At New Life Animal Sanctuary in sunny, southern California, rescued survivors of animal research finally find what everyone deserves: comfort, care, and love.
One of those survivors is Harriet, a Yucatan mini-pig who has become both the heart of the sanctuary (and the portrait in its logo).
When Harriet arrived at the sanctuary in March 2022, she carried with her the weight of years spent in a laboratory.
At first, she was shy and unsure of her new surroundings. But it didn’t take long for her true self to shine. By the end of her very first day, Harriet was curled up in the lap of New Life’s founder and Executive Director, Gina Lynn. Harriet even stretched out on top of Gina and fell fast asleep, as if making up for lost time in the kind of safety she had never known before.
Harriet quickly learned what sanctuary life had to offer: freedom, affection, and the chance to be herself. And soon, she helped another pig discover that same peace.
Just weeks after Harriet’s arrival, New Life rescued Lynn, another Yucatan pig from a different lab.
Lynn was terrified. No matter what treats or kindness the team offered, she resisted.
“We spent weeks spoiling Lynn and offering her every goody to try to gain her trust, but she wanted nothing to do with us,” recalled Gina. “When nothing else was working, we decided to introduce Lynn and Harriet. The connection was instant.”
Harriet’s calm presence and open heart reassured Lynn in a way no human could. With Harriet by her side, Lynn began to trust and eventually to thrive.
Today, Harriet and Lynn roam the sanctuary grounds together, rooting in the earth, getting into porcine mischief, snuggling up for naps, and charming everyone they meet.
“Harriet provided Lynn all the reassurance she needed. And Lynn became a different pig, accepting our love and affection. This is the magic of Harriet!”
—Gina Lynn, Founder & Executive Director, New Life Animal Sanctuary
Harriet isn’t just a survivor. She’s a healer, a teacher, and a reminder of the resilience of animals who endure the cruelties of research.
Rise for Animals is proud to support New Life Animal Sanctuary, where Harriet, Lynn, and so many others finally have the chance to live free, safe, and loved… just as they were always meant.
Your call to action: Harriet and Lynn found freedom at sanctuary, but countless animals are still trapped in labs. Tell Congress to pass The SPARE Act and stop wasting tax dollars on bad science. Let’s give every animal a chance to live free, safe, and loved.
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