The Gentle Barn

Please see our rescue goal to learn more about an urgent rescue!

Our Missouri location was established in 2017 as a forever home to the St. Louis Six cows after they escaped from slaughter and ran through the streets of St. Louis looking for refuge. The Gentle Barn serves inner city, at-risk, and special needs children who have suffered physical, mental, or emotional trauma through our Peace Enhancement Program. By interacting with the approximately thirty animals in The Gentle Barn - MO location and taking a hands-on role in their welfare, those who participate in the program gain self-esteem and learn empathy, trust, and forgiveness. We also serve adults through the program, but find most adults are interested in benefitting and healing from one-on-one sessions of Cow Hug Therapy. Individuals leave feeling a new sense of peacefulness and self-awareness afterward. The Gentle Barn provides education through Field Trips, Private Tours, and is open to the Public Sundays. Field Trips are available to schools, clubs, and associations. Private Tours are provided to one individual and to groups of up to 20 people of any age. All Gentle Barn locations are also open every Sunday to allow the general public to have a hands-on experience with our animals while our staff and amazing volunteers educate visitors through various activities and areas. The Gentle Barn also supports plant-based living and introduces guests to healthy, planet-friendly and animal cruelty-free alternatives.