If the saying is true that animals can sense kindness in people, then Gordon County resident Stacy Partyka has written her ticket straight to Santa’s nice list.

Since moving to Gordon County in 2009, Partyka’s Free Reign Farm has become full with abused or mistreated animals from all over the U.S.

However, to an unfamiliar visitor, the animals at Free Reign appear to be nothing of the sort.

“They’ve all improved significantly since coming here,” said Partyka. “They (animals) are all pretty happy.”

The animals in residence includes a 4-year-old pitbull named Kaya. The coal-colored young female still has scars from being a bait dog in dog fights four years ago in Connecticut.

“It’s common for black pitbulls to be used as bait,” Partyka explained. “She was tied down and thrown into these dog fights.”

Kaya was rescued in Hartford, Conn. by Partyka when she 6-months-old. Now, Kaya is almost five and “fully healthy,” said Partyka.

Free Reign Farm is also home to chickens, a three-legged puppy, a horse, mule, a miniature donkey, goats, sheep and dogs who were left for dead on roadsides. Partyka said animal rescue is not something she originally set out to do, but needy animals have come to find her.

“Most of time people will just call me,” she said.

Currently, Partyka said her farm is at full capacity, but is she looking for a place in Gordon County with more land. She said she also hopes to gain non-profit status soon so she can receive donations. Partyka said her biggest difficulty with taking care of the animals is the expense.

Partyka said she is in favor of pet ownership, but said she believes people should be aware of all of the obligations of owning a pet.

“I think that anyone that has a pet needs to make that commitment for the lifetime,” she explained. She also recommends spaying or neutering a pet for population control.

For those interested in more information about Free Reign Farm can contact Partyka through e-mail at kowgirlkamp@gmail.com.