Story

How a few ducklings in 2018 changed everything

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In the spring of 2018, we never imagined that a handful of tiny ducklings would be the spark that ignited a lifelong mission. Gagne Homestead and Rescue didn’t begin with a plan or a facility—just compassion, a willingness to help, and a deep sense of responsibility.

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It all started when we were approached by a local school participating in a common educational activity: a classroom hatching program. Students had watched baby ducks hatch as part of a life sciences lesson. But once the project ended, the ducklings needed a home

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When we were asked if we could take them in, we didn’t hesitate. With no farm, no formal rescue, and little more than a backyard and a love for animals, we took those babies home. We built them a makeshift brooder, learned what we could on the fly, and poured our hearts into keeping them safe and healthy. That first experience opened our eyes to the larger need: animals need our help.

 

Those ducklings thrived—and in caring for them, something shifted. We realized just how many animals out there, from birds and rabbits to goats and beyond, were ending up unwanted, neglected, or abandoned. We began to say “yes” more often: to pets surrendered by overwhelmed owners, and even to livestock that had outlived their usefulness.

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Our little backyard quickly transformed into a refuge. With each new arrival, our commitment grew deeper. We learned how to care for different species, built safe enclosures, and poured our time, energy, and personal resources into building a space where animals could feel secure and loved.

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What started as a rescue effort slowly evolved into something more—a homestead rooted in compassion. Over time, Gagne Homestead and Rescue became known in our community as a safe place for animals in need. People began reaching out, asking if we could take in a rabbit that had been set free in the woods, a duck left behind at a pond, a goat who no longer had a home. A dog or cat no longer able to stay with their family. And time and time again, we said yes.

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Today, Gagne Homestead and Rescue is a growing rescue and sanctuary where every animal is treated with respect and care, regardless of their background. We’ve taken in animals from neglectful situations, those with special medical needs, and animals that simply needed a chance. We’ve celebrated recoveries, mourned losses, and learned countless lessons along the way.

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Our mission is simple, but powerful:
To provide a safe, loving environment for rescued animals to live out their lives with dignity—and to inspire compassion and responsible care through education and advocacy.

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We are still family-run, still learning, and still growing. We rely on the kindness of our community and the passion that started it all—passion born from a handful of ducklings.

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From that first spring day in 2018 to now, one truth has remained constant:
Every life matters. Every rescue counts.

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                                                                       Welcome to Gagne Homestead and Rescue. We’re so glad you’re here.