Myth-Busting Month at the Sanctuary!

At our sanctuary, we are proud to care for 11 different species of incredible animals—and this month, we’re tackling some of the most widespread myths about them. Misunderstood behaviors, surprising intelligence, and old stereotypes have led many animals to be unfairly judged. It’s time to set the record straight.

Pig Myths Busted
MYTH: “Pigs are dirty.” FACT: Pigs are actually very clean! They roll in mud to cool off—not because they like being messy. Given enough space, they’ll keep their bathroom far from their eating and sleeping areas.
MYTH: “Pigs are dumb.” FACT: Pigs are incredibly intelligent. They can solve puzzles, recognize faces, learn tricks—and in some studies, even play video games.
At our sanctuary, pigs never cease to amaze us with their cleverness, creativity, and love for belly rubs and treats.

Goat Myths Busted
MYTH: “Goats can live happily alone.” FACT: Goats are deeply social and thrive with companionship.
MYTH: “Goats are dumb.” FACT: Quite the opposite! Goats are curious problem-solvers with strong memories.
MYTH: “Goats eat anything.” FACT: While goats are mouthy and inquisitive, they’re actually picky eaters who need a carefully balanced diet—not tin cans.
Our goats are healthy, social, and occasionally mischievous—just the way we like them.

Donkey Myths Busted
MYTH: “Donkeys are just pasture ornaments.” FACT: Donkeys are affectionate and loyal, often forming deep bonds with their caretakers.
MYTH: “Donkeys are stubborn.” FACT: Donkeys are cautious thinkers. What seems like stubbornness is really a wise pause to assess safety.
Our donkeys add a calm, grounded presence to our sanctuary family—and they’re more like loyal dogs than you’d expect.

Llama Myths Busted
MYTH: “Llamas always spit at people.” FACT: Llamas rarely spit at humans—it’s mostly for llama-to-llama communication, especially during disputes.
MYTH: “Llamas are aggressive.” FACT: Llamas are generally gentle and are even used in therapy and as livestock guardians.
MYTH: “Llamas don’t need much care.” FACT: Like all animals, llamas need proper nutrition, enrichment, and attentive care.
MYTH: “Llamas are weird-looking horses.” FACT: Like our alpacas, llamas are camelids—relatives of camels—not equines.
MYTH: “Llamas are only good for packing.” FACT: Llamas are versatile and affectionate animals with unique personalities.
From the bold and silly to the sweet and shy, each of our llamas brings joy—and love a gentle chin scratch once they trust you.

Cow Myths Busted
MYTH: “Cows are dumb.” FACT: Cows are smart, social, and even get excited when they learn new things.
MYTH: “Cows don’t feel emotions.” FACT: Cows grieve, celebrate reunions, and form lifelong friendships.
MYTH: “Cows are just food animals.” FACT: Every cow is an individual with emotion, intelligence, and a right to peaceful life.
MYTH: “All cows are the same.” FACT: Cows have wonderfully unique personalities—shy, playful, affectionate, or goofy.
MYTH: “Cows don’t need much care.” FACT: Cows thrive with proper nutrition, healthcare, enrichment, and love.
Our cows adore brushing, sunbathing, and cuddling with their best friends—and we’re honored to provide them the care they deserve.

Dog Myths Busted
MYTH: “A wagging tail means a happy dog.” FACT: Tail wags can signal many emotions—joy, anxiety, or even a warning.
MYTH: “Dogs are colorblind.” FACT: Dogs can see some colors—especially blues and yellows—just not the full spectrum.
MYTH: “Growling means aggression.” FACT: Growling is a communication tool—often a plea for space or comfort, not a threat.
MYTH: “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks.” FACT: Senior dogs love learning and benefit greatly from mental stimulation.
MYTH: “Dogs just want to please humans.” FACT: Dogs are independent thinkers influenced by curiosity, instinct, and experience.
From spirited pups to wise seniors, our dogs remind us daily of the power of compassion, trust, and understanding.

Animal myths do more than spread misinformation—they can lead to fear, neglect, and animals being unfairly judged or mistreated. By shining a light on the truth, we not only improve their lives but deepen our connection with them.

Thank you for being a part of this journey. With your support, we’re building a more compassionate world—one where animals are celebrated, respected, and understood.