FAQS
Your Most Asked Questions
How much does it cost to come for a tour / visit?
What is a Farm Sanctuary
The easiest way to explain it is that we are like an animal shelter, but instead of dogs and cats, we take in traditionally farmed animals. Especially those who have been orphaned, abandoned, neglected, or abused. Cattle, horses, pigs, goats, sheep, chickens, turkeys, and ducks are just some of the species we care for. Whereas rescue organizations have adoption programs to find permanent homes for the animals they help, sanctuaries are that permanent home. Everyone that comes to our farm stays for the rest of their natural life. We provide food, shelter, medical care, enrichment, socialization and most importantly, love. Most farmed animals are viewed as commodities, and treated as such. Here they are members of our 'farmily', and always shown respect and compassion.
Are you a Petting Zoo?
Yes and no. In the sense that we are open to the public for visits, and we are a farm where many of the animals love people and enjoy hugs and scratches, yes. What sets us apart is that we don't breed animals, we don't close our gates in the Fall, and we educate our visitors about our animals, their unique rescue stories, and how to interact with them. The mental, physical and emotional well-being of our resident animals is our top priority. They interact with people by choice; and are not bribed with food or forced to be in close contact with humans.
Why can't we pet the chickens?
PUBLIC NOTICE RE: OUR POULTRY FLOCK
In June of 2019, some of our chickens fell ill with ILT, a contagious poultry virus. This virus does NOT pose any risk to humans or pets; only four species of poultry (chickens, turkeys, pheasants and guineas). Almost all our hens fully recovered from the infection, but some may still carry it, so all of our poultry was placed under lifelong quarantine by the Chief Veterinary Office of Manitoba. The other option was to have every single bird euthanized, healthy or sick, which is not a decision we could have lived with. We promise every animal that comes here that we will care for them to the best of our ability, for the rest of their natural life, unless their health/quality of life is suffering too greatly.
The Manitoba’s Chief Veterinary Office’s official recommendation is that any individuals (or their immediate family) who work with, own or care for poultry should not visit our farm. However, it is up to the individual to decide that for themselves. For more information regarding this quarantine, please contact the CVO at chiefveterinaryoffice@gov.mb.ca or (204) 945-7684. Please also feel free to contact us directly at (204) 381-7766, or email kismetcreekfarm@outlook.com, if you have any questions about our biosecurity protocols, safety measures, or the health of our animals.