27: Tracy Vogt | Farm Animal Rescue Sanctuary

A farm animal rescue sanctuary can change countless lives—both animal and human. In Episode 27, Lindsay talks with Tracy Vogt about founding and running her sanctuary, the role compassion plays in healing, and how rescue work builds community and resilience. Tracy’s story is a moving reminder of the impact one person can make.

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Saving Lives and Advocating for a Better World

We are focused on rescuing farm animals, and also educating the public on the issues they face. They can combat climate change, support a plant-based diet, and show kindness to animals. Share on X

Among the vineyards of wine country, near the small town of Sonoma, California, you’ll find a 32-acre nonprofit dedicated to saving lives.

Charlie’s Acres Farm Animal Sanctuary, founded by my dear friend Tracy Vogt in 2016, provides a safe haven for about 150 animals. This nonprofit cares for abused, homeless, and rescued farm animals. Through education, Tracy is changing the way society views farm animals.

She is building a physical and virtual community around an aligned mission: kindness and compassion.

Show kindness. Feel empathy. Practice compassion.

In a system that exploits billions of animals, Tracy stands out as a powerful advocate.

She believes farm animals are no different from pets. Partnering with groups like Mercy for Animals and other local organizations, she spreads awareness and builds a strong support network.

A Life of Compassion

Tracy grew up in rural Northern California and has loved animals her entire life. After watching Babe—the story of an orphaned pig—she stopped eating pork. Over time, she transitioned to a fully plant-based diet.

Later, she adopted Charlie, a little overlooked Chihuahua in a shelter. That bond set her on a mission to promote compassionate living.

In 2016, she combined her passion for animal welfare with her nonprofit management experience. She launched Charlie’s Acres to rescue animals and shift public mindsets.

Responding to Crisis with Open Arms

Over the past four years, Tracy has built 11 barns on her farm. She has also taken in more than 70 animals displaced by California wildfires.

She keeps extra space ready, knowing that each fall brings a high risk of new evacuations. Her proactive planning has saved countless lives during crises.

Every Animal Has a Unique Story

Empathy and compassion for animals translate into empathy for humans.

The animals at Charlie’s Acres have survived trauma, yet they still show forgiveness and gratitude toward humans. Their resilience reminds us of the healing power of compassion—for animals and for each other.

Storytelling That Inspires Hope

At Charlie’s Acres, every small victory is a story worth celebrating. Storytelling allows people to empathize with animals and recognize that farm animals are no different from pets at home.

Narratives of resilience and kindness give us hope and build stronger emotional connections to the mission.

Creativity During Crisis: Going Virtual

During the pandemic, Tracy and the team got creative.

From virtual goat yoga to Zoom meeting photobombs, Charlie’s Acres brought joy to online events. Potbellied pigs, horses, ducks, cows, and roosters starred in virtual birthdays, school tours, and family parties—spreading laughter, connection, and awareness.

As of September, they are now starting to offer in-person tours again, with all the preventive and sanitary safety measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Learn more and get involved at www.charliesacres.org.

Key Takeaways:

03:41 – How Tracy started on her journey of compassion, actively rescuing farm animals, and educating the public.

10:36 – Why cuddling with a cow can reduce blood pressure, decrease stress and encourage relaxation.

14:12 – Figure out what your niche is and what your nonprofit is best at: How Charlie’s Acres have weathered the storm during the shelter-in-place by offering a unique experience.

18:34 – Reach out to your network: engaging donors virtually and partnering up with corporations in the new normal.

24:02 – Tracy’s goal of raising awareness and ultimately going out of business.