Ok, so maybe we didn’t exactly cuddle with the cows, but there was definitely some cow hugging and petting. Let me backup.
My brother (Craig) and his wife (Jaimee) are both vegan, and Jaimee LOVES cows, so much that her dream is to cuddle with one (so if you can make this happen, hit me up). Her love of cows (and all animals, really) led them to Kindred Spirits Sanctuary, a non-profit animal refuge located in Citra, Florida (just north of Ocala). Kindred Spirits is dedicated to providing a safe place for disabled, abused, abandoned and neglected farm animals. Although it’s so sad that a place like this has to exist, I am grateful it does!
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hen Craig and Jaimee first visited Kindred Spirits, they somehow forgot to invite us (they somehow forgot the second and third time, also), but eventually, after being left out of multiple trips, we got the call (we’re not bitter at all). From the moment we heard about this place I knew we had to go. Although Joffrey and I are not vegan, we do love animals, and have become more mindful of what we eat. We even enjoy cooking vegan dishes at home, including one of our favorite dishes, Roasted Chickpea and Broccoli Burrito. It comes from the Thug Kitchen cookbook which is hilarious and has delicious vegan recipes.
When we first arrived at Kindred Spirits, we were a little early, so we hung out for a bit while we waited for the tour to start, and then watched a short video on the work that the organization does towards the wellbeing of animals. During the (free!) 90 minute tour we got to meet some of the residents up close and personal, including horses, goats, pigs, and (of course) cows! The Kindred Spirits employees served as our tour guides, telling stories about each animal and how they ended up at the animal sanctuary. My favorite were the donkeys and Joffrey loved the goats. The best part, though, was that Jaimee got to hug a cow! It was a lovely day at a great facility. The work they do for these animals each and every day really shows. The grounds are well kept and the animals are in great condition.
This sanctuary is educational for humans and a safe haven for the animals they rescue. Take a visit and buy a shirt as a souvenir or just make a donation. Places like this need the support of the community in order to continue to do good things for the animals.
The down and dirty of it all…
- If you love animals you must visit
- Tours are free and last about 90 minutes
- Since we visited they’ve moved locations to Citra, FL and offer overnight accommodations.
Memorable Moments
- Seeing all of the happy animals living the good life
No Regrets! (except for maybe…)
- Not visiting sooner
Where will your next adventure take you?
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