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Wishing Well Sanctuary welcoming visitors again (8 photos)

Each animal that comes to the farm has a story,' says sanctuary owner, adding facility 'is a perfect sport for family therapy'

Guests can now take a guided tour and visit with farm animals at the Wishing Well Sanctuary at 2710 10th Line in Bradford until the end of October.

Owner Brenda Bronfman has reopened the sanctuary and invites guests to come meet her animal-family where they can feed and interact with the animals while learning more about the centre’s day-to-day operations.

The 51-acre sanctuary (which opened in 2011) has 41 animals including pot belly pigs, goats, cows and steers, a rooster, and sheep, all of which were rescued from slaughterhouses or the OSPCA.

“Each animal that comes to the farm has a story,” says Bronfman. “Some animals come to us with emotional problems from trauma or abuse. It takes time but we help them get integrated and back on their feet (or hooves).”

Bronfman has always had a passion for animals and was a volunteer with the Humane Society for many years. She grew up with dogs and felt an emotional connection to animals from a very young age.

“Animals need a voice, too,” said Bronfman. “Their emotional well-being is so important.”

Bronfman’s goal at the sanctuary is to offer therapeutic programs to help people make better choices in life and include team building sessions, compassion-fatigue workshops, yoga with sheep, and is also planning to build a “labyrinth” on the property and incorporate nature walks.

“This is a perfect spot for family therapy,” suggests Bronfman. “I want to offer family building workshops and help those dealing with anxiety and depression.”

The schedule for upcoming tours is from 1 to 3 p.m. on the following dates: Aug. 9 and 22, Sept. 6 and 19, Oct. 4 and 17

Cost to visit the sanctuary is $20 a person or $75 for a family of four and includes a vegan barbecue serving veggie burgers and drinks after the tour (children aged under three are free).

Special private tours for birthdays or special occasions are also available for $250 up to 10 people, and an additional $25 per person thereafter.

To reserve your spot, simply etransfer to [email protected] and indicate the number of people in your group. A reminder to wear closed-toe shoes is also recommended and tours go on rain or shine.

The centre is currently looking for more volunteers, therapists, and gardeners, and inquiries can be sent via email to Bronfman. Sponsorship packages are also available and encouraged to help keep the centre running.

Details about an upcoming Halloween event will be announced later this summer.