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A Haven for Recovering Animals: Herberts Farm in Germany
Nestled in the picturesque town of Rottorf, in the Helmstedt district, lies Herberts Farm - a sanctuary dedicated to providing a safe haven for animals rescued from difficult or abusive conditions.
For over two decades, Wiebke has been passionate about animal welfare, and along with her partner Annika, they have transformed a 12-hectare property into a sanctuary for over 80 animals, including chickens, rabbits, goats, pigs, guinea pigs, cats, and dogs.
Herberts Farm's story began with a commitment to animal rescue and rehabilitation. The couple, who took over the property four years ago, didn't actively seek animals, but they came to them through calls, tips, and classified ads. They found inspiration and strength in their life with and for the animals.
The sanctuary is more than just a refuge; it's also an educational site, raising awareness about animal rights and promoting humane treatment. The animals are allowed to move freely on the quiet, idyllic property, living in species-appropriate conditions without any cages.
Wiebke works from morning till evening, performing various tasks such as feeding animals, cleaning stalls, doing repair work, and walking dogs. She also opens an esoteric shop on the property for a few hours on two days a week, offering services like animal communication and shamanic journeys. Annika, who works as a physiotherapist, funds the care of the animals at Herberts Farm.
Many of the animals at Herberts Farm have had difficult lives before arriving. They often come from factory farming, poor treatment, or being overwhelmed. Wiebke and Annika have a special fondness for chickens, many of which they rescue from battery cages, where the chickens have never seen daylight. The couple finds great joy in seeing the chickens experience daylight and fresh air for the first time at the sanctuary.
The animals at Herberts Farm continue to have difficult lives before arriving, but the couple invests a lot of work to make their lives beautiful at the sanctuary. Wiebke suggests that the animals give back a lot to them, although it may not be immediately apparent.
Herberts Farm's impact is felt in the local community and beyond, inspiring others to advocate for animal welfare. Its dedication to rescuing animals from hardship reflects a broader movement toward compassion and respect for all living beings. If you’re interested, I can provide more detailed information about specific animals saved there or the founders involved.
