I was recently in New York City for the kick off of a nationwide tour for my new book, “Farm Sanctuary: Changing Hearts and Minds about Animals and Food.”  I was inspired and energized to be among hundreds of dedicated, caring citizens who came to a celebrity-studded launch party at the Salmagundi Art Center on March 4 and also to presentations at Columbia and Fordham universities later in the week.  Participants were interested and engaged at every event.

I was also glad to find so many animal free foods, and I enjoyed amazing vegan meals at great vegan eateries.  Some restaurants also make a point to buy locally produced organic foods and support more efficient farming systems. There is clearly a burgeoning awareness about sustainability and the benefits of eating plants instead of animals throughout the Big Apple.

At one New York deli that was not vegan I heard a customer ask specifically for a vegan sandwich.  At another restaurant, a friend and I were talking about animal protection efforts when a woman at the adjoining table approached us to say she heard us talking and wanted to get more active in the cause.  More and more people are supporting farmers markets and community gardens, which are expanding in and around New York and improving the quality of life in these neighborhoods.

Many New Yorkers share their homes with cats or dogs, and they take their dogs for walks.  The dogs stop to greet each other, and help connect their human companions who take a few moments to do the same.  I imagine many human friendships start this way.  Sitting at the airport writing this, I heard excited voices and looked over to see a dog making the rounds, nuzzling people and getting pets.  Kindness and appreciation of animals is not only good for animals, but also good for us.  On a recent flight, I picked up an airline magazine, which had a hospital ad citing studies to show that spending time with animals helps to prevent, as well as heal, illnesses.

At Farm Sanctuary, we live with cows, pigs, chickens, turkeys and other animals.  They are our friends, not our food, and it is a joy to share our lives with them.  As I travel from city to city to discuss my book, I will continue sharing our animals’ stories and I will encourage people to recognize that farm animals, like all animals, deserve to be treated with respect and compassion.

I hope to see you on the road, or at one of our sanctuaries in Watkins Glen, N.Y. or Orland, Calif. this coming year. Information about the book tour is online at www.genebaur.org, and information about Farm Sanctuary is at www.farmsanctuary.org.