization here! You can send us a question, comment, or topic idea here! Want more Open Sanctuary Content? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! Want to support our nonprofit's work? Donate here!

Executive Director Mckenzee and Nonprofit Specialist Julia have another discussion about sanctuary capacity, this time about cruelty, seizure, bust, and escapee cases. We review all the questions your organization needs to consider before working on these cases. Some of these questions you may anticipate, and some you may not! Please note that we will not get into graphic descriptions of animal cruelty, though we must mention it generally. To learn more, listen on! --- This Episode's Referenced Open Sanctuary Project Resources: Managing Cruelty, Seizure, And Escapee Cases At Your Animal Organization | The Open Sanctuary Project  25 Questions To Help Guide Responsible Intake Decisions At Your Animal Sanctuary | The Open Sanctuary Project Care Staff Retention At Your Animal Sanctuary | The Open Sanctuary Project An Introduction To Navigating Media Coverage For Your Animal Organization | The Open Sanctuary Project --- You can learn more about our organization here! You can send us a question, comment, or topic idea here! Want more Open Sanctuary Content? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! Want to support our nonprofit's work? Donate here!

Executive Director Mckenzee and Nonprofit Specialist Julia discuss the critical importance of accuracy and transparency in communicating with supporters and the public. We discuss how these two values work hand in hand to maintain organizational integrity, how they might prevent your sanctuary or rescue from getting into adverse situations with others, and when being selective about your communications may be extra important. --- This Episode's Referenced Open Sanctuary Project Resources: Accuracy And Transparency: Two Critical Responsibilities Of Your Farmed Animal Sanctuary | The Open Sanctuary Project Managing Cruelty, Seizure, And Escapee Cases At Your Sanctuary Or Rescue | The Open Sanctuary Project A Starter Guide to Common Questions Your Sanctuary Gets Asked and How to Thoughtfully Answer Them | The Open Sanctuary Project --- You can learn more about our organization here! You can send us a question, comment, or topic idea here! Want more Open Sanctuary Content? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! Want to support our nonprofit's work? Donate here!

Executive Director Mckenzee and Nonprofit Specialist Julia discuss how animal sanctuaries differ from petting zoos. While this topic might seem evident to many in the sanctuary movement, expectations from the public based on past experiences might lead to conflations between the two environments. We also discuss how animal sanctuaries and advocates can educate the public and avoid creating unsafe dynamics between sanctuary residents and visitors. This Episode's Referenced Open Sanctuary Project Resources: The Differences Between An Animal Sanctuary And Petting Zoos | The Open Sanctuary Project What Defines An Animal Sanctuary? | The Open Sanctuary Project Avoiding Harm To Animals At Your Animal Sanctuary | The Animal Sanctuary Project Microsanctuary Resource Center An Introduction To Fostering Agency In Farmed Animals At Your Animal Sanctuary | The Open Sanctuary Project A Guide To Fostering Farmed Animal Agency In Sanctuary Education | The Open Sanctuary Project --- You can learn more about our organization here! You can send us a question, comment, or topic idea here! Want more Open Sanctuary Content? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! Want to support our nonprofit's work? Donate here!

The Open Sanctuary Project's Community Education Specialist, Andie, and Nonprofit Specialist, Julia, offer an introduction to The Open Sanctuary Project's offerings in our education and governance departments! Did you know that in addition to our direct care resources, we also have a vast array of resources on these two essential subjects for animal organizations? We talk about the many areas we cover and how the subjects of governance, education, and advocacy interplay with one another! --- This Episode's Referenced Open Sanctuary Project Resources: Strategic Planning for Educational Programming at Your Animal Sanctuary | The Open Sanctuary Project Education Program Evaluation for Animal Sanctuaries | The Open Sanctuary Project A Guide Fostering Farmed Animal Agency in Sanctuary Education  | The Open Sanctuary Project Adaptable Elementary- and Middle School-Age Sanctuary Education Lesson Plans | The Open Sanctuary Project Fostering Empathy Towards Farmed Animals  | The Open Sanctuary Project Fostering Critical Thinking at Your Animal Sanctuary  | The Open Sanctuary Project Understanding Biases that Can Negatively Impact Farmed Animals and How to Help Folks Overcome Them  | The Open Sanctuary Project Accessibility for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Community Members at Your Animal Sanctuary  | The Open Sanctuary Project Accessibility for Blind and Visually Disabled Community Members at Your Animal Sanctuary  | The Open Sanctuary Project Accessibility for Folks with Physical Disabilities at Your Animal Sanctuary  | The Open Sanctuary Project Crafting an Accident Waiver for Your Animal Sanctuary  | The Open Sanctuary Project The Open Sanctuary Project's Volunteer Policy Handbook  | The Open Sanctuary Project A Guide to Effective Tabling at Your Animal Sanctuary  | The Open Sanctuary Project A Suggested Governance Curriculum For Your Animal Organization | The Open Sanctuary Project The Open Sanctuary Project's Board Resources For Animal Organizations | The Open Sanctuary Project Breaking Down An Independent Contractor Agreement For Your Animal Sanctuary | The Open Sanctuary Project The Open Sanctuary Project's Resources On Volunteer And Worker Considerations | The Open Sanctuary Project Understanding Your Animal Sanctuary's Zoning Rights And Restrictions | The Open Sanctuary Project What Is A Land Survey And How Can It Help Your Animal Organization? | The Open Sanctuary Project Understanding Legal Mechanisms For Conflict Resolution For Your Animal Organization | The Open Sanctuary Project Conflict Support For Your Animal Organization: Understanding Dominant Culture, How It Shapes Our Behaviors And Envisioning Alternatives | The Open Sanctuary Project Conflict Support For Your Animal Organization: Part 2 Building Transformative Relationships: Tools for Challenging Dominant Culture in Everyday Interactions | The Open Sanctuary Project Accuracy And Transparency: Two Critical Responsibilities Of Your Farmed Animal Sanctuary | The Open Sanctuary Project --- You can learn more about our organization here! You can send us a question, comment, or topic idea here! Want more Open Sanctuary Content? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! Want to support our nonprofit's work? Donate here!

Community Education Specialist Andie and Nonprofit Specialist Julia discuss zoning laws and their importance to animal sanctuary and rescue work! We've done a few podcast episodes about capacity variables, and zoning is often touched upon. While zoning may not be the first thing you think about in terms of capacity limits, it's critical for you to understand the zoning laws governing your property's land. Zoning can impact the number and type of residents you can have, how many buildings you can have and where you put them, whether or how you can hold large events, and many other factors! Listen on to learn more! --- This Episode's Referenced Open Sanctuary Project Resources: Understanding Your Animal Sanctuary's Zoning Rights & Restrictions | The Open Sanctuary Project A Forever Home? Adoption Program Considerations For Animal Sanctuaries | The Open Sanctuary Project What Is A Land Survey And How Can It Help Your Animal Organization? | The Open Sanctuary Project --- You can learn more about our organization here! You can send us a question, comment, or topic idea here! Want more Open Sanctuary Content? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! Want to support our nonprofit's work? Donate here!

In this episode, The Open Sanctuary Project's Executive Director Mckenzee and Nonprofit Specialist Julia discuss the importance of language choices. Language is how we interface with and categorize the world around us. Our choice of language plays a significant role in how we consider others, so your language choices can have a tangible impact on promoting your mission and vision! We talk about how we use principles of respect and accessibility to guide our language choices at OSP, and we offer examples and explanations of terms and phrases that you can use at your organization to help flip the script when talking about animals! --- This Episode's Referenced Open Sanctuary Project Resources: Language Choices At The Open Sanctuary Project | The Open Sanctuary Project The Importance Of Language Choices At Your Animal Sanctuary | The Open Sanctuary Project Glossary of Common Terms | The Open Sanctuary Project Maintaining A Healthy Rooster Flock | The Open Sanctuary Project Introduction To Rooster Behavior Part 1: Dismantling Rooster Stigma | The Open Sanctuary Project --- You can learn more about our organization here! You can send us a question, comment, or topic idea here! Want more Open Sanctuary Content? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! Want to support our nonprofit's work? Donate here!

In this episode of The Open Sanctuary Podcast, Executive Director Mckenzee and Nonprofit Specialist Julia celebrate our seventh year of operation by discussing our year in review! We know that our audience of compassionate caregivers is often caught up in the day-to-day work of direct care for animals, so this is your chance to catch up with what's new this year in freely accessible resources to help you do the work of operating your organization and caring for your residents! To get a rundown on the work we've done this year to help you, check out this episode!    You can support our 8 Days Of Giving Campaign here! This Episode's Referenced Open Sanctuary Project Resources: Basic Sheep And Goat Care Course Part 2 | The Open Sanctuary Project 5 More Easy And Inexpensive Enrichment Tips Infographic | The Open Sanctuary Project Winter Staff Safety Infographic | The Open Sanctuary Project Behavior 102: Communication Infographic | The Open Sanctuary Project A Quick Guide To Effective Tabling Infographic | The Open Sanctuary Project The S.P.I.D.E.R. Enrichment Infographic Framework | The Open Sanctuary Project Visual Barriers For Residents? Infographic | The Open Sanctuary Project HPAI In Mammalian Farmed Animal Species: FAQ | The Open Sanctuary Project Electrical Safety Basics For Farmed Animal Sanctuaries (w/Michael Sizer) | The Open Sanctuary Project How To Conduct A Cow Health Check | The Open Sanctuary Project An Introduction To The Care Of Fishes For Your Animal Sanctuary | The Open Sanctuary Project A Guide To Fostering Farmed Animal Agency In Sanctuary Education | The Open Sanctuary Project Caring For Pregnant And Lactating Sheep And Goats Part One: Pregnancy (vet-reviewed)| The Open Sanctuary Project Caring For Pregnant And Lactating Sheep And Goats Part Two: Labor And Delivery (vet-reviewed) | The Open Sanctuary Project Caring For Pregnant And Lactating Sheep And Goats Part Three: Lactation (vet-reviewed) | The Open Sanctuary Project Research Round-Up: A Guide For Farmed Animal Sanctuaries (collaboration with Faunalytics) | The Open Sanctuary Project Creating A Vaccination Program For Pig Residents At Your Animal Sanctuary (vet-reviewed) | The Open Sanctuary Project What Is The Veterinary Review Initiative? | The Open Sanctuary Project --- You can learn more about our organization here! You can send us a question, comment, or topic idea here! Want more Open Sanctuary Content? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! Want to support our nonprofit's work? Donate here!

Executive Director Mckenzee and Nonprofit Specialist Julia discuss the cases for and against adoption policies at your animal organization and the considerations you must consider when implementing one. We talk about vetting homes, the paperwork you should have in place, the templates we have to help you, and more! To learn even more about how your organization could potentially increase your capacity through adoption, listen to this episode!  --- This Episode's Referenced Open Sanctuary Project Resources: A Forever Home? Adoption Program Considerations For Animal Sanctuaries | The Open Sanctuary Project The Open Sanctuary Project's Sanctuary Resident Adoption Application Template | The Open Sanctuary Project The Open Sanctuary Project's Sanctuary Resident Adoption Contract Template | The Open Sanctuary Project The Open Sanctuary Project's Sanctuary Resident Adoption Record | The Open Sanctuary Project The Microsanctuary Resource Center --- You can learn more about our organization here! You can send us a question, comment, or topic idea here! Want more Open Sanctuary Content? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! Want to support our nonprofit's work? Donate here!

Executive Director Mckenzee and Nonprofit Specialist Julia discuss three administrative tools that are helpful (and in some cases necessary) for the effective administration of your animal organization: board bylaws, registered agents, and land surveys! --- This Episode's Referenced Open Sanctuary Project Resources: Nonprofit Board Basics For Animal Sanctuaries | The Open Sanctuary Project Board Resources For Animal Sanctuaries | The Open Sanctuary Project The Animal Defense Partnership's Model Bylaws Template | The Open Sanctuary Project The Open Sanctuary Project's Animal Sanctuary Board Member Job Description | The Open Sanctuary Project How Registered Agents Can Help Your Animal Organization | The Open Sanctuary Project What Is A Land Survey And How Can It Help Your Animal Organization | The Open Sanctuary Project Understanding Your Animal Sanctuary's Zoning Rights And Restrictions | The Open Sanctuary Project Site Planning At Your Animal Sanctuary | The Open Sanctuary Project Animal Defense Partnership --- You can learn more about our organization here! You can send us a question, comment, or topic idea here! Want more Open Sanctuary Content? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! Want to support our nonprofit's work? Donate here!

Community Education Specialist Andie Springirth welcomes back special guest and Open Sanctuary Project contributor Dr. Emily Tronetti to discuss specific agency-supportive practices that sanctuaries can implement in their onsite educational endeavors to nurture the well-being of the residents and increase the effectiveness of their programming. In addition to exploring environmental-, resident-, and human-specific factors for agency-centered sanctuary educators to consider, this episode also highlights ways to center resident agency during onsite education that do not rely on potentially touching or being in close proximity to the residents. --- This Episode's Referenced Open Sanctuary Project Resources: The Open Sanctuary Podcast - Introduction to Agency with Dr. Emily Tronetti | The Open Sanctuary Project The Open Sanctuary Podcast - Fostering Farmed Animal Agency in Sanctuary Education, Part One | The Open Sanctuary Project An Introduction To Fostering Agency In Farmed Animals At Your Animal Sanctuary | The Open Sanctuary Project A Guide to Fostering Farmed Animal Agency in Sanctuary Education | The Open Sanctuary Project A Guide to Fostering Farmed Animal Agency in Sanctuary Education: Asking Other Animals for Consent Handout | The Open Sanctuary Project A Guide to Fostering Farmed Animal Agency in Sanctuary Education: Reflection Workbook | The Open Sanctuary Project A Guide to Fostering Farmed Animal Agency in Sanctuary Education: Part One | The Open Sanctuary Project A Guide to Fostering Farmed Animal Agency in Sanctuary Education: Part Two | The Open Sanctuary Project A Guide to Fostering Farmed Animal Agency in Sanctuary Education: Part Three | The Open Sanctuary Project A Guide to Fostering Farmed Animal Agency in Sanctuary Education: Part Four | The Open Sanctuary Project A Guide to Fostering Farmed Animal Agency in Sanctuary Education: Part Five | The Open Sanctuary Project A Guide to Fostering Farmed Animal Agency in Sanctuary Education: Part Six | The Open Sanctuary Project Fostering Critical Thinking at Your Animal Sanctuary | The Open Sanctuary Project Fostering Empathy Towards Farmed Animals | The Open Sanctuary Project Understanding Biases that Can Negatively Impact Farmed Animals and How to Help Folks Overcome Them | The Open Sanctuary Project  An Introduction to Educational Programs and Opportunities Well-suited for Microsanctuaries | The Open Sanctuary Project  In-Person Sanctuary Educational Programming: What Are Your Options? The Open Sanctuary Project  Virtual Sanctuary Educational Programming: What Are Your Options? | The Open Sanctuary Project Observation: An Important Caregiver Tool | The Open Sanctuary Project --- You can learn more about our organization here! You can send us a question, comment, or topic idea here! Want more Open Sanctuary Content? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! Want to support our nonprofit's work? Donate here!

Executive Director Mckenzee and Nonprofit Specialist Julia discuss ten critical questions that you should ask yourself before you start a sanctuary! This resource is excellent for those new to the sanctuary movement and a helpful refresher for established sanctuaries and rescue organizations. It serves as a guide to some of the many considerations you will need to consider as you embark upon or continue to provide forever lifelong compassionate care to animals. Along the way, we will point you to our free resources, which will help you tackle these questions more easily!  --- This Episode's Referenced Open Sanctuary Project Resources: So, You Want To Start A Farmed Animal Sanctuary | The Open Sanctuary Project The Open Sanctuary Project's 'So You Want To Start A Sanctuary' Brochure | The Open Sanctuary Project Estimating Species Lifetime Care Costs At Your Animal Sanctuary | The Open Sanctuary Project Recognizing And Managing Compassion Fatigue At Your Animal Sanctuary | The Open Sanctuary Project Recognizing And Preventing Burnout At Your Animal Sanctuary | The Open Sanctuary Project Determining Your Animal Sanctuary's Capacity For Responsible Care | The Open Sanctuary Project How To Create An Effective Rescue Policy For Your Animal Sanctuary | The Open Sanctuary Project Resources On Budgeting And Fundraising | The Open Sanctuary Project Fostering Positive Relationships Between Animal Sanctuaries | The Open Sanctuary Project Resources On Volunteer And Worker Considerations | The Open Sanctuary Project Accuracy And Transparency: Two Critical Responsibilities Of Your Farmed Animal Sanctuary | The Open Sanctuary Project An Introduction To Educational Opportunities Well-Suited For Microsanctuaries | The Open Sanctuary Project The Microsanctuary Resource Center --- You can learn more about our organization here! You can send us a question, comment, or topic idea here! Want more Open Sanctuary Content? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! Want to support our nonprofit's work? Donate here!

Senior Advisor Tara and Nonprofit Specialist Julia discuss the ins and outs of an essential sanctuary consideration: resident drinking water! Ensuring your residents receive the nutrients they require for their health and well-being is an essential aspect of animal care, but the importance of water and the logistics around providing it are sometimes overlooked. To learn about the nuances of drinking water considerations, including water testing, how to choose the best containers, and the potential impacts of weather, tune in! --- This Episode's Referenced Open Sanctuary Project Resources: Resident Drinking Water Considerations At Your Animal Sanctuary | The Open Sanctuary Project Daily Diet, Supplements And Treats Resources By Species | The Open Sanctuary Project --- You can learn more about our organization here! You can send us a question, comment, or topic idea here! Want more Open Sanctuary Content? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! Want to support our nonprofit's work? Donate here!

Community Education Specialist Andie Springirth welcomes back special guest and Open Sanctuary Project contributor Dr. Emily Tronetti to discuss the importance of fostering farmed animal agency in sanctuary education. In addition to exploring why agency-centered education is so vital to the well-being of sanctuary residents, this episode also highlights some of the inherent challenges sanctuary educators face as they strive to center resident agency and offers some practical tips to navigate them.    --- This Episode's Referenced Open Sanctuary Project Resources: A Guide to Fostering Farmed Animal Agency in Sanctuary Education | The Open Sanctuary Project A Guide to Fostering Farmed Animal Agency in Sanctuary Education: Asking Other Animals for Consent Handout | The Open Sanctuary Project A Guide to Fostering Farmed Animal Agency in Sanctuary Education: Reflection Workbook | The Open Sanctuary Project A Guide to Fostering Farmed Animal Agency in Sanctuary Education: Part One | The Open Sanctuary Project A Guide to Fostering Farmed Animal Agency in Sanctuary Education: Part Two | The Open Sanctuary Project A Guide to Fostering Farmed Animal Agency in Sanctuary Education: Part Three | The Open Sanctuary Project A Guide to Fostering Farmed Animal Agency in Sanctuary Education: Part Four | The Open Sanctuary Project A Guide to Fostering Farmed Animal Agency in Sanctuary Education: Part Five | The Open Sanctuary Project A Guide to Fostering Farmed Animal Agency in Sanctuary Education: Part Six | The Open Sanctuary Project An Introduction To Fostering Agency In Farmed Animals At Your Animal Sanctuary | The Open Sanctuary Project Fostering Critical Thinking at Your Animal Sanctuary | The Open Sanctuary Project Fostering Empathy Towards Farmed Animals | The Open Sanctuary Project Understanding Biases that Can Negatively Impact Farmed Animals and How to Help Folks Overcome Them | The Open Sanctuary Project  An Introduction to Educational Programs and Opportunities Well-suited for Microsanctuaries | The Open Sanctuary Project  In-Person Sanctuary Educational Programming: What Are Your Options? The Open Sanctuary Project  Virtual Sanctuary Educational Programming: What Are Your Options? | The Open Sanctuary Project --- You can learn more about our organization here! You can send us a question, comment, or topic idea here! Want more Open Sanctuary Content? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! Want to support our nonprofit's work? Donate here!

Executive Director Mckenzee and Nonprofit Specialist Julia talk about collaboration and cooperation between organizations! They list common pitfalls to relationship building, how to avoid them, and also how to communicate and work together in ways that enhance your capacity! Building community with like-minded organizations is a great way to strengthen our movement and help out humans and non-humans alike! --- This Episode's Referenced Open Sanctuary Project Resources: Fostering Positive Relationships Between Animal Sanctuaries | The Open Sanctuary Project Building And Maintaining A Good Relationship Between Your Animal Sanctuary And Veterinarians | The Open Sanctuary Project A Starter Guide To Understanding And Working With Animal Shelters For Animal Sanctuaries | The Open Sanctuary Project --- You can learn more about our organization here! You can send us a question, comment, or topic idea here! Want more Open Sanctuary Content? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! Want to support our nonprofit's work? Donate here!

In this episode of The Open Sanctuary Podcast, Community Education Specialist Andie Springirth is joined by special guest and Open Sanctuary Project contributor Dr. Emily Tronetti to discuss farmed animal agency and how to start centering it at your sanctuary to improve the overall health and well-being of the residents. In addition to exploring what agency is and why it's so important, this episode highlights some practical agency-centered practices that sanctuaries can implement right now. --- This Episode's Referenced Open Sanctuary Project Resources: An Introduction To Fostering Agency In Farmed Animals At Your Animal Sanctuary | The Open Sanctuary Project A Guide to Fostering Farmed Animal Agency in Sanctuary Education: Asking Other Animals for Consent Handout | The Open Sanctuary Project A Guide to Fostering Farmed Animal Agency in Sanctuary Education | The Open Sanctuary Project Fly Mitigation Strategies for Sanctuary Cow Residents | The Open Sanctuary Project Predator-Proofing for Bird Residents at Your Animal Sanctuary | The Open Sanctuary Project  Breaking the Mold: How Animal-Centered Design Can Transform Sanctuaries | The Open Sanctuary Project Enrichment Resources | The Open Sanctuary Project Fostering Critical Thinking at Your Animal Sanctuary | The Open Sanctuary Project --- You can learn more about our organization here! You can send us a question, comment, or topic idea here! Want more Open Sanctuary Content? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! Want to support our nonprofit's work? Donate here!

In this episode of The Open Sanctuary Podcast, Community Education Specialist Andie and Senior Advisor Tara discuss the vital role observation plays in many aspects of animal caregiving, focusing on how we can use our observation skills to assess our residents' health and catch subtle signs of concern. --- This Episode's Referenced Open Sanctuary Project Resources: Observation: An Important Caregiving Tool The Caregiver's Guide To Developing Your Observation Skills Species-Specific Daily Observation For Health And Well-Being Series The Importance Of Veterinary Care At Your Animal Sanctuary  The Importance Of Regular Health Checks At Your Animal Sanctuary --- You can learn more about our organization here! You can send us a question, comment, or topic idea here! Want more Open Sanctuary Content? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! Want to support our nonprofit's work? Donate here!

In this episode of The Open Sanctuary Podcast, Senior Advisor Tara and Nonprofit Specialist Julia discuss the guiding principles we use to source compassionate care information. From examining the challenges of finding reliable sources that value the individual lives of animals as sentient beings to explaining how we assess specific care recommendations, we hope that this podcast can provide you with more specifics on how you, too, can evaluate information more carefully, and feel a little less overwhelmed as you do so! --- This Episode's Referenced Open Sanctuary Project Resources About The Open Sanctuary Project Information Sourcing Considerations At The Open Sanctuary Project  What Does "Non-Compassionate Source" Mean At The Open Sanctuary Project A Guide To Evaluating Farmed Animal Care Sources, Recommendations, And Information For Your Sanctuary  Backyard Chicken Recommendations In Sanctuary: A Word Of Caution The Open Sanctuary Project's Elder Care Resources  Daily Diet, Treats & Supplements For Cows Predator-Proofing For Bird Residents At Your Sanctuary Advanced Topics In Resident Health: Avian Influenza In Birds HPAI In Domesticated Ruminants And Camelids: FAQ --- You can learn more about our organization here! You can send us a question, comment, or topic idea here! Want more Open Sanctuary Content? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! Want to support our nonprofit's work? Donate here!

Community Education Specialist Andie and Senior Advisor Tara discuss some helpful strategies and tips on how your animal organization can thoughtfully approach and respond to common visitor questions that sanctuaries get asked by visitors. --- This Episode's Referenced Resources: A Starter Guide to Common Questions Your Sanctuary Gets Asked and How to Thoughtfully Answer Them | The Open Sanctuary Project  Fostering Critical Thinking at Your Animal Sanctuary | The Open Sanctuary Project Fostering Empathy Towards Farmed Animals | The Open Sanctuary Project Understanding Biases that Can Negatively Impact Farmed Animals and How to Help Folks Overcome Them | The Open Sanctuary Project  The Importance Of Language Choices At Your Animal Sanctuary | The Open Sanctuary Project  Communicating With Youth About Animal Exploitation | The Open Sanctuary Project  An Introduction to Educational Programs and Opportunities Well-suited for Microsanctuaries | The Open Sanctuary Project  In-Person Sanctuary Educational Programming: What Are Your Options? The Open Sanctuary Project An Introduction To Fostering Agency In Farmed Animals At Your Animal Sanctuary | The Open Sanctuary Project --- You can learn more about our organization here! You can send us a question, comment, or topic idea here! Want more Open Sanctuary Content? Follow us on  Facebook and Instagram! Want to support our nonprofit's work? Donate here!

Community Education Specialist Andie and Nonprofit Specialist Julia discuss some helpful strategies and tips on how your animal organization can table at outreach events as effectively as possible. They offer insight on how tabling can be a beneficial way to connect with the public and raise awareness about issues that are important to your organization, actionable tips on how to choose outreach events and tabling staff wisely, and ways to create a welcoming and engaging table atmosphere to draw folks into meaningful conversation with you.  --- This Episode's Referenced Resources: A Guide To Effective Tabling For Sanctuaries | The Open Sanctuary Project  An Introduction to Fostering Agency in Farmed Animals at Your Animal Sanctuary | The Open Sanctuary Project  A Starter Guide to Common Questions Your Sanctuary Gets Asked and How to Thoughtfully Answer Them | The Open Sanctuary Project  The Importance Of Language Choices At Your Animal Sanctuary | The Open Sanctuary Project  Communicating With Youth About Animal Exploitation | The Open Sanctuary Project  An Introduction to Educational Programs and Opportunities Well-suited for Microsanctuaries | The Open Sanctuary Project  In-Person Sanctuary Educational Programming: What Are Your Options? The Open Sanctuary Project  An Introduction To Fostering Agency In Farmed Animals At Your Animal Sanctuary | The Open Sanctuary Project Education Program Evaluation for Animal Sanctuaries | The Open Sanctuary Project --- You can learn more about our organization here! You can send us a question, comment, or topic idea here! Want more Open Sanctuary Content? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! Want to support our nonprofit's work? Donate here!

Research Specialist Amber, Community Education Specialist Andie, and Nonprofit Specialist Julia discuss how your animal organization can "bee" more friendly to bees and other pollinators! They offer insight into how bees and pollinators can support your sanctuary (and can help support you and your efforts), actionable tips on how to support pollinators, and ways to educate the public on how to support them as well. We also talk about how to safely promote bee and other pollinator presences for sanctuary residents and caregivers.  --- This Episode's Referenced Open Sanctuary Project Resources: How To Be More Bee-Friendly At Your Sanctuary | The Open Sanctuary Project How To Be A Bee-Friendly Sanctuary Infographic | The Open Sanctuary Project Compassionate Wildlife Practices At Your Animal Sanctuary | The Open Sanctuary Project Compassionate Wildlife Practices At Your Sanctuary Infographic | The Open Sanctuary Project Going Green: Your Animal Sanctuary And The Environment | The Open Sanctuary Project  Late Elementary-Age Sanctuary Education Lesson Plan #3 |  The Open Sanctuary Project Virtual Sanctuary Educational Programming: What Are Your Options? | The Open Sanctuary Project The Bee Conservancy Website  Bee Blitz | The University of Illinois Picture This App --- You can learn more about our organization here! You can send us a question, comment, or topic idea here! Want more Open Sanctuary Content? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! Want to support our nonprofit's work? Donate here!

Research Specialist Amber Barnes and Senior Advisor Tara Hess discuss the importance of understanding how fresh, lush pastures can affect ruminant, camelid, and equine residents. In this episode, we talk about the joys of spring for residents and care staff but also the potential risks that may come along with the season. We take a peek into potential health concerns, why spring pastures can cause them, and who they may affect. Preventative measures are also discussed! --- This Episode's Referenced Open Sanctuary Project Resources: Spring Green Pastures: Managing Resident Consumption Bloat In Ruminants Laminitis In Horses: An Introduction Colic In Equines: What You Need To Know The Importance Of Veterinary Care At Your Animal Sanctuary Advanced Topics In Horse Nutrition: Health Conditions Daily Diet, Treats, & Supplements For Donkeys Daily Diet, Treats And Supplements For Horses: The Basics Daily Diet, Treats, And Supplements For Llamas Daily Diet, Treats, And Supplements For Alpacas Daily Diet, Treats, & Supplements For Goats Daily Diet, Treats, & Supplements For Sheep Daily Diet, Treats, & Supplements For Cows The Caregiver's Guide To Developing Your Observation Skills Signage To Consider Implementing At Your Animal Sanctuary Building Your Resident Emergency Healthcare & First Aid Kit The Importance Of Regular Health Checks For Residents At Your Animal Sanctuary --- You can learn more about our organization here! You can send us a question, comment, or topic idea here! Want more Open Sanctuary Content? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! Want to support our nonprofit's work? Donate here!  

Research Specialist Amber and Nonprofit Specialist Julia talk about donkeys! Amber explains some of the physiological, behavioral, social, and nutritional needs differences between horses and donkeys and how these impact what caregivers must consider in their day-to-day care of these individuals. We also talk about mules and the traits that make them different from both their horse and donkey parents! --- This Episode's Referenced Open Sanctuary Project Resources: Donkeys: How We Got Here  Donkeys Are Different: Addressing Their Unique Needs Donkeys Are Different Infographic Hello Burro Buddy! The New Donkey Arrival Guide Creating A Good Home For Donkeys How To Be Safely Around A Donkey Techniques And Practices Necessary For Responsible Donkey Care How To Conduct A Donkey Health Check Potential Donkey Health Challenges  Things That Are Toxic For Donkeys  Creating An Enriching Life For Donkeys Behavior 101 For Animal Sanctuaries How Donkeys Get Along With Different Species Marvelous Mules: Special Care Considerations Marvelous Mules: Tips For Your Animal Sanctuary Infographic When It Rains It Pours: Rain Scald Hair Coat Properties Of Donkeys, Mules And Horses In A Temperate Climate --- You can learn more about our organization here! You can send us a question, comment, or topic idea here! Want more Open Sanctuary Content? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! Want to support our nonprofit's work? Donate here!

Community Education Specialist Andie Springirth and Executive Director Mckenzee Griffler discuss combatting biases that can harm farmed animals. Since much of human thinking, feeling, and behavior is guided by our biases, understanding biases that can negatively impact farmed animals is an important undertaking for animal sanctuaries. As communities that challenge the dominant treatment and sociocultural narrative of farmed animals on a daily basis, sanctuaries can utilize their unique learning spaces alongside a deeper understanding of bias to help folks (re)imagine more compassionate ways of understanding and being in relationship with farmed animals. In addition to exploring what biases are and how they develop, this episode highlights three actionable strategies sanctuaries can use to help folks who participate in their educational programming avoid and overcome biases that can negatively impact farmed animals. --- This Episode's Referenced Open Sanctuary Project Resources: Understanding Biases that Can Negatively Impact Farmed Animals and How to Help Folks Overcome Them 5 Ways to Combat Biases that Can Harm Farmed Animals Infographic --- You can learn more about our organization here! You can send us a question, comment, or topic idea here! Want more Open Sanctuary Content? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! Want to support our nonprofit's work? Donate here!

Senior Advisor Tara Hess and Community Education Specialist Andie Springirth delve into the topic of goat resident safety. Why goat resident safety specifically? While sanctuary caregivers need to make sure residents of all species are safe, ensuring the safety of goats, in particular, can be a bit tricky, especially if you aren't aware of the unique safety challenges they face. In addition to discussing some of the unique characteristics, capabilities, and tendencies that could land goats in a dangerous situation, we highlight five specific areas caregivers can focus on to mitigate some of the most serious risks for their goat residents.   --- This Episode's Referenced Open Sanctuary Project Resources: Goat Resident Safety Part One: General Safety Considerations Goat Resident Safety Part Two: Hay Feeder Safety Observation: An Important Caregiving Tool Fundamentals Of An Effective Animal Sanctuary Tour Program --- You can learn more about our organization here! You can send us a question, comment, or topic idea here! Want more Open Sanctuary Content? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! Want to support our nonprofit's work? Donate here!

Executive Director Mckenzee Griffler and Nonprofit Specialist Julia Magnus continue discussing animal sanctuary capacity. We review some of the many elements that play a role in determinations around capacity and discuss ways to make it easier for your organization and team when capacity limitations dictate that you say "no," and discuss other ways your organization can help even when you must decline a rescue request. We also discuss the concept of the "moral remainder" and how you and your team can address challenging emotions when they arise. Please be forewarned that there will be discussions around animal rescue and some of the emotional and complex ethical decisions rescuers must make. --- This Episode's Referenced Open Sanctuary Project Resources: Determining Your Animal Sanctuary's Capacity For Responsible Care What Does "Philosophy Of Care" Mean At The Open Sanctuary Project? Understanding Mission And Vision Statements For Your Animal Organization The Challenges Of Responsible Animal Rescue  25 Questions To Help Guide Responsible Intake Decisions At Your Animal Sanctuary How To Create An Effective Rescue Policy For Your Animal Sanctuary Managing Cruelty, Seizure, And Escapee Cases At Your Sanctuary Or Rescue Building And Maintaining A Good Relationship Between Your Animal Sanctuary And Veterinarians Considering Alternative Living Arrangements In Response To A Health Concern Establishing Safe And Effective Quarantine And Isolation Protocols For Your Animal Sanctuary Recognizing And Managing Compassion Fatigue At Your Animal Sanctuary Recognizing And Preventing Burnout At Your Animal Sanctuary The Importance Of Regular Health Checks For Residents At Your Animal Sanctuary Saying Goodbye With Respect and Safety At Your Animal Sanctuary Estimating Species Lifetime Care Costs At Your Animal Sanctuary Creating An Effective Set Of Contingency Plans For Your Animal Sanctuary Cultivating Resilience At Your Animal Organization In The Face Of Inflation Understanding Your Animal Sanctuary's Zoning Rights & Restrictions Fostering Positive Relationships Between Animal Sanctuaries Microsanctuary Resource Center  Accuracy And Transparency: Two Critical Responsibilities Of Your Farmed Animal Sanctuary A Forever Home? Adoption Program Considerations For Animal Sanctuaries Microsanctuary Resource Center  --- You can learn more about our organization here! You can send us a question, comment, or topic idea here! Want more Open Sanctuary Content? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! Want to support our nonprofit's work? Donate here! Or, buy designs to support and spread our mission here!

Executive Director Mckenzee Griffler and Nonprofit Specialist Julia discuss an essential metric for all sanctuaries to consider regularly: capacity. In this episode, we discuss many elements that play a role in determining an organization's capacity, including spatial, quarantine, personnel, financial, regulatory, and emergency response capacity. We talk about how the interplay between these elements can flex and change constantly, which is why it is so important to involve every member of your organization in the discussion of capacity regularly. This is the first episode of a series of conversations about this critical topic, so stay tuned! --- This Episode's Referenced Open Sanctuary Project Resources: Determining Your Animal Sanctuary's Capacity For Responsible Care What Does "Philosophy Of Care" Mean At The Open Sanctuary Project? Understanding Mission And Vision Statements For Your Animal Organization The Challenges Of Responsible Animal Rescue 25 Questions To Help Guide Responsible Intake Decisions At Your Animal Sanctuary How To Create An Effective Rescue Policy For Your Animal Sanctuary Managing Cruelty, Seizure, And Escapee Cases At Your Sanctuary Or Rescue Building And Maintaining A Good Relationship Between Your Animal Sanctuary And Veterinarians Considering Alternative Living Arrangements In Response To A Health Concern Establishing Safe And Effective Quarantine And Isolation Protocols For Your Animal Sanctuary Recognizing And Managing Compassion Fatigue At Your Animal Sanctuary Recognizing And Preventing Burnout At Your Animal Sanctuary The Importance Of Regular Health Checks For Residents At Your Animal Sanctuary Saying Goodbye With Respect and Safety At Your Animal Sanctuary Estimating Species Lifetime Care Costs At Your Animal Sanctuary Creating An Effective Set Of Contingency Plans For Your Animal Sanctuary Cultivating Resilience At Your Animal Organization In The Face Of Inflation Understanding Your Animal Sanctuary's Zoning Rights & Restrictions Fostering Positive Relationships Between Animal Sanctuaries Microsanctuary Resource Center  --- You can learn more about our organization here! You can send us a question, comment, or topic idea here! Want more Open Sanctuary Content? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! Want to support our nonprofit's work? Donate here!

Community Education Specialist Andie and Senior Advisor Tara revisit the topic of zoonotic disease, this time with a focus on mitigating the risk of transmission for sanctuary personnel. We start by sharing five measures folks can implement today to help protect personnel and then discuss three additional measures folks can implement that may take a bit more time and consideration but can go a long way in keeping folks safe. --- This Episode's Referenced Open Sanctuary Project Resources: Understanding Zoonotic Disease: An Overview for Animal Sanctuaries The Open Sanctuary Podcast: Zoonotic Disease Transmission and Onsite Sanctuary Education Establishing Safe And Effective Quarantine And Isolation Protocols For Your Animal Sanctuary  Accessibility for Folks with Physical Disabilities at Your Animal Sanctuary  --- You can learn more about our organization here! You can send us a question, comment, or topic idea here! Want more Open Sanctuary Content? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! Want to support our nonprofit's work? Donate here!

Executive Director Mckenzee Griffler and Nonprofit Specialist Julia discuss some of the issues that can make fundraising an emotional challenge for those who come from a caregiver background. We also talk about the intersections between fundraising, capacity and storytelling, how to find a balance between these elements, and how we can bring some "fun" into fundraising. --- This Episode's Referenced Open Sanctuary Project Resources: Understanding Mission And Vision Statements For Your Animal Organization Determining Your Animal Sanctuary's Capacity For Responsible Care The Challenges Of Responsible Animal Rescue Estimating Species Lifetime Care Costs At Your Animal Sanctuary Accuracy And Transparency: Two Critical Responsibilities Of Your Farmed Animal Sanctuary How To Raise Money For Your Animal Sanctuary How To Develop A Fundraising Plan For Your Animal Sanctuary Cultivating Resilience At Your Animal Organization In The Face Of Inflation Fostering Positive Relationships Between Animal Sanctuaries Financial Measures For Animal Sanctuaries In The United States Impacted By The COVID-19 Outbreak (As Of April 7, 2020) Year-End Fundraising For Your Animal Organization A Complete Guide To Major Donor Fundraising At Your Animal Sanctuary Developing A Grant Program At Your Animal Sanctuary Creative Fundraising For Sanctuaries Infographic Microsanctuary Resource Center  --- You can learn more about our organization here! You can send us a question, comment, or topic idea here! Want more Open Sanctuary Content? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! Want to support our nonprofit's work? Donate here! Or, buy designs to support and spread our mission here!

In this episode of The Open Sanctuary Podcast, "Sharing A New Framework For Understanding Roosters," Senior Advisor Tara and Nonprofit Specialist Julia continue their rooster stigma discussion, debunking common rooster myths and stereotypes. We share ways that you as a sanctuary can actively bust rooster stigma through the adoption of careful language use, thoughtful educational programming, and considering how you approach your rooster residents in your day-to-day care practices!  --- This Episode's Referenced Open Sanctuary Project Resources: Introduction To Rooster Behavior Part I: Dismantling Rooster Stigma Chickens: How We Got Here Maintaining A Healthy Rooster Flock Breaking The Mold: How Animal-Centered Design Can Transform Sanctuaries Fun Facts About Roosters Infographic Dismantling Rooster Stigma Infographics The Open Sanctuary Project's So You Want To Rescue A Rooster Brochure --- You can learn more about our organization here! You can send us a question, comment, or topic idea here! Want more Open Sanctuary Content? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! Want to support our nonprofit's work? Donate here!

In this episode of The Open Sanctuary Podcast, Senior Advisor Tara and Nonprofit Specialist Julia discuss some common myths about roosters that perpetuate rooster stigma. We address several common misconceptions, stigmas, and stereotypes about roosters, dismantle them one by one, and offer a new framework for understanding rooster behavior. --- This Episode's Referenced Open Sanctuary Project Resources: Introduction To Rooster Behavior Part I: Dismantling Rooster Stigma Chickens: How We Got Here Maintaining A Healthy Rooster Flock Breaking The Mold: How Animal-Centered Design Can Transform Sanctuaries Fun Facts About Roosters Infographic Dismantling Rooster Stigma Infographics The Open Sanctuary Project's So You Want To Rescue A Rooster Brochure --- You can learn more about our organization here! You can send us a question, comment, or topic idea here! Want more Open Sanctuary Content? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! Want to support our nonprofit's work? Donate here!

In this episode of The Open Sanctuary Podcast, Community Education Specialist Andie Springirth and Senior Advisor Tara Hess delve into zoonotic disease transmission. What are zoonoses, and what are the ways in which they can spread? Why is it important to understand zoonotic disease transmission from an educational standpoint, and what are some of the most meaningful ways sanctuary educators can prevent it in their onsite learning spaces with guests? Listen to this episode to learn more!   Content Warning - This podcast includes references to child death and may not be suitable for all listeners. The team briefly discusses child death as a possible consequence of zoonotic disease between the 22 and 22:30 minute markers.  --- This Episode's Referenced Open Sanctuary Project Resources Understanding Zoonotic Disease: An Overview for Animal Sanctuaries Fundamentals of an Effective Animal Sanctuary Tour Program In-Person Sanctuary Educational Programming: What Are Your Options? The Differences Between an Animal Sanctuary and a Petting Zoo Understanding Biases that Can Negatively Impact Farmed Animals and How to Help Folks Overcome Them --- You can learn more about our organization here! You can send us a question, comment, or topic idea here! Want more Open Sanctuary Content? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! Want to support our nonprofit's work? Donate here!