VINE Sanctuary in Springfield pioneered a once-rare form of rehabilitation for roosters rescued from cockfighting and other dangerous situations.

Cockfighting is a felony offense in all 50 states and U.S. territories, but illegal fighting rings remain popular regardless.

VINE’s work provided evidence that roosters can be successfully rehabilitated and even adopted into new flocks. Before their work took off, these birds were routinely euthanized.

The nonprofit cares for over 500 animals, including roosters, hens, ducks, turkeys, guinea fowl, cows, sheep, goats, horses, pigeons and emus, and has been based in southern Vermont since 2009.

Catherine Hurley / Vermont Public

VINE is an acronym that stands for “Veganism Is the Next Evolution.”

Cofounder Pattrice Jones' activism starte

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