On August 3, 1986, Farm Sanctuary rescued a sheep from a dead pile at a Pennsylvania stockyard. The sheep, later named Hilda, had been left for dead as a “downed” animal – one unable to stand or walk on their own accord. Our founders were there documenting conditions as part of our early investigative work and stopped to take a photo of the discarded animals. Hilda raised her head at the click of the camera. She was alive — and she needed help.
The stockyard released Hilda, and we rushed her to a veterinarian for end-of-life care. Instead, following treatment for dehydration, Hilda regained her strength and began walking on her own. She spent the next 11 years at Farm Sanctuary, passing peacefully from old age in 1997.
Hilda was Farm Sanctuary’s first rescued resident — and 36 years later, we continue our rescue, education, and advocacy work in her honor. Crucial to these efforts is our Friends of Hilda Club, a collective of Farm Sanctuary members who give $1,000 or more annually to fund our lifesaving work and move our mission forward.
This month, in honor of Hilda’s 36th rescue anniversary, we’re proud to highlight some of our Hilda Club members. Thank you for joining us in building a more just and compassionate world for all.