First Taste Of Freedom

November 11, 2011

It’s been a big couple of weeks on the hen rescue front. Last week we rescued 35 battery hens, and this week we rescued another 62. That’s 97 hens that were scheduled for slaughter that will now enjoy a long, happy life. They are already showing signs of improvement, and we have a number of people who are keen to adopt anywhere from 2 – 10 hens. One person has offered to take 20! We check out all adoptive ‘parents’ to make sure that the hens will live in good conditions for the rest of their natural lives. Many people who have adopted from us in the past send us stories and photos to show the hens, fully recovered, in their new lush homes. It’s paradise for them, and families are amazed at how affectionate, curious, and full of personality the hens are. A few people have asked how we rescue the hens (including my mother and sister!), afraid that we sneak in during the night wearing ski masks and steal them. No, we conduct legal rescues, in agreement with the farmer at time of slaughter. But we do go at night, when the hens have settled. It involves many long hours of driving, loading, driving, unloading, and getting them settled in rehab. It’s all worth it, though, when they recover and have their first taste of freedom – and then go to good homes where they’re protected and cared for.