In a notable shift in Thanksgiving traditions, animal sanctuaries across the United States are encouraging families to adopt turkeys instead of consuming them. This movement aims to spare some of the tens of millions of turkeys that are typically slaughtered each year, many of which are raised in conditions criticized by animal rights advocates.
At the Luvin Arms Animal Sanctuary in Colorado, a turkey named Gus exemplifies this initiative. Since his pardon in 2023, Gus has enjoyed a life of comfort, roaming the sanctuary while receiving affection from visitors and staff alike. Lanette Cook, the sanctuary’s education and engagement manager, often interacts with Gus, asking him if he wants to “snuggle” during his time at the sanctuary.
This Thanksgiving season, the sanctuary has seen a significant increase in turkey adoptions. Families can support a turkey for a donation of $25, which provides them with a certificate, a photograph of their adopted turkey, and the option for a virtual or in-person visit. Kelly Nix, executive director of Luvin Arms, reported that since launching the program in 2022, the number of sponsorships has doubled each year, with this year’s goal set at $18,000.
The adoption initiative not only provides financial support for the turkeys’ care but also serves an educational purpose. It aims to raise awareness about the conditions in factory farms and highlight that turkeys are sentient beings deserving of compassion. Nix emphasizes that the program encourages conversations about the treatment of animals and invites families to reconsider their holiday practices.
Founded in 1986, Farm Sanctuary was one of the first organizations to adopt this model. Gene Baur, its president and co-founder, recalls the initial confusion surrounding the concept of adopting farm animals. Over the decades, the sanctuary has rescued thousands of turkeys and received substantial public support, with donations reaching hundreds of thousands of dollars in some years.
Baur noted, “We grow up with certain traditions. But just because something is a tradition doesn’t mean that it needs to remain as a tradition.” This sentiment resonates with families like that of Lizzie Parra, who have been adopting turkeys since 2021. Parra and her family, who follow a vegan lifestyle, utilize the adoption program not only to help save turkeys but also to promote awareness among their peers.
In Michigan, the Barn Sanctuary has begun a similar initiative. Chase DeBack, the sanctuary’s advocacy, education, and engagement coordinator, shares the stories of their resident turkeys to highlight their unique personalities. “We really wanted to shine a light on the unique personalities that turkeys have and how loving and caring they are for humans and for each other,” said DeBack.
As more families choose to adopt turkeys rather than eat them, the movement reflects a growing trend towards compassion and awareness surrounding animal welfare, especially during the holiday season. Through these programs, animal sanctuaries are not only providing a safe haven for turkeys but also encouraging a cultural shift that prioritizes empathy over tradition.
