Staff Spotlight: The Farm Animal Rescuer

Like cats and dogs, sometimes farm animals need rescuing, too. That’s where Nuisance Farm and Sanctuary comes in. Meet Marie, Business Lender at BHFCU and proud owner of a farm animal-focused rescue.

 

The day starts early for Marie. By 6:30 am, she’s gotten herself ready before the rest of her crew, animal and human alike, need looking after. In the barn, she manages feeding, watering, and herding 20+ animals to their respective places for the day. But she wouldn’t have it any other way. Waking up on her farm is a childhood dream come true for Marie.

 

“Growing up in a small suburb in Germany, my chore of getting milk from a small local dairy turned into my first job helping with the animals,” Marie recalled. “Connecting with animals came more naturally than trying to make human friends. Provide their basic care while treating them with respect and kindness, and you have a friend for life!”

 

 


 

 

 

Her family’s travels didn’t allow many pets during childhood, so she settled for walking the neighborhood dogs. Finally, at 16, she got a horse, opening a whole new world. Fast forward to the present day, Marie found herself at the doorstep of a big decision to start her own farm animal-focused rescue. We won’t bury the lead; she took the plunge!

 

“I really didn’t plan to open a rescue because I knew I would want to do it the right way, which means responsibility and expenses,” explained Marie. “A series of events left several neglected and misunderstood farm animals in my care. Armed with research of other farm animal sanctuaries bursting at the seams and hints from my veterinarian, friends, and family, I could no longer ignore the fact that there was a real need.”


Nuisance Farm and Sanctuary specializes in the care of pigs. The micropig trend has led many to bring pigs into their home as pets without proper research and, consequently, needing to rehome them soon after. Marie’s journey started with an abandoned fat blind Kune Kune pig with curling hooves and a missing ear. She now cares for 14 pigs, one dog, one turkey, four ducks, and numerous chickens, each with their own unique story and personality.

 

When asked her favorite things about rescue, Marie didn’t need to think about it. “I love bonding with the animals in my care and watching them thrive. Pigs bond very strongly to their families and caregivers, so to watch them transfer that trust to me is incredibly rewarding.”

Looking to the future, Marie has both short- and long-term goals for the sanctuary. Recently, she’s been actively seeking ways to get involved in the community and provide education on pigs. And, if you’re looking for a pet pig of your own (and can pass the rigorous adoption screening!), six piglets are currently on the hunt for their forever homes. Long-term, Marie is working to secure more funding to provide superior care to her resident animals, including securely fencing her property to make room for more rescues in need. 

 

By now, you may be asking yourself, Nuisance Farm and Sanctuary, what kind of name is that? It’s actually one of love and tolerance on the part of Marie’s husband, who fondly refers to her furry friends as one big nuisance!

 

Follow along with Nuisance Farm and Sanctuary happenings and, if you’re called to it like Marie, find out how you can help.