Atlasta Home Sanctuary
Chris:
We just wanted to thank you again for taking us on a tour of ATLASTA HOME SANCTUARY on Saturday, June 21, 2008. Sean and I really enjoyed our visit and were so impressed with the whole place. What a wonderful haven for animals, especially pigs of all kind, to live out their lives. We could not believe the variety of animals (pigs, dogs, horses, a cow, etc.) and the number of animals that live here and how well they all co-mingle with one another, so laid back and content. It was obvious to us that these animals are happy and well cared for.
As for the Sanctuary, it was amazingly clean and well kept. I am very sensitive to odors and there was not a strong smell whatsoever, like some might expect with so many animals living here. I could have stayed there all day playing with them! The animals that call this wonderful sanctuary "home" have everything they could possibly want or need! They have companionship with many of their same kind, as well as a variety of other animals. It was interesting hearing the stories about them and how the different ones have bonded, such as the cow and one particular dog. When we walked into the large barn, there were animals everywhere resting comfortably in the soft hay. They have plenty of shelter including cozy structures inside and outside the barn to stretch out in for comfort and privacy if they need it! They have so much space to roam with lots of shade trees. We thought it was great that they have a choice of resting in a private spot outside under a tree or in one of the many outdoor shelters, or in the barn with a large group! There are troughs of water everywhere with pigs cooling themselves, not to mention the large ponds for wallowing or swimming. They are most definitely well fed, well cared for, and all appeared to not have a worry in the world!
You really have created a marvelous haven at ATLASTA HOME SANCTUARY for these animals and the best part is that this is a forever home for them in which they can live in peace with their own kind. What a better world this would be if there were more people like you who care so much that you are willing to sacrifice your own needs for the needs of those who have no voice, such as these precious animals.
Thank you for being who you are and doing what you do.
Sean and Lesta Maijala
TIPPY TOES
I became the "mom" to a 5-6 week old feral/domestic pig in July, 2007. Tippy Toes was a terrific little pig, but she didn’t stay little for long. At the age of 8 months she weighed about 150 lbs. She was leash trained and house-broken and she loved to be with her people, but our yard wasn’t fenced and it wasn’t fair to her to keep her indoors. After a lot of searching I finally found Chris at Atlastahome Sanctuary. Most sanctuaries won’t take in feral pigs. I wanted to make sure Tippy was going to a good home so Chris encouraged me to come visit before we made our decision. I was very impressed with the sanctuary from the beginning. There were lots of animals of all breeds and sizes all roaming around together! No cages anywhere! There are several fenced areas for pigs of different needs. The "assisted living" area is for the older pigs, there’s another area for the babies and youngsters. Then, there’s a huge area for all the other pigs. All of the animals get along well together; dogs, cows, pigs, chickens, ducks and geese all mingling together! Chris is like Dr Doolittle! She knows every animal by name, their background and they come when called. She is wonderful with the animals. Chris is a true "animal whisperer", especially with the pigs. I knew at once that I had found the perfect home for my pig, Tippy. Chris and Atlastahome Sanctuary are the best! Tippy would have lots of room to roam and lots of other friends. Atlastahome Sanctuary is a piggy heaven on earth! Thank you, Chris!
Dianne W
Message From: Jeff Calloway December 4, 2008
I am still overwhemed of the care and love these animals receive. Chris you are a living angle. Our pigs could not make the move to the new home being built and we were at a lost what to do with our four legged family members. Chris we can't thank you enough and we will spread the news of your facility and give you all the support that we can. These animals are so lucky to have your love, care, and devotion. Can't wait to visit again .
Message From: Michael & Dale Kelly September 27, 2008
Chris, You are very special person to take on the task of caring for so many beautiful animals like the pigs. Being the owner of a Pot Bellied Pig at one time, people don't understand that each pig has it's own special personalty and has feelings just like people. You took in our baby, Pasqali, when we had no other place to turn to. She was being keep indoors all day long while we worked and then at night also. She was not a happy pig. Finding you and you taking her in was the best thing for her life. She is now as happy as a pupply with two peters. May God Bless you and all you do for the animals that you care for. Please donate any time that you can. The cost for Chris and her husband, Robert is a lot for the month. All donations can help to offset the cost of care for all the gang at Atlastahome Sanctuary. Thanks Michael
Message From: Matt Gurecky September 1, 2008
Dear Christine: Words cannot begin to express the gratitude I feel for you and the "Heaven" you have created for all of your beautiful animals. Our prayers were answered when you agreed to accept Buddy and Chico into your sanctuary. My great aunt who passed away and her daughter who had to be placed in a nursing home, pleaded with us to find their two dogs a home when they were no longer able to care for them. And AT LAST, we did! Thank you for graciously showing us around the ATLASTAHOME property to see all breeds of pigs, dogs, ducks, geese, chickens, cows, goats and horses coexist with one another in perfect harmony. If only people could learn this simple lesson, the world would be a better place. You also enlightened us about how you teach youth groups and (adults alike) to be responsible individuals when it comes to an animal's welfare. The stories behind the rescues of each of the animals were heartbreaking, but ultimately uplifting. I also love the fact that every animal has a name...and not one of them is forgotten. The 175 acres on which the animals have to roam is absolutely beautiful. Away from the city, cars and other hazards that may threaten the life of the animals, they can now live out their lives without worry or struggle I only wish there were more facilities such as yours near to where I live and across the nation as well. Anyone should be proud to have you as their neighbor. (smile) I applaud your diligence and dedication to such a worthy cause. Heaven holds a special place for those who tend to God's creatures. Until then, we should all be grateful for ATLASTAHOME Sanctuary! Sincerely, Matt Gurecky
Message From: Margaret September 1, 2008
We are simply amazed at the generosity Chris demonstrates as she works to provide a loving home for the many animals at her sanctuary. Our family thoroughly enjoyed our visit with Chris and Robert and it made our hearts sing to know that there are still people in this world who exemplify what it means to care for God's creatures here on earth. She has created an immaculately clean and comfortable haven for a variety of animals who all exist in a heaven-like Utopia of her making. Chris, I hope you know we are grateful beyond words for your important work and the special gifts of love you share.
Message From: Greg and Apryl Whitten August 18, 2008
My husband and I visited your sanctuary on Sunday, August 17th, 2008, to bring you a baby feral pig that had been caught by our local animal control. When we arrived we were simply amazed at what a pig utopia your place is. Every animal there is living life on their terms, no cages, no walls. Some were lounging in the barn, some under trees, others wallering in the pond, and others following us around for attention. They all know their names and come running when called. I have never been up this close to these creatures before and I was just amazed by them. What sweet, affectionate beings. And the other animals that live there were just so hospitable as well. A group of dogs escorted us from location to location to visit with the pigs and ducks wandered around, everyone happy, healthy and living in harmony. Thank you so much for taking in this baby that we brought to you.She could not have found a better, more loving place to grow up.
Message From: Diana July 28, 2008
Thank God for people like you The work you do means soooo much.
Message From: Jan & C.J. Garner July 23, 2008
Chris , thanks for the great time July 4th with you and your extended family. They are great and seem to be so content .It amazed me to see them mix as they did .Loved the way they followed you around like you are their momma. And were so at ease being around anybody.
Message From: Jacob July 22, 2008
Thanks for all the hard work that you and Robert have done, its unbeleiveable that there are people like ya'll that will take their time out of their personal life to take care of these animals..I just wanted to say thank you for taking care of tippy and am really blessed that we found a place for her to live with other pigs and enjoy her life with others.....thank you so much....Jacob
Message From: Grace July 19, 2008
The animals are great and really cute thanks for taking them all in.
Message From: Terry DeGaw July 4, 2008
Chris, thanks for taking in little Willbur, who won't stay that way for long. I may be the first to sign your guestbook but I'm sure I won't be the last. I have enjoyed working with you through the years and am sure we will be doing so for many years to come. Good job. Your site is really coming along and I'm so proud of you. Keep up the good work.