Magzalea Farm and Sanctuary Gives Second Life to Animals in Need

Nestled in the peaceful town of Fitzwilliam, Magzalea Farm and Sanctuary is a heartwarming haven for animals in need, offering a loving and safe refuge for those who might otherwise face an unfortunate fate. Owned and operated by Mandy and Silas Exel, the sanctuary is the realization of Mandy's lifelong passion for caring for the underdog. A vegetarian who grew up on a farm, Mandy has always felt a deep connection to animals, and through Magzalea, she's able to provide a loving, peaceful final home to those rescued from the brink of euthanasia. With a deep commitment to compassion and care, Mandy and Silas have created a sanctuary where each animal is given a second chance at life, surrounded by love and dignity. "I grew up on a farm and went vegetarian when I was 9 years old. The idea of seeing animals raised for food was something I always struggled with. When I had kids of my own, I wanted to teach them compassion by rescuing and caring for animals, then I dragged my husband into it with me, too," Mandy Exel explained. They started the farm in 2002. The family works with local farmers and networks throughout New England to rescue animals that are unadoptable. Many have owners who are unable to afford their care, whether they are senior animals, handicapped, have long-term medical care needs or they need behavioral rehab. Magzlaea does not adopt out any of their animals, but they do help facilitate rehoming healthy animals. Most of the animals that end up at Magzalea Farm and Sanctuary are residents for the rest of their lives. They are currently home to approximately 200 animals including six dogs, eight feral cats, cows, pigs, alpacas, one llama, donkeys, mules, horses, sheep, goats and they have lots of birds — even an emu. "Greta, our resident emu, she identifies as an alpaca," Mandy Exel laughed. "Everybody is very unique; some are social and then we have others that are special characters that need certain accommodations. We try to provide a safe place for all of the animals in our care," said Exel. Magzalea Farm and Sanctuary is a non-profit and the Exel family also owns Misfit Roots Farm in Fitzwilliam where they grow and make goods to help support the sanctuary. Misfit Roots Farm makes products for themselves and food for the animals and anything left, they sell locally. "I am a crochet addict," Exel exclaimed. They sell lots of crocheted items, starter plants, candles, soaps, deodorant and other body products — a mix-match of things. Their products are available at a farm stand on their 100-acre property, and they are open by appointment. They also sell their items at the Fitzwilliam Farmer's Market and other events in the area. Magzalea Farm and Sanctuary isn't open to the public, but they do guided tours and host visiting days a few times throughout the summer season. If you sign up for their email newsletter, or follow them on Facebook, you can be notified of those days. Though the sanctuary is able to run off of income from Misfit Roots Farm, Excel stressed the current need for donations from the public. "I think the big push right now is that a lot of people need our services, but we are having trouble with fundraising. When times are tough and people are unable to care for, or afford their animals, they are trying to release them to a rescue or a sanctuary and a lot of them are full," said Exel. Without people being generous with donations to these places, the space is limited, and some animals will have to be euthanized. "I urge people to support local shelters, rescues and sanctuaries — it will go a long way." Magzalea has an Amazon and Chewy wish list on their website for anyone interested in purchasing items for the animals. Donations are always welcome, and 100 percent of the donations go to the animals. Magzalea Farm and Sanctuary is located at 218 West Lake Road in Fitzwilliam. For more information visit their website at www.magzaleasanctuary.org or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Magzalea.