In a corner of the Nevada desert, far from urban hustle, young Cuban Yaileny Selema has established a sanctuary where forgotten animals have a second chance: donkeys, horses, pigs, goats, ducks, and even turtles find refuge, medical care, and, above all, a dignified life.
“ We are a young couple from Cuba dedicated to saving animals,” says the founder of the Second Chance Farm shelter, a completely self-funded space run with love, effort, and the support of a loyal community that follows them on social media.
On social media platforms, he/she has shared stories of rescues, the daily progress of the animals' recovery, and every miracle achieved against adversity.
The sanctuary does not sell animals or make a profit, she clarifies: “All the ones you see here have been adopted or rescued. They are not used for food or any economic purpose. They are here because they were abused, abandoned, or have severe medical issues.”
Stories like that of Alfredito, a little donkey who was rescued at just two days old from a slaughterhouse, capture the essence of the project.
Alfredito fell ill after his first adoption and returned gravely to the sanctuary, where he was hospitalized for 13 days, received two plasma transfusions, and managed to survive.
Today, he lives happily in the shelter and has become one of the favorites among his followers.
Others like Oscar, a pet pig whose owners passed away, and Diego, found on the streets of Las Vegas, also found a new life in this space.
Sometimes, rescued animals are given up for free adoption, such as the 11 donkeys saved from the slaughterhouse in an operation that involved driving for seven hours under tension and fear. All were relocated to responsible homes.
“I have been doing this charitable work for eight years. I have only been on social media for two. I am a veterinary nurse, and that helps me assist little animals with health issues,” explains the rescuer, who also works full-time, along with her partner, to support the sanctuary.
Despite the economic challenges and physical toll, the project remains alive thanks to an active community that supports it with donations and shares every rescue.
"We have never gained anything from this. It costs us time, money, and energy, but we do it out of love," he states.
The sanctuary has also placed horses, goats, dogs, and cats for adoption, although many animals are permanent residents due to their advanced age, chronic illnesses, or behavioral issues.
Among them, a 29-year-old blind pony, a horse with arthritis, and several animals with ongoing medical needs.
"It is difficult to find people who give so much without receiving anything in return. But they exist," says the young Cuban in one of the videos posted on social media.
And she proves it every day, with every life she rescues from oblivion, with every being she saves from the slaughterhouse, from abandonment, or from pain. From that piece of land in Nevada, this Cuban not only rescues animals: she rescues humanity.
The commitment of Cubans in exile to animal protection is reflected in concrete and heartfelt actions. A couple of young Cubans managed to bring their dog from Cuba to the United States after two years of struggle, symbolizing the importance of not leaving loved ones behind, even when they cannot speak for themselves.
Respect for animal life is also reflected in small gestures with a significant impact. A Cuban inspired an American woman to help a stray dog after sharing her experience of empathy and care, demonstrating how values of compassion can cross borders and spark good actions.
Stories like that of a Cuban who adopted a dog in the United States and ended up considering it part of his family reveal how the bond between humans and animals transcends migratory and cultural barriers. Love and responsibility towards animals do not fade with distance; on the contrary, they are strengthened in environments where they can exercise that protection more freely.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Animal Sanctuary in Nevada and Its Impact
What is the Second Chance Farm sanctuary in Nevada?
The Second Chance Farm sanctuary is a refuge for forgotten and abused animals, run by a young Cuban and her partner in Nevada. The sanctuary provides shelter and medical care for a variety of animals that have been abused or abandoned, including donkeys, horses, pigs, and turtles.
How is the Second Chance Farm sanctuary funded?
The Second Chance Farm sanctuary is a completely self-funded project by its founders and is supported by an active community that contributes with donations. The effort and love of its managers, along with the help of followers on social media, keep the refuge running.
What rescue stories have stood out at Second Chance Farm?
Among the highlighted stories is that of Alfredito, a little donkey rescued from a slaughterhouse just two days after he was born. After falling severely ill, he received treatment at the sanctuary and managed to survive. He is now a favorite among the followers of the refuge. Other animals have also been rescued, such as Oscar, a pet pig, and Diego, who was found on the streets of Las Vegas.
What is the objective of the Second Chance Farm sanctuary?
The goal of the Second Chance Farm sanctuary is to provide a second chance to forgotten and mistreated animals, offering them a safe environment where they can live with dignity. It does not sell animals or seek to make a profit, focusing its efforts on the welfare and rehabilitation of rescued animals.
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