Today may be April Fool’s Day, but it feels like “Groundhog Day all over again.”
One year ago today, we caught our first glimpse of Frank — who escaped slaughter in Queens, NY, and ran for his life. Today, Frank has a happy forever home at Farm Sanctuary, and his story continues to inspire compassionate change for other farm animals just like him.
We saw this once again just two days ago in St. Louis, MO, where six other cattle escaped from a packing plant, remaining on the run for hours until they were eventually recaptured. At present, their fate remains uncertain despite the fact that we did, along with fellow rescuer Skylands Animal Sanctuary & Rescue, offer transport and permanent, loving homes. We remain hopeful and continue to monitor the situation.
Frank’s situation was similarly shrouded with uncertainty on this day in 2016, when we awoke to hear news of a bull’s brave dash for freedom. Little did he and we know what more that fateful April Fool’s Day would have in store.
At first, authorities viewed Frank as dangerous, and shot tranquilizer darts into his backside to subdue an animal they believed was a menace to residents. In reality, Frank was not vicious, but terrified. The city is no place for a farm animal, and poor Frank fled to a nearby university campus whose grassy grounds must have seemed familiar in a sea of unfamiliar sights and sounds.
Frank at Cornell University’s Nemo Farm Animal Hospital, where he recovered after his rescue.
Frank’s story attracted sympathizers from across the nation. And thanks to the efforts of compassionate friends — the Animal Care Centers of NYC (ACC), whose staff was instrumental in getting Frank to safety; Farm Sanctuary Board Member Tracey Stewart and her husband Jon, who sprang into action to help this desperate animal in need; and Mike Stura of Skylands, whose efforts were invaluable in helping Frank begin his happy new life — many more began to see Frank and other farm animals like him as someone, not something.
Frank’s story, as told by his friend and co-rescuer Jon Stewart.
Of course, with a powerful underdog story of survival and friends like the Stewarts, it stands to reason that people might view Frank as one of a kind. In reality, though, he is no different from the countless other farm animals who pass through the system unnoticed, invisible, and forgotten. Each of them are unique and special in their own way — the only difference is that Frank was fortunate enough to be able to show the world just that.
Frank in the barn at his new home.
And it’s incredible to see what a difference this past year has made in his life! Now safe and sound at Farm Sanctuary, Frank has truly blossomed.
Here, he has friends (bovine and “humanimal” alike) and spends his days knowing only the love, care, and kindness he deserves.
Cuddling up with buddy Blitzen.
Snow wonder: Frank showing off his winter coat.
Frank at the feeder with his buddy Ari.
From spending time with “best bovine buddies” Nik, Ari, and Chandini to visiting with his humanimal admirers, like sponsor “mom” Mary, Frank’s inspiring transformation from frightened newcomer to beloved friend demonstrates the difference we can all make when we put compassion first.
Frank gets a loving pet from sponsor “mom” Mary.
Frank’s other “parents” were proud to see him on the cover of Farm Sanctuary’s 2017 calendar.
Frank’s clearly learned how to pose.
So today, we celebrate Frank, and the compassionate lives that his own life has inspired. We are so thankful that our supporters were there for Frank when he needed help the most, and we’re excited to see what the future holds for this gentle, loving steer.
Want to help us celebrate Frank’s “rebirthday?” We hope you’ll consider advocating for the release of the six cattle in St. Louis — individuals just like him, who likewise deserve to live out their lives in peace. And hopefully, you’ve already realized the most effective way to take a stand against what Frank’s brothers and sisters did not escape; that you will not purchase or consume animal products, including beef. There are after all, so many meat-free alternatives.
Everything you need to know about the market at the Ancaster Fairgrounds on Saturday! Swipe for info!! . Time, tickets, covid safety measures, curbside pickup, pet-friendly, and even prizes 😍 . #market #indiedyer #livemarket #hamont #hamontmakers @mrktmashup (at Ancaster Fair) https://www.instagram.com/p/CEW2tq8JM_y/?igshid=1744iy2z5e7p6
These beauties sold well today 💚. #handmadeisbest #handmadejewelry #bushed #livemarket #polymerclay #polymerclayearrings #polymerclayjewellery https://www.instagram.com/p/BnMKRYoARYS/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=1mrb1x24pp1p2
Come party with us in Hamburg on the Hello handmade market! We will bringing lots of goods for special market prices!! (Yes, also the bags!) My German is pretty rusty but we can always smile to each other. Looking forward to seeing you there >> next Sunday October 1st Kampnagel Hamburg . PS > Did you spot why we really like this years flyer? #handmademarket @hello_handmade #comeseeus #lovetomeetyou #feltbags #wollfilztasche #bringyoursmile #livemarket #handgemacht #einzelstucke #feltleather #northerndesign #scandinaviandesign #minimalistdesign #dutchdesign (bij Westerman Bags)
It is you we are waiting for to set us free. We are kids and we just want to be free. @andreblunt #andreblunt #documentary #documentaryphotography #bluntxlife #teamcanon #canon #girls #african #kids #happy #free #livemarketphotochallenge #livemarket #photography #nigeria #lagos #man #african #africanchild (at Lagos, Nigeria)
100 000 🙏🏻 Today we served our 100 000 box at our liberty village location. We are grateful for all your continued support and love. Let's keep eating healthy, organic food 💯♨️ #organic #vegan #plantbased #livemarket #live #rawvegan #fastfood #healthyeating #healthyliving #torontoeats #torontodelivery #libertyvillage #toronto 📷 by @tylerbteal 💚
