Stump Hill Farm’s mission and effort to help animals, both domestic and exotic, is the sort of thing that renews the belief that there is still good left in the world. For 28 years, this Massillon farm and sanctuary has been rescuing and nurturing animals in need, and educating people on rare and endangered species with the goal of raising awareness and support of their work. This is a vocation that requires a level of selflessness that few people possess; not just anyone would return their Christmas presents and sell their car to save a chimp. That’s exactly what Stump Hill Farm owner and operator Cyndi Huntsman did in 1995, and she and her staff continue to devote themselves to this cause every day at the farm. The primate that was taken in by Huntsman at great personal sacrifice – to the tune of $10,000 – is Tootie, a 26-year-old chimpanzee with a nightmarish past. After living with an unfit trainer who pulled his teeth due to fear and ignorance, followed by a personal breeder who allowed him to be attacked by other chimps, Tootie was severely damaged. Animals, especially primates, are exceedingly sensitive and intelligent, and hold on to memories of past experiences. Seventeen years later, Tootie still has his quirks and triggers, but he has opened up and learned to love the people who care for him. His life now revolves around delights such as eating popsicles, grooming his human friends, and watching his television! Tootie’s story is just one example of the painful journeys that many of these animals undergo before their fortunate arrival at Stump Hill Farm. More than 250 animals call Stump Hill Farm home, including tigers, kangaroos, baboons, chimpanzees, pythons, camels, alligators, foxes and eagles, just to name a few. The vast majority of residents have been abused or neglected in some way and were luckier than the thousands of others that die each year after landing in one horrific situation after another – namely, disreputable wild-animal shows, uneducated private “collectors,” and medicalresearch facilities. Many of these animals die in misery, and those who are rescued often need years of rehabilitation, gentle care and patience to regain their trust in anyone. Stump Hill Farm also takes in domestic animals; staff member Jessica Kribbs told me that there is currently a domestic cat named Batman that is enamored with one of the baby tigers. It doesn’t get much cuter than that … except maybe the duck that likes to cuddle with one of the pygmy goats. A typical day at Stump Hill Farm consists of animal-care chores such as feeding and cleaning, in addition to scheduled public tours and running other special events. The farm is propelled by the efforts of six staff members and a dozen or so volunteers, who work to give the 250 animals the life that they have always deserved – in fact, they are quite spoiled, Kribbs attested. In talking to the staff at Stump Hill Farm, it is evident that their dedication and commitment to caring for the animals, as well as educating people about them, is perpetually renewed – their attitude is nothing but positive, despite the cruelty that they see. Many of the farm’s tenants will spend the rest of their lives at Stump Hill, which can mean 10-20 years or more of care. The farm is continually appreciative of visitors and donations to support their cause and spread the word of their preservation efforts. The bizarre news story of an exotic-pet owner in Zanesville who set his charges free before killing himself last year has prompted some legislation in Ohio that could threaten Stump Hill Farm’s ability to rescue exotic animals. Cyndi Huntsman has been an active voice in scrutinizing S.B. 310 and working toward a better solution that would not hinder the work of Stump Hill and other credible organizations like it. This is another area in which the farm needs support: Do some research, and participate in the conversation. Visit Stump Hill Farm and see their dedication in action. Tours are done daily (weather permitting) by appointment only. Call 330-833-8402 or visit www.stumphillfarm.com for more info.