WORDS MATTER

We get many questions (or implied questions) and we will always try to answer them.

One question that arises is the use of the word "hoofstock". At the Sanctuary, our non-use of the words "livestock" or "poultry" is important. These words place animals into groups that reduce their individuality. "Hoofstock" is a word usually brought into conversations from people who have life experiences in zoos and other industrial use of animals with hooves, etc. This word places all animals with hooves into a faceless group thinking that Marky Goat is the same as Sunny Horse, Adele Donkey, Sully Sheep, Penny Blossom Pig or Audrey Heifer Cow.

In Sanctuary, each rescue is an individual of course. We might on occasion use the term "Feathered Friends"when we refer to conversation affecting all birds. Or "Bovine Buddies" for a conversation about the cows. The word 'equine' is more scientific, and help us categorize the horses (Equus ferus caballus) and donkeys (Equus africanus asinus) when we need to do so. So you will not see the use of industrial livestock, hoofstock or poultry for our residents or their many relatives that can't be at sanctuaries.

Words matter. We try very hard to use words that respect individuality, or celebrate the beauty of the group.

Dory Pony is hanging out with Ripley Pony waiting for breakfast delivery in the Winter!

Mini-fact: Hoofed mammals are divided into two major groups: the Artiodactyla, or cloven-hooved mammals, and the Perissodactyla, or odd-toed mammals.