Dr. Rob Teti discusses the plight of farmed animals with residents of a local retirement community in southeastern Pennsylvania

On April 2nd, 2007 Dr. Rob Teti was invited to present the story of Chenoa Manor to residents of Kendal at Longwood, a retirement community in Kennett Square, PA.  To the delight of the audience, Dr. Teti brought with him two residents:  Isaac, a stately sulcata tortoise;  and Phillip, a cuddly angora bunny.

The origins of Chenoa Manor can be traced to Stillwater, Oklahoma when Rob was still in veterinary school at Oklahoma State University.  He started to care for needy animals in his rental home until, upon graduation, he led a caravan of humans and animals to their new home: a farm in Avondale.

Dr. Teti restated the mission of Chenoa Manor:  to provide sanctuary for animals that have been abandoned, neglected or abused. Sadly, these animals come from a variety of sources, the most poignant being the horrifically cruel factory farming and laboratory experimentation facilities.  

There are at least two features which make Chenoa Manor unique.  First, every animal resident of Chenoa Manor has a permanent home. Secondly, Dr. Teti described his long term plan to extend the sanctuary to include children who've suffered neglect and abuse. Currently the youngsters come to Chenoa Manor, often with their therapists, in a day program.  The future vision of Chenoa Manor is to create an on-site residential facility to help promote the bond between animals and humans.

Rob told some delightful stories about the sanctuary residents.  Especially touching was one about Fern, the duck;  Edgar, the goose; and Mabel, the turkey.  Rob's fears that Fern and Edgar might not get along were quickly dispelled when they fell in love at first sight. Eventually the three became friends and barn mates.  

One night, Rob heard a tapping on the glass and discovered Mabel signaling alarm.  He rushed to the barn, remembering that he'd heard a rumor of a red fox in the area.  He found the barn door open, the fox inside, and only Edgar visible.  Fearing the worst, Dr. Teti searched for Fern, only to find her crouched under the outstretched wings of Edgar, her hero.

In a world with too much suffering and violence, Chenoa Manor is an oasis of love, peace and healing

(As described by Kendal resident Christa Vanderbilt)

Posted: 6/10/2007