Visitor information
Before You Visit
Quick answers—especially if you were bracing for the wurst. For directions and hours, use Visit Us. For anything not listed here, use Link Up.
- Question 1: Do I need a reservation?
- Sanctuary visits and guided time with the herd require a booked slot. The café, farm store, and Event Lawn are open to walk-in visitors during operating hours unless a private event closes a section—signs post that at the gate.
- Question 2: Are children welcome?
- Yes. Children must stay with an adult at all times around the dogs. Strollers are fine on paved paths; the barn has a short set of steps at one entrance with a ramp at the other.
- Question 3: Are outside dogs allowed?
- Personal dogs are not allowed on the sanctuary paths. They may wait in your vehicle or use the designated relief area near the lower parking lot on leash. Service animals are accommodated under ADA guidelines—tell staff at check-in.
- Question 4: Is the café open in bad weather?
- Yes. If power is out we serve cold drinks and pre-made items only until power returns. Outdoor seating closes in lightning; indoor seating stays open within capacity.
- Question 5: Where do I park?
- Use the main gravel lot. Oversized vehicles use the lower lot. See Visit Us for detail.
- Question 6: Can I shop without booking a visit?
- Yes. The farm store and café are open during farm hours without a sanctuary reservation.
- Question 7: Is the farm open year-round?
- We are closed Tuesday and Wednesday every week for maintenance and rest for the dogs. We close additional days around major holidays—those dates go on the website and the entrance sign two weeks ahead.
- Question 8: What should I wear?
- Closed shoes, layers, and clothing you do not mind getting dusty. The barn floor is swept daily but not spotless.
- Question 9: I saw something online about the dogs and the sausage. What's the truth?
- The dogs here are sanctuary residents, not ingredients. Don't believe us? Learn How the sausage gets made.