The Cows
Meet Gertie (Holstein)
Gertie is a spirited Holstein calf who was abandoned and in need of a safe, loving home. We were lucky enough to have someone in the community reach out to see if we could take her, and the answer was a resounding yes! We had been hoping to find a friend for our beautiful 6-year-old Jersey boy, Elmer, and Gertie turned out to be the perfect match.
From the moment she arrived, Gertie’s big personality has shone through. She’s full of spunk, with hind legs that love to flail behind her as she runs with the energy of a wild mustang. Beneath all that playful spirit, she has the sweetest, most affectionate heart — always ready for cuddles and love.
Please consider adopting Gertie through a monthly sponsorship to help support her care. She’s truly one of a kind, and we’re so grateful she’s part of our family.
*See below for sponsorship details
Every cow has their own unique qualities, and Gertie is no different. She is a joy and contribute something special to the sanctuary’s family. Her personality shines through, making the sanctuary a truly magical place filled with love, laughter, and the joy of all the incredible animals.
Sponsoring one of our animals is a wonderful way to make a direct impact on their well-being and provide them with the care they need to thrive. Your sponsorship helps cover the costs of food, veterinary care, enrichment activities, and more, ensuring each animal has a happy, healthy life in a safe and loving environment.
* What's Included in Your Sponsorship:
A personalized certificate of sponsorship featuring Gertie’s adorable photo.
Regular updates on Gertie’s progress, including photos and stories from her daily life.
The knowledge that you're making a real difference in Gertie’s world, helping her live the peaceful, joyful life she deserves.
"Swag Bag" contains the following items with your monthly sponsorship:
$20 includes a Sticker, Magnet, Button & Soap.
$40 includes everything listed above PLUS a candle.
$50 or more includes everything listed above, PLUS
a pass for 1 class per month (for 1 year)
a tour of the sanctuary (up to four people), including a plant-based lunch!
Meet Elliot (Holstein)
Elliot, a Holstein calf from the dairy industry, arrived at Jolene's Retreat when he was just four months old. Like most dairy calves, he was bottle-fed from birth and missed out on the vital colostrum, comfort, and bond that every baby deserves from their mother.
Although shy and tentative when he first arrived, Elliot and Gertie were bonded within an hour. Gentle, curious soul with the biggest, most expressive eyes that can melt your heart in an instant, he spends his days watching everything Gertie does, following her throughout the pasture and learning from her every move. When Gertie takes off running, Elliot is right behind her, racing from the top of the pasture to the bottom and back again.
One of his favorite places is the small shed. There, Elliot can curl up beside Gertie, enjoying her warmth, comfort, and love.
Watching Elliot discover friendship, safety, and the simple joys of being a calf reminds us why sanctuary matters. Every animal deserves the chance to be loved, protected, and free to just be themselves.
*See below for sponsorship details
Meet Jackson (Hereford Mix)
Jackson was born on September 7, 2025, on a cattle ranch in Santa Cruz. Like so many cattle raised for beef, he was destined for the slaughterhouse at approximately 18 months until a Good Samaritan reached out to see if Jolene's Retreat could give him a different future.
Jackson arrived at the sanctuary on July 28, 2026, where he joined our resident cow herd and began a life of love, safety, and freedom. He is the sweetest boy with the most beautiful eyelashes! He has a calm, relaxed way about him and enjoys scratches under his chin. He also loves to chat with his new cow friends.
We're so grateful to welcome Jackson to the Jolene's Retreat family, where he will be living his best life surrounded by all the love & happiness he deserves.
*See below for sponsorship details