Asher’s Farm Sanctuary was inspired by the late Oscar Hirsch (15.07.1929 - 07.09.2015), whose Hebrew name was "Asher." Oscar and his wife, Elise, lived in Pretoria, South Africa, where they raised their three daughters. Oscar was a renowned architect and developer, but he is also remembered for his deep compassion for animals.
Oscar was a vegetarian for over 60 years, and later, a vegan. He dedicated much of his life to advocating for cruelty-free living, not only for the sake of animals but also for the health and well-being of humans. He often took the opportunity to educate others about the benefits of a plant-based diet, famously quoting George Bernard Shaw: “Animals are my friends and I don’t eat my friends.”
Before his passing, Oscar made a heartfelt wish to contribute to the well-being of animals, ecology, and education. This vision led to the creation of Asher’s Farm Sanctuary, which was established in 2017 on an 8.5-hectare plot in Pretoria East, South Africa.
Oscar believed that humans are meant to be the protectors and caretakers of animals, not their exploiters. He felt strongly that in today’s world, animals are being knowingly and unknowingly exploited for human gain. Asher’s Farm Sanctuary is dedicated to providing a safe haven for farm animals rescued from these industries, where they are treated with compassion and respect.
At Asher’s Farm Sanctuary, animals who have suffered due to factory farming are given a chance to heal, thrive, and live out their lives in peace. The sanctuary not only offers these animals a loving home, but it also raises awareness about the plight of farmed animals and the environmental impact of factory farming.
Oscar's legacy continues through the sanctuary's mission to create a more compassionate world for both humans and animals, where cruelty-free living and environmental consciousness are at the heart of everything we do.
About Us
Our Mission
Our mission is to inspire positive change by raising awareness of the harmful impact of factory farming on both animals and the environment. We aim to shed light on the realities of industrial agriculture and its widespread consequences.
Alongside this, we offer healthy, cruelty-free alternatives, encouraging people to make compassionate choices that support both animal welfare and a sustainable future.
By providing these options, we help individuals live with a clear conscience, knowing they are making a difference for the planet and its inhabitants.
Our Vision
We hope that visitors who spend time with our rescues will see them with new eyes, recognising their gentle nature and forming a deeper connection based on understanding and compassion.
We believe that by fostering these connections, the relationship between humans and animals can begin to heal, grow, and strengthen, paving the way for greater empathy and respect.
Our goal is to inspire a shift in perspective that encourages kindness and humility towards all living beings.