Turkey 'Adoption' Trend Soars This Thanksgiving

Americans are increasingly choosing to 'adopt' turkeys for Thanksgiving, creating a heartwarming alternative to traditional meals. This growing movement allows individuals and families to sponsor turkeys, providing them with lifelong care at sanctuaries rather than facing slaughter. Donors receive photos, certificates, and opportunities for virtual or in-person visits, fostering a unique connection with the birds.

Animal sanctuaries nationwide are promoting this practice, highlighting the individual personalities of turkeys and educating the public about conditions in factory farms. Programs like the one at Luvin Arms in Colorado have seen their turkey sponsorships double each year since their inception, demonstrating a significant shift in holiday traditions and a growing concern for animal welfare.

This 'adoption' trend not only spares tens of millions of turkeys annually but also serves as an educational tool. By fostering empathy and understanding, sanctuaries encourage a reevaluation of holiday customs and promote a deeper appreciation for the lives of sentient beings. Farm Sanctuary pioneered this concept in 1986, paving the way for similar successful programs across the country.