Friends not food

While our board/committee members are not required to be vegan please remember that a critical aspect of the sanctuary is that we are built on vegan ethics and encourage a plant based lifestyle. When interacting on behalf of Little Woods we ask that you not consume any animal products.

Language matters

When referring to animals, whether sanctuary residents or not, we don’t use words like “it” that are used to describe an object rather than an individual. Animals are sentient beings so we use words like they/them, he/him, or she/her. This small act can help shift the way we and others view animals. Appropriately putting them in the category of individuals verses commodities.

All animals are equal

What is speciesism? Speciesism is the act/mindset that one species is superior or inferior to another. For instance that dogs and cats are somehow superior to pigs and cows. It can also be placing the value of their care based on their value of how they perform or produce for human’s benefit. Or that birds don’t deserve the same level of care as say a horse. Viewing all animals as equal and equally deserving of the same standards of care is crucial to how we operate.

Always lead with kindness

It is inevitable that we encounter people who have strong feelings about what we do and believe and are in opposition to our beliefs. When this happens we choose kindness. We do not engage aggressively or try to argue. Kindness is key in making a difference. The same kindness we show the animals we choose to show humans. Even when they actively go against what we believe is morally and ethically right. We believe that leading by example will allow people to see the truth and be more receptive to our message. Instead of arguing and trying to convince someone that animals deserve to live we provide the opportunities for people to come to that conclusion on their own terms. Meeting a pig and realizing how intelligent and emotional they are first hand is much more effective than arguing with someone why eating them is wrong. There are however situations and interactions in which healthy debate is effective, and it is up to us to make the decision in individual circumstances whether or not to engage.

Security and safety

For safety and security reasons we do not publish or give out the address of the sanctuary. The two main reasons for this are to protect the current residents as well as prevent any unexpected dumping of animals, which is sadly a very common occurrence at sanctuaries and rescues. When people ask where we are you can tell them in Mecosta, MI. And if they are asking in regards to signing up for an event or volunteering let them know once they sign up they will receive the exact address. When needed explaining why we don’t give out the address we have never had anyone not understand.

Business fundraising and partnerships

When connecting with businesses or other organizations there are a few key things to consider. If approached by a business wanting to host a fundraiser or looking for reciprocation for making a contribution we require that they align with our ethical standards. We do not partner with non vegan restaurants for the obvious reason that raising money by contributing to the killing of the very animals we work to save is a conflict of interests and values. Outside of the food industry the chances of running into a conflict is less likely. A lot of companies and organizations have interests in partnering where they donate goods or funds in return for being promoted by us. In most cases this is acceptable and we are happy to work together. We do not do partnerships that require us to promote a good for a percentage of the sales, with some exceptions. There are many predatory businesses out there whose entire model is built on using nonprofits platforms and supporters to push their goods.