As the holiday rush began, Jordan Gullotta chose to spend part of her week in a place that brings her calm. At The Gentle Barn — a Tennessee animal sanctuary known for its therapeutic programs — she can groom a cow, stroke a sheep or simply soak in the peaceful atmosphere.
But on this visit, she held something new: a blind turkey. Within moments, the brown-feathered bird named Smudge relaxed in her arms, closed her eyes and drifted off to sleep.
“Oh my goodness, you’re so snuggly,” Gullotta whispered.
While turkeys usually take center stage on Thanksgiving dinner tables, The Gentle Barn founder Ellie Laks says they can also make surprisingly affectionate therapy companions.
“People already know that dogs, cats and horses offer emotional support,” Laks said. “At The Gentle Barn, we ask, ‘Why not turkeys?’”
The idea came years ago when one particularly vocal turkey shadowed Laks around the farm. When she knelt down and invited the bird closer, it became clear the hen simply wanted to be held.
The Tennessee sanctuary is home to about 60 animals rescued from abuse or neglect, many of them older or living with injuries. One turkey receives acupuncture for hip pain, and a goat who lost its back hooves to frostbite now moves with the help of a custom wheelchair.
“We rehabilitate them, give them a safe home, and when they’re ready, we partner with them to help people heal from similar experiences,” Laks explained. “They help people connect to the love and magic animals can offer.”
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Though often dismissed as unintelligent or aloof, turkeys are deeply perceptive and loving, she said — something visitors like Gullotta quickly discover. The Middle Tennessee State University student had come before to visit the cows, her favorites, but hadn’t expected turkey cuddling to be on her agenda.
“The turkeys love in their own way — it’s different, but really special,” she said.
Turkey therapy sessions are offered all year, and The Gentle Barn — which also operates a location in California — hosts a special Thanksgiving event where visitors can feed and pet turkeys as an alternative way to celebrate. Guests can also sponsor rescued turkeys to help support their care.
Source: AP