Frequently Asked Questions
Where do you get your residents?
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We take in farmed animals that are abused, injured, or unwanted. They come from a variety of places, including transfers from other sanctuaries & rescue groups; directly from farmers who are planning to dispose of unwanted animals; and law enforcement seizure of abused, escaped, or neglected animals. We do not take animals if their release was paid (e.g., animals bought at auction or from farmers).
I know of an animal that needs sanctuary - can you take him/her?
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You are welcome to contact us via Facebook or through our contact information on the website. We are unable to take in the vast majority of animals that we learn about (there are simply too many animals in need of sanctuary), but we can sometimes share the need through our network of sanctuaries to increase the likelihood of finding the animal a home. Please note, we do not rescue potbelly pigs.
How are you different than a petting zoo or farm?
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In all human and resident interactions, the well-being of the resident is our highest priority. All residents have plenty of space to move away from human visitors if they don’t want to interact on a given day. Further, all funds raised by Farmaste go directly to the care of our residents or to educate the public about farmed animals. Finally, we treat our residents as you would treat your companion animals – we provide the highest quality health care and they stay with us for their duration of their natural lives.
Where are you located?
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We are located in Lindstrom, MN. The sanctuary’s physical address is 35890 Oasis Road, Lindstrom, MN 55045.
Can I come visit?
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Absolutely! You can find all of our events (including details about our weekly farm tours) here. You can also visit with the animals while volunteering for the sanctuary – information about volunteering is here. We are unable to accept visitors outside of scheduled events/prearranged private tours.
How is Farmaste funded?
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Farmaste is a federally registered nonprofit organization – a 501(c)(3). We are primarily funded by donations from our supporters. We have also been fortunate to receive grant funding from the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA).
Are my donations tax-deductible?
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We are a registered 501(c)(3). Therefore, depending on your individual tax situation, your donation may be tax-deductible. Our Federal Tax ID Number is 81-4117401.
You are a vegan sanctuary. What does that mean?
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It means we don’t use or sell any products from our residents (e.g., eggs or wool), pay to rescue animals, or let our residents breed. We also provide support and education about living a compassionate, vegan lifestyle. We believe that adopting a vegan lifestyle is the most effective way to reduce the suffering of farmed animals everywhere.
I'm not vegan. Can I still visit/volunteer?​
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Of course! Many of our visitors and volunteers are not vegetarian or vegan. We believe everyone, human and non-human, should always be treated with respect and kindness. We also support people in making incremental changes that can improve the lives of farmed animals (e.g., adopting Meatless Mondays or supporting anti-farm animal cruelty legislation). Our goal is to make everyone feel welcome!
Do you have volunteer opportunities?​
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Do we ever! Click here to find out how you can volunteer with Farmaste.