Herd Around the Barn

Before there were animal sanctuaries and well-known non-profits acting on behalf of the voiceless, the ASPCA launched the modern animal rights movement in America. Its founder, Henry Bergh, is the topic of the critically acclaimed book, A Traitor To His Species: Henry Bergh and the Birth of the Animal Rights Movement, written by our guest, Dr. Ernest Freeberg of the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. In this fascinating conversation, Dr. Freeberg and Kathy talk about:

• How Henry Bergh was inspired to take action on behalf of animals after living among the elite in Russia
• The harrowing treatment of animals in late 1800s America, including those used as livestock, for entertainment, or for transportation
• The lengths Henry Bergh took to seek justice on behalf of animals; including raids on turtle ships and rat-baiting rings
• Henry Bergh and P.T. Barnum’s complicated relationship as two extremely influential leaders in New York City
• How Dr. Freeberg was inspired to write Bergh’s story and how his own perception of animals has changed

Connect with Kathy Stevens:

• Facebook: Kathy Stevens, Catskill Animal Sanctuary
• Twitter: @CASanctuary
• Books: Where the Blind Horse Sings
• Website: CASanctuary.org
• Instagram: @catskill_animal_sanctuary
• YouTube: Catskill Animal Sanctuary

While her staff takes a much-needed break for the Thanksgiving holiday, Kathy shares a warm message of gratitude to her listeners. She expresses her thanks for her CAS staff, the sanctuary's supporters, and the incredible animals themselves.

Be sure to tune in next week, as Kathy speaks with Matthew Glover, the founder of the wildly popular organization Veganuary! They'll talk about New Year's resolutions, going plant-based, and the time he spent visiting Catskill Animal Sanctuary.

Happy Thanksgiving!

While you may be familiar with her namesake and his groundbreaking artwork, have you ever heard of the world’s first PIG ARTIST? In this heart-opening episode, Kathy speaks to Joanne Lefson, founder of Farm Sanctuary South Africa, and collaborator with Pigcasso, the porcine Abstract Expressionist. Kathy and Joanne discuss:

• How Pigcasso came into Joanne’s life and shook things up when she enjoyed brushes more than toys
• Joanne’s lifelong love for animals and her journey to leading several rescue organizations, including Oscar’s Arc, inspired by the love of a shelter dog
• Pigcasso’s recent portrait of Prince Harry that has taken the internet by storm
• The process of creating art with an animal and what makes them as creative as humans
• Joanne’s goal of creating more vegans by showing them how intelligent and inspiring animals can be

To follow Pigcasso and Farm Sanctuary SA, find them on Instagram and Facebook.

Connect with Kathy Stevens:

• Facebook: Kathy Stevens, Catskill Animal Sanctuary
• Twitter: @CASanctuary
• Books: Where the Blind Horse Sings
• Website: CASanctuary.org
• Instagram: @catskill_animal_sanctuary
• YouTube: Catskill Animal Sanctuary