From Henry the Bull to Känguruhof Sanctuary

This collaboration article was created together with the featured organization

Sometimes, a big change begins with a single encounter. For Stefan, the founder of Känguruhof in eastern Switzerland, that encounter came in the form of a massive, gentle bull named Henry.

About five years ago, Stefan reached a point familiar to many farmers: Henry had reached his slaughter weight. On an ordinary farm, that would have been the end of his story. But here, things took a different turn.

Henry wasn’t just another animal in the herd — he had become a friend. Whenever Stefan walked across the farm, Henry would come up to him, curious and happy for his company. He loved being petted, and the two would even go for walks together. Henry once even let Stefan ride on his back. That bond made Stefan question everything he thought he knew about livestock farming.

“I just couldn’t bring myself to slaughter him,” Stefan says today. That moment changed everything. Instead of sending Henry to the slaughterhouse, he decided to take a new path — one that made space for compassion, respect, and responsibility toward all living beings. Step by step, his traditional farm became a sanctuary: the Känguruhof.

🦘 Why “Känguruhof”?

The name isn’t just a marketing trick — seven real kangaroos live on the farm, including a rare albino kangaroo that always catches visitors’ eyes. They hop around a large field next to the barns and are beloved by everyone who visits. They also stand for the farm’s new philosophy: openness, curiosity, and the joy of unexpected encounters.

🐓🦢🐖 Frau Holle, Kasimir & Wilhelmine

Visitors quickly notice that every animal at Känguruhof has its own story — and often its own special role.

Take Frau Holle, a proud white goose who acts as the unofficial guardian of the duck family. When a fox approaches, she puffs up, hisses, and stands protectively in front of the ducklings. Watching her defend them so fiercely shows how much the animals here are seen as individuals with personality and will.

Then there are the three ostriches: two females and a smaller male. Their size difference doesn’t diminish their charm — they’re friendly, playful, and curious, always peering at visitors with their big eyes. We learned that ostriches swallow small stones to help them digest their food. They also have a unique inner eyelid, much like cats, that protects and moistens their eyes.

And then the pigs: Kasimir, a boar with black, white, and brown patches, is full of character. Next to him lives Wilhelmine — the largest pig we’ve ever seen. Her size rivals that of a calf, and her eyes seem almost human, deep and expressive. Both enjoy lazy days on the farm, wallowing, sunbathing, and watching whoever happens to come by.

Of course, there are also 17 cows roaming freely across the pastures by day. Henry — the bull who started it all — is part of this group.

🐷🐓 A Home for Animals — Supported by the Community

Today, Känguruhof is home to many animals of different species. Around 40% already have sponsors who contribute monthly donations to cover food, care, and veterinary costs. The goal is for every animal to have its own sponsor one day. Right now, sponsorships for the ostriches are especially needed. A full sponsorship costs 150 CHF per month, but smaller contributions (from 20 CHF) also help a lot. Sponsors are warmly invited to visit their animals regularly and build personal bonds.

The full price list and sponsorship information can be found here: Känguruhof – Animals – Sponsorships (German)

🌱 More Than Animals: Permaculture, Vegetables, and Education

The farm is much more than a refuge for animals. Stefan and his team have embraced the idea of permaculture. Alongside the animals, a flourishing vegetable garden and small farm shop provide fresh produce like apple juice, apples, and even homemade pasta made from their own grains.

Education is another key part of their mission. Through school visits and guided tours, they teach children and young people about compassion and respectful coexistence with animals.

📅 Events, Newsletter & Community

Känguruhof runs not only on sponsorships but also through events and gatherings. Anyone interested can sign up for the farm’s newsletter to stay informed. Upcoming events are also announced on their social media channels. You can even organize a private event there — from family celebrations to company outings. A visit to Känguruhof is always something special for both kids and adults.

❤️ Join the Känguruhof Community

Känguruhof beautifully shows how one personal decision can grow into a place of transformation. Stefan’s story with Henry continues to evolve — with every new animal, every sponsor, and every person who becomes involved.

If you’d like to be part of this story, visit kaenguruhof.ch, become a sponsor, or come by for a visit. Every franc, every helping hand, and every kind heart makes a difference — for a new way of farming.

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