Thinking About 'Adopting' a Turkey This Thanksgiving?

Gus, a turkey, enjoys a very different fate during Thanksgiving than many of his fellow birds across the US.

While strutting his stuff at a vast animal sanctuary in the Colorado plains, staff members frequently stop to give him affection. They stroke his feathers, embrace him warmly, or gently nuzzle his face. Gus found his new home here after being spared through a governor's pardon in 2023.

Lanette Cook, responsible for education and engagement, is often seen chatting with Gus, asking if he's in the mood for some cuddles.

Increasingly, turkeys like Gus are being 'adopted,' offering an alternative to being the centerpiece of a Thanksgiving feast.

Animal sanctuaries nationwide are promoting a novel Thanksgiving tradition. Families can choose to sponsor a turkey and contribute to its lifelong well-being. In exchange, sponsors receive photographs, official certificates, and occasionally, personal visits with the birds.

This initiative aims to save even a small portion of the millions of turkeys typically sacrificed during this season, many of which endure harsh conditions on industrial farms, according to animal welfare advocates.

People sponsor turkeys either for themselves or as a thoughtful gesture for friends or relatives, displaying the turkey's picture on their Thanksgiving tables.

At Luvin Arms Sanctuary near Denver, a donation of $25 provides not just a certificate and photo, but also a chance for a virtual or in-person meet with the turkeys, stated Kelly Nix, the executive director. Since initiating this program in 2022, the number of sponsors has consistently doubled annually, with this year’s target being $18,000.

Their website highlights Gus and his turkey companions, along with descriptions of their unique characteristics (Gus, for instance, is quite chatty!). It urges the public to consider supporting the turkeys this Thanksgiving, possibly inspiring a reevaluation of holiday customs.

The financial contributions have been used to expand their outdoor roaming spaces and to cover food, rescue efforts, and veterinary expenses. These costs can be substantial due to health issues arising from the way turkeys are bred in commercial settings to grow rapidly, added Nix.

The program transcends monetary contributions, serving an educational purpose. It raises awareness of factory farming conditions and encourages viewing turkeys as more than just holiday meals.

Kelly Nix conveyed, 'Just pausing to reflect on the significance of a turkey’s life can be a pivotal conversation starter for many.'

Farm Sanctuary, operating in both New York and California, pioneered this turkey adoption concept in 1986. Initially, people were baffled not just by the concept of adopting turkeys but also by the notion of animal rescue.

Over nearly 40 years, they've saved thousands of turkeys, and public support has evolved considerably. They've received donations reaching hundreds of thousands in certain years, as per Gene Baur, president and co-founder.

Baur commented, 'Traditions don't have to remain static. We can evolve them to better reflect our values.'

Barn Sanctuary in Chelsea, Michigan, has been running a similar initiative since 2023. Chase DeBack, charged with advocacy and education, highlights the endearing personalities of these birds.

He affectionately described their residents: Lewis is quite aloof but enjoys socializing; Sabrina and Hilda are curious about newcomers and activities.

DeBack reflected, 'Turkeys often get attention only after they’re no longer alive. We wanted to spotlight their individuality and the gentle affinities they share with people and each other.'