October 27, 2025
This August, Herbivorous Acres animal sanctuary welcomed its newest resident — a two-month-old Holstein calf named Bonnie. Her story began with heartbreak but has turned into one of resilience, friendship, and joy. Bonnie was born a twin, but because her brother was a bull calf, her development was affected in a way common to twin cows of opposite sexes. Their shared placenta caused her to be born without functioning reproductive organs, making her unable to have calves — and, tragically, considered “useless” to the dairy industry. Her twin brother had already been sold for veal, and Bonnie was left alone and in need of a safe home.
A New Beginning for Bonnie
Herbivorous Acres manager, Marie, received an urgent call about Bonnie’s situation, and within days, Bonnie arrived at the sanctuary to start her new life. “She was all alone and desperately in need of a second chance,” the team shared. “If anyone knows the pain of losing a twin, it’s our other cow resident, Hot Wheels. He has a new cow friend now and is nothing short of thrilled.” Watching the two calves bond has been heartwarming for everyone who sees them.
Settling Into Sanctuary Life
Since her arrival, Bonnie has adjusted beautifully. She’s completed her quarantine, received her vaccines and health checks, and is almost ready to move in full-time with Hot Wheels and Barney the goat. “Watching her explore this life of freedom has been an honor,” said Marie. “She’s independent, strong, brave, and curious — she’s never backed down from a new experience.”
Bonnie’s Bright Personality
Despite her tough start, Bonnie has shown nothing but energy and joy. She’s known for zooming around the pasture at lightning speed, munching on pumpkins, and snuggling up for naps next to Hot Wheels. She’s also developed a sweet friendship with Arthur, the farm cat, and loves playing in the rain.
A Life Filled with Love and Freedom
Bonnie’s story is a reminder of the incredible resilience and individuality of farmed animals. Once seen as “worthless” by the industry, she now lives each day surrounded by care, compassion, and peace. “Her forever home is one full of love, peace, and safety,” Marie said. And judging by the joy in her eyes and the spring in her step, Bonnie knows she’s finally where she belongs.
What Herbivorous Acres Does for Rescued Animals
Herbivorous Acres, a nonprofit sanctuary, is dedicated to rescuing farmed animals from cruelty and neglect. They offer a permanent, loving home for animals who have endured the hardships of factory farming. Currently, the sanctuary is home to 20 animals, including goats, pigs, ducks, hens, roosters, and even a cow. The sanctuary’s mission is to provide a safe space for these animals to live out their lives with peace and dignity, while also raising awareness about the importance of compassionate treatment for farmed animals.
Herbivorous Acres’ efforts extend beyond just caring for animals. Their goal is to shift how society views farmed animals, encouraging people to see them as sentient beings deserving of respect and compassion. The sanctuary aims to inspire change by leading through example, showing that peace begins on your plate.
Herbivorous Acres operates a little differently from other sanctuaries, focusing on a smaller number of residents to ensure each animal receives the highest level of care. Without a volunteer program in place yet and with one dedicated individual managing both daily animal care and operations, capacity is currently limited — but with hopes to expand in the future!
Other Residents of Herbivorous Acres
Olivia and Lucky aren’t the only animals whose lives have been transformed by Herbivorous Acres. The sanctuary is home to other animals, each with their own story of rescue and renewal. Some of the sanctuary’s other beloved residents include:
Cornelius and Dennis, the roosters
These animals, like Olivia, have found safety and care at Herbivorous Acres, where they can live free from the fear and suffering of factory farming.
Our Partner Farm Sanctuaries
Herbivorous Acres is just one of several farm sanctuaries in the region doing incredible work to protect farmed animals. Other sanctuaries such as Chicken Run Rescue, Farmaste, Soulspace, and Spring Farm are also dedicated to providing safe, loving homes for animals in need. Compassionate Action for Animals (CAA) regularly highlights these sanctuaries and their residents, celebrating the lives they’ve saved and the impact they’re making. Every month, CAA features a sanctuary resident in their blog and newsletter, giving readers a glimpse into the lives of these amazing animals.
Check our blog page regularly and sign up for our weekly newsletter so you don’t miss any of the endearing stories of residents of local sanctuaries.
Connect With Compassionate Action for Animals
Compassionate Action for Animals (CAA) hosts many events throughout the year, including Twin Cities Veg Fest, Vegan Recipe Club, cooking classes, potlucks, outreach events, and so much more! CAA’s work includes outreach events, educational initiatives, and activities that help build community around plant-based living and animal advocacy.
To stay informed about upcoming events and new sanctuary residents, follow CAA on social media or visit their website. Follow Compassionate Action for Animals on TikTok | Instagram | Facebook | Online
