The Gentle Barn Will Temporarily Close Beginning Friday, March 13
The Gentle Barn's mission of Teaching People Kindness and Compassion to Animals Each Other and our Planet, is at the forefront of correcting our global environmental challenge but needs to be put on hold in-person temporarily because our foremost priority is the health safety and wellbeing of our visitors, staff, volunteers, and community. The Gentle Barn is following the direction from the CDC and Local County Officials and therefore will be closed temporarily to the public at all three locations in CA, TN, and MO, effective immediately. Please also be aware that all private tours, field trips, and programmatic groups are also temporarily suspended and will be rescheduled as soon as we have been cleared to open.
It was our intention to keep our sanctuaries open so that our wonderful visitors could receive comfort and sanctuary amongst the animals during these uncertain times however because of the seriousness of what we are going through as a community and the potential spread of COVID-19 we were forced to make the tough decision to close.
If you already have tickets rest assured that your ticket will be valid and waiting for your use. We are so sorry and look very much forward to seeing you soon.
In regards to the animals, our loving amazing dedicated team will be onsight and caring for the animals under the direction of our founders Ellie & Jay. We have planned ahead and have purchased medical supplies. Ellie & Jay will be conducting Facebook Live feeds starting on Sunday so that you may continue to connect with The Gentle Barn and its animals in a positive light-hearted way.
The Gentle Barn will continue to monitor this national situation so that we can best notify you immediately of updates by our website, email and through our social media (facebook, instagram, twitter) channels. On behalf of our Founders, Board of Directors, Staff, Volunteers and all of The Gentle Barn animals we wish you health and look forward to seeing you very soon.
What You Can Do
- Stay home and avoid close contact with others if you or a member of your household are sick or feeling unwell.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, throw tissues in the trash, and immediately wash your hands
- Avoid close contact with sick people
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands
- Avoid shaking hands and use alternate greeting methods