by Susie
Sweet Lucky Lady, one of the many animals we have rescued from New York City through the years (including Maxine, Goodwin and Autumn), arrived at Farm Sanctuary in 2007 with a deeply-rooted fear of humans. Like many farm animals saved from the city’s live animal markets – places where animals are sold to customers for a few dollars apiece and slaughtered on site – she backed into corners or took refuge among flock mates to get away from people, even those who were bringing her feed. But after being torn from her mother’s side; hauled off to the city where she was yelled at, poked, prodded, and stuck in a pen with other terrorized animals; and pursued through the Bronx after she narrowly escaped slaughter, who could blame her for being scared?
Even so, it seems that time can sometimes heal all wounds, and after more than a year spent getting acquainted with people from a distance, Lucky Lady is not quite so shy anymore. In fact, following caregivers around while they are distributing medications and stealing a quick nose-to-nose nuzzle with her pals is now a daily routine for Lucky. And, where once you needed a telephoto lens to take her photo, you can see from the extreme close-up below that she is always right there to strike a pose when you pull out a camera now. The change has been remarkable, and it is clear when you look at Lucky that she is finally at ease and feels very secure in her new life.
Like most animals who come to Farm Sanctuary, Lucky Lady seems to realize that she is loved and has nothing more to fear. When animals like her can let go and trust again it makes you stop and think about how often we humans choose not to forgive or open ourselves up again to those who commit even minor infractions against us, which are nothing in comparison to what animals like Lucky experience every day. Seeing this incredible sheep’s intense fear replaced with acceptance and love gives me hope that we all have the capacity to heal and forgive if only we can open our hearts to the good in the world.
Thank God for the good people at Farm Sanctuary......you will truly be rewarded. Does she let you pet her?
Posted by: Christine Ostopoff | March 21, 2009 at 10:35 PM
I took many photos of Lucky Lady 2 years ago when I was at the FS in August. I got right next to her and took photos of us together. She was quite calm and sweet and I petted her softly when I bent down for photos. She was really sweet and docile and it was just a couple of months after her rescue. I felt so lucky in being able to share a few minutes with her. Sheep are so special and adorable.
Posted by: Ana | March 15, 2009 at 06:18 PM
What a wonderful story & beautiful photos! I sponsor Lucky Lady at the farm, and I am looking forward to finally meeting her this summer! She is a perfect example of an animal's spirit & will to overcome and live in peace.
Posted by: kathleen wissenz | March 11, 2009 at 07:43 PM
We can learn so much from animals!
Posted by: Terhi | March 11, 2009 at 03:16 PM
Beautifully written!
Posted by: Emma | March 11, 2009 at 02:37 PM
I learned about Farm Sanctuary when Lucky Lady escaped- thank goodness!- down the street from where I worked in the South Bronx. Following her story and its very happy ending was so moving that I will always have a very special place in my heart for Farm Sanctuary and, of course, for Lucky Lady who opened my eyes to the good that can be done for exploited animals everywhere. I will now do anything I can to put an end to live markets in the city, which are an assault on the animals and the residents who are forced to be exposed to cruel and brutal industry in neighborhoods.
Any live markets on the Upper East Side? What about Park Slope? I seriously doubt it! Few people really want these places around and the poor get stuck with them. Just another example of how the food animal industry is exploitative to the most marginalized people as well as to the animals. Thank you, Farm Sanctuary for all that you do to bring about an end to this cruelty!
Posted by: Melinda | March 11, 2009 at 11:19 AM
That last photo of Lucky Lady is just lovely. What a sweetie.
Posted by: Becci | March 10, 2009 at 02:06 PM