Here’s another guest blog post from one of our favorite organizations, Green Chimneys. This one is from Michael Kaufmann, who was kind enough to give some of us from Halo a special tour of the Green Chimneys farm. Michael directs the farm and wildlife center, so is responsible for the welfare of all of GC’s animals. Be sure to see our previous blog posts about GC too!

They came from Germany and Japan, Belgium and Brewster, N.Y., Alberta and Australia. In fact, this year’s Humane Education Conference, co-hosted by Green Chimneys – a non-profit organization that brings together special needs children and animals – and the ASPCA, attracted more than 100 people from 10 countries committed to a single purpose: to improve long-term prospects for animals and their caregivers. Guests, including educators, animal welfare professionals and others interested in the humane-animal bond, heard from animated speakers with impeccable credentials. Presentations ranged from a dynamic demonstration of how to establish a supportive relationship with animals by Linda Tellington-Jones, inspirational founder of The Tellington TTouch, to “Euthanasia from a Veterinarian’s Perspective” by Lila Miller, DVM, ASPCA Vice President of Veterinary Outreach and Veterinary Advisor. Across perspectives, speakers and visitors shared a common desire: to celebrate, embrace and encourage more adults and children to connect with animals.

The staff, students and residents of Green Chimneys are very fortunate since animals are a core part of our everyday life. Our goats, horses, Labrador pups, injured birds, bunnies and sheep are among the 200 animals that frequently become our children’s most valuable co-therapist, teacher and friend. Our children gain self-esteem, learn responsible animal care and become nurturing caretakers concerned about others.

But, be assured, our animals are as well taken care of as our children. Their habitats are kept clean. They are tended to by professional animal experts and loving youngsters. And, like other animal lovers, we provide healthy food. Recently, hundreds of our employees’ pets and area shelters also got a special treat. Halo, Purely for Pets donated cans of its all natural dog food. And, boy, were our pups happy! Colleagues exchanged funny stories about how their dogs looked up “asking for more”. Count a couple dozen of us among Halo’s new loyal customers!!! Visit www.greenchimneys.org