We thought 2011 was a busy year for us at Cedar Row with the rescue of 32 sheep from The Ontario Vet College, and running between 2 farms, for 8 months, but 2012 has proven to be just as busy with many animals needing our help.

In 2012 we have welcomed 4 new farm pigs, 2 six day old goats, 45 ex- battery hens, 3 broiler hens and 2 wonderful turkeys.

We also fostered or helped find homes for, 5 pot bellied pigs, 8 ex- battery hens and 3 farm pigs including Rusty, an 800 lb pig. It wasn’t easy finding a home for Rusty due to his size but we were able to place him in a good home that he shares with a few sheep a goat and 2 pot bellied pigs.

Joaquin, one of our farm pigs that came to us in September was badly injured after being accidentally stepped on. He was left in a field for 2 days because they thought he was dead. He surprised everyone when he lifted his head, so it took 5 people to distract the mother and get him out. When he arrived here, he was unable to walk because the injury was right on his spine. After months of acupuncture and lots of TLC, Joaquin is now living with the rest of his friends.

Cedar Row welcomed 3 amazing speakers, with Rob Laidlaw of Zoocheck Canada speaking to visitors at our open house in June. Dr. Will Tuttle visiting us in August,and Dr. Melanie Joy in December. Dr. Joy is the author of Why We Love Dogs, Eat Pigs and Wear Cows. We also welcomed about 250 people to our annual open house in June.

On a personal note, the twins Patrick & Cicada turned 13 this year. Parents of teenagers…yikes! We lost Stephen Watson, a dear friend and supporter of Cedar Row this past summer as well.

We are continuing our work visits / vegan potlucks every month. We have between 15 – 25 people join us for a few hours of cleaning, and then we sit down to a wonderful vegan potluck together. It brings people together, and gives them a chance to interact with the animals and make new friends.

Cedar Row is very busy, trying to make a difference to both animals and people, by opening up our sanctuary and our space. We like people to interact with the animals so they can see why they shouldn’t eat them, or why they should continue to fight for them.

We truly appreciate your support and could not help the animals without it. We thank you very much.

Sincerely,

Siobhan & Peter Poole