In a world plagued by darkness and despair, it can be easy to succumb to cynicism. We all face injustices and mistreatment, and sometimes life just isn’t fair. Nobody knows that better than the animals at The Gentle Barn. Yet, they continue to teach love and compassion, even using their stories to heal hurting humans.
Middle Tennessee is privileged to be the home of one of three magical locations of national nonprofit organization The Gentle Barn.
Nestled just off bustling Highway 231, The Gentle Barn serves as a sanctuary for both animals and humans. Here, animals who have endured severe neglect and abuse find a haven of rehabilitation and healing. Through expert vet care and various healing modalities, coupled with an abundance of love, these animals find solace and renewal. Once they’re restored to health, they either find forever homes with loving families or receive lifelong sanctuary at The Gentle Barn. And, when the time is right, these animals become partners in healing people with the same stories of trauma.
On Sundays, The Gentle Barn opens its doors to the public, offering a firsthand glimpse into compassion and resilience. Visitors have the chance to meet Lolli, the goat who joyfully zooms around in her wheelchair, and hear the heartwarming tales of Maybelle’s reunion with her calf, Miles, and Audrey’s journey from the path to slaughter to love and motherhood.
As they cuddle with the cows and stroke Harmony the turkey’s feathers, visitors witness the transformative power of empathy and connection.
Throughout the week, The Gentle Barn collaborates with various schools, agencies, group homes and shelters, using the enchanting power of animals to help cultivate understanding and restoration in the lives of visitors.
Program Specialist Terry Barkley / Harmony the Turkey
“We let the animals do the magic . . . it’s a privilege to tell their stories and watch them do what they do,” said Gentle Barn Program Specialist Terry Barkley.
Ellie Laks, the founder and visionary behind The Gentle Barn, has dedicated her life to amplifying the voices of the voiceless.
In her latest book, Cow Hug Therapy, Ellie tells the remarkable stories of recovery, resilience, forgiveness and second chances in the lives of the animals that have shaped her existence. The book is more than just a collection of animal stories; it’s a call to action, a reminder that kindness and empathy can change the world.
Founder Ellie Laks
“I like to say the best parts of me were learned by animals,” Laks said. “Recently, they have been teaching me about the importance of self-care. The book shares the animals’ stories to teach humans how to best show up for themselves.”
She also speaks of the need to shift our priorities from owning and conquering to community and inclusion.
“These concepts are best taught by the matriarch cows that I’ve had the tremendous fortune of spending the last 25 years with,” Laks said.
Cow Hug Therapy will be released on May 21, and signed copies are now available to pre-order at gentlebarn.org.
The Gentle Barn’s mission extends beyond its gates. It relies on the support and partnership of the community to continue its work. By sponsoring an animal, donating for vet care, visiting the barn or spreading awareness, individuals can play a role in ensuring the sanctuary of current and future animals in need. Let’s join forces with The Gentle Barn to build a future where compassion and kindness prevail, one small act at a time.
In addition to its Tennessee property, located at 9295 Christiana Fosterville Rd. in Christiana, The Gentle Barn also operates farms in California and Missouri.
To purchase tickets for a Sunday visit or to learn more, visit gentlebarn.org/tennessee.
