On this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long visited Kitzman’s Farm Sanctuary and spoke with founder Tracy Kitzman and farm manager Cat Austin about the sanctuary’s mission, daily operations, and plans for the future.
Located in rural Whiteside County, Kitzman’s Farm Sanctuary serves as a refuge for animals that often have nowhere else to go. While many animal rescues focus on cats and dogs, the sanctuary specializes in caring for farm animals, including goats, donkeys, pigs, cows, chickens, ducks, and other livestock. New arrivals are expected soon, including a pair of emus that will further expand the sanctuary’s diverse animal population.
Kitzman said the sanctuary grew from her desire to combine her passion for education, animals, and community service. Inspired by her grandmother’s decades of volunteer work with the Dixon Food Pantry, Kitzman envisioned creating a place where people could learn about animal care while supporting a meaningful cause.
Today, that vision has expanded into a nonprofit organization that welcomes visitors, volunteer groups, and community organizations. The sanctuary has hosted Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, Kreider Services participants, and students involved in the Sauk Impact program.
The organization is now looking toward future growth. Kitzman hopes to acquire additional land and eventually build an educational facility that could host field trips, classes, community programs, and agricultural education opportunities.
The sanctuary’s rapid growth led Kitzman to hire Austin as a full-time farm manager. Together, the pair oversee the daily care of dozens of animals, many of whom require specialized attention.
A typical day begins early and includes feeding, cleaning, administering medications, monitoring health conditions, and maintaining animal enclosures. Many of the sanctuary’s residents are elderly animals or animals with chronic medical conditions requiring ongoing treatment. Some need special diets, while others require regular veterinary care, hoof maintenance, arthritis management, or other accommodations.
Austin also assists with wildlife rehabilitation efforts, including caring for orphaned raccoons, in addition to her responsibilities at the sanctuary.
The work is extensive, but both women emphasize that animal welfare remains their highest priority.
The sanctuary’s commitment extends beyond basic care. Animals that arrive at Kitzman’s Farm Sanctuary are given a permanent home and remain under the sanctuary’s care for the rest of their lives.
Several of the animals have become favorites among staff and visitors. One longtime resident is Bacon, a pot-bellied pig surrendered after her owners sold their home. Another is Callie, a dog rescued from a neglect situation as a puppy who ultimately formed such a strong bond with Austin that she became part of her family while continuing to serve as one of the farm’s unofficial guardians.
The sanctuary also embraces sustainability whenever possible. Manure is used in gardens, renewable energy pellets help heat the greenhouse, and beekeeping operations provide pollination for fruit trees while generating honey that helps support the nonprofit’s mission.
Maintaining such a large operation comes with significant expenses. Feed, veterinary care, medications, facility maintenance, and infrastructure improvements all require ongoing financial support.
Community donations play a major role in helping the sanctuary continue its work. Financial contributions can be made through the organization’s website, while physical donations such as blankets, towels, comforters, produce, and other supplies are welcomed throughout the year.
Kitzman said community support has been overwhelming, with residents consistently stepping forward to donate supplies, volunteer their time, and support the sanctuary’s mission.
Visitors interested in experiencing the sanctuary firsthand can participate in scheduled tours that offer an up-close look at the animals and an opportunity to learn about their stories and rehabilitation journeys.
As Kitzman’s Farm Sanctuary looks toward future expansion, its mission remains focused on providing rescued animals with safety, comfort, and lifelong care while strengthening connections throughout the community.
For Kitzman and Austin, every animal represents an opportunity to provide a second chance — and every visitor helps ensure those opportunities continue for years to come.
For more information, visit their website, kitzmansfarmsanctuary.com.
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