Inspiring Kindness and Compassion towards Animals, Our Planet, and Each Other
Inspiring Kindness and Compassion towards Animals, Our Planet, and Each Other

Larger Than Life

Some of our animals have gone through so much trauma before coming to The Gentle Barn that there is always an underlying quietness about them, always fearing the worst. Some rescued animals are angry and act out. And some go through a transformation here when they finally let go of the past and are healed. But then some are just larger than life and have a strength about them from the start. Menorah’s piglets at our California location, Henry in TN, and Petunia in Missouri might have been afraid and shy of us at the very beginning, but overcame it very quickly and now the barn belongs to them!

Tinsel, Dreidel, Blitzen, Miracle, Gingerbread, and Mistletoe came to The Gentle Barn with their mom, Menorah, when they were only a few weeks old. They ran all over the barnyard with their little legs, squealing and playing and following each other around making all of us giggle. It took them no time at all till they were rolling over for belly rubs, snuggling in our laps, and loving life. They nursed from Menorah for five months, but that didn't stop them from eating everything they could get a hold of. They knocked over the trash, busted open the feed room, and came running for treats with much enthusiasm. We have had to work hard to keep them occupied including giving them cookie balls, popcorn, and pumpkin parties every day to keep them active and amused. We wake each morning with them whining for breakfast, and we always know when it is dinner time as they fill the air with their squeals of anticipation. They are the masters of the barnyard and they have huge energy that fills the entire property with power and positivity.

Henry was unsure of us in the beginning, given he had escaped a pig farm and was emaciated. But once we pulled all the ticks off of him and showed him what a tummy rub felt like, he sprung back to life. Henry is a natural leader and caregiver and started taking care of his brother, Horton when Horton was immobile. Henry would pick bouquets of yellow flowers for Horton and bring him huge mouthfuls of hay for dinner. Henry would even give Horton tummy rubs with his nose. Once Horton passed away, Henry went on to care for our female piggies, Lilli and Dream. He is less nurturing and more demanding with the girls, but that's just what they both needed; a strong daddy! Henry breaks up arguments between the two, makes sure they are not splashing in the pool, and sees them off to dinner before he will eat. There is a serene feeling in the pig pasture with Henry around, like he has it all under control!

Petunia’s harsh beginning never affected her. She has a swagger all her own as if she owns the barnyard. She knows she is cute and works it to gain attention from us and the favors of the other pigs. She loves belly rubs but does not like being touched in the face and is not afraid to give us a throaty warning if we forget. She spends her days excavating the yard, digging new pools, and lounging in the warm straw with her sisters. Petunia is not afraid to stand up to Rose, our oldest pig, but only if it is justified, she never takes advantage of her power and strong voice.

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I think strength is one of the many healing qualities that animals have to share with us. They are grounded, opinionated, centered, strong, and know who they are. They make no apologies and they know what they want. Many of us struggle with trying to please others, not being sure of what we feel, and forgetting who we are. Knowing Menorah’s babies, Henry, and Petunia is inspiring. It reminds me that there is no shame in walking our own walk, knowing who we are, and sharing our light with the world, not trying to be anyone but us! We are all unique in our own way, no one else can be us! Our piggies know that, and they are here to share their strength, power, and wisdom with us to be the example for us to follow. Come give them a tummy rub when you can, I am sure you too will feel their confidence like a strong, sturdy hug.

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Upcoming Events

  • Chakra Meditation and Sound Healing (Winter 2024)

    March 2nd 2024 - The Gentle Barn California

    Clear, Balance and Align your 7 main Chakras through guided meditation, chanting, and Integrative sound bath. When your chakras are aligned, the energy moves through you more freely, and you can feel in harmony with all aspects of your physical, emotional and spiritual self.

  • Thermal Horizon - Windsong Retreat (Spring 2024)

    May 4th 2024 - The Gentle Barn California

    Let’s come together as a community as we support The Gentle Barn in their endeavor to enrich the lives of abused animals worldwide. Let’s bring our loving hearts, the spirit of opportunity and fill our cups emotionally, spiritually, and physically as we celebrate unity in community by helping these wonderful support animals.

  • Open Sunday in Missouri

    We are excited to be open to the public again on Sunday, at The Gentle Barn: Missouri.

  • Open Sunday in California

    We are excited to be open to the public again on Sunday, at The Gentle Barn: California.

  • Open Sunday in Tennessee

    We are excited to be open to the public again on Sunday, at The Gentle Barn: Tennessee.


Spotlight Sponsor of the Month

At Katjes we believe that every life is precious and these values extend beyond our plant-based gummies. As part of our campaign featuring rescued animals, we’re honored to join hands with The Gentle Barn, to support their non-stop efforts in protecting animals. By drawing attention to their heart-warming stories, we hope to provide food for thought when we say: Kindness just tastes better.

Eliza Jahn

Head of Marketing Katjes USA