Boots and flannel were de rigueur at the ribbon cutting of the Michigan Humane Center for Farm Animal Care at the Abraham Ranch in Clarkston, located west of M-15 and south of Weidemann Drive, on October 25.
This facility, soon to be serving hundreds of farm animals and livestock each year, is the next phase of Michigan Humane’s commitment to providing compassionate care and second chances to animals in need.
The Abraham Ranch’s purpose is to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome farm animals brought in to Michigan Humane as rescues, strays or surrenders.
The facility is situated on 80 acres and includes a brand-new 14,000 square foot barn with enclosed animal stalls, an indoor and outdoor riding arena, 11 different pastures, walking and riding trails, chicken coops, water habitats and more.
Speaking prior to the event, Michigan Humane President and CEO Matt Pepper noted, “the need for these animals already exists. We’re receiving calls about animals that might be the victims of cruelty or neglect, calls from owners who need our support services and requests from other agencies to support their communities. The Abraham Ranch, which is an amazing gift from Katie and Erik Abraham, gives us not only a space to address the physical needs of these animals, but their social and emotional needs as well.”
Echoing that sentiment, the Abrahams acknowledged how important the care and well-being of these animals is to them, sharing they believe all animals, whether cats, dogs, or horses deserve, “to be treated with compassion and have a place to safely stay while waiting for a new home.”
Animals anticipated to take up residence at the Abraham Ranch include chickens, ducks, pigs, goats and cows. The facility is designed using best-in-class animal care leveraging Michigan Humane’s veterinary team and partnerships for animal rehoming and placement.
Funding is needed to grow a dedicated, full-time farm team. Abraham Ranch will also serve as a training facility for veterinary students, cruelty investigators and animal control officers, and a gathering space for the community.
For more info, abrahamranch.com.