How It All Began

In the lush expanse of Litchfield’s rolling hills, a tale of compassion began—a tale that would become the cornerstone of the JP Farm Animal Sanctuary. At the heart of this story was Belle, a Scottish Highland cow with a gentle gaze and a spirit as indomitable as the breezes that sweep through Connecticut’s countryside. Born in 2011, Belle’s journey was one of transformation, from a life of uncertainty to one brimming with love and care.

It was 2013 when Belle, then a young cow of just two years, found her forever home at the JP Farm Animal Sanctuary. As the sanctuary’s first rescued farm animal, Belle quickly became more than just a resident—she became a beacon of hope and a symbol of the sanctuary’s mission. Her presence marked the beginning of a profound legacy, one that would see the sanctuary grow from its original roots in Newtown, CT, to a haven for over 20 rescued farm animals.

Belle’s story is not just one of rescue but also of inspiration. She was a gentle giant among her peers, the original of the first six Scottish Highland cows to grace the sanctuary’s pastures. With her arrival, she helped to till the soil of compassion, nurturing the sanctuary into the flourishing refuge it is today.

Throughout her years, Belle’s impact was palpable. Visitors were often greeted by her serene demeanor and the iconic, shaggy fur that so characteristically defined her breed. Her eyes seemed to tell tales of gratitude for the second chance she had been given, and in her silent strength, she encouraged many to consider the lives of farm animals like her.

Sadly, in 2022, Belle’s journey came to a natural close. Yet, even as we mourn her passing, we celebrate the indelible hoofprints she left behind. Belle represents all of those who have passed but not been forgotten. Her memory is a tapestry woven through the very essence of our sanctuary, reminding us why we began and why we continue.