An Entertainment Abuses Article used with permission from All-Creatures.org

In Defense of Animals announces that the turtles formerly forced to race at Brennan’s bar have found a new home at Freedom Farms, where they will live out their days with dignity in a natural environment.

Brennan’s Racing Turtles Rescued by Freedom Farms
From Justin Cross, IDA In Defense of Animals, idausa.org
May 2026

Photos from In Defense of Animals

In Defense of Animals is proud to announce the rescue of nine red-eared slider turtles from the former Los Angeles bar Brennan’s, which permanently closed at the end of 2025 after decades of hosting controversial turtle races. For more than 50 years, the bar’s turtle racing events drew crowds and became part of its public identity, but animal advocates long raised concerns about the welfare and exploitation of the turtles used for entertainment. Following sustained pressure from In Defense of Animals and other animal protection organizations, the practice ultimately ended.

Photos from In Defense of Animals

After Brennan’s closed, In Defense of Animals worked directly with the previous ownership to coordinate a safe rehoming plan for the turtles at Freedom Farms, the organization’s sanctuary on California’s Central Coast. The rescue marks a new chapter for these animals — one centered on safety, dignity, and compassionate care.

Freedom Farms is already home to a growing family of rescued animals, including 25 cows, five peacocks, a former racehorse, a donkey, cats, and thriving native wildlife. Now, our sanctuary staff is transforming a small pond into a carefully designed habitat where the turtles can safely bask, swim, and thrive in a peaceful natural environment with both shade and sunlight.

Our vision for the project goes beyond rescue alone. The future turtle habitat will also serve as an educational and reflective space for visitors, offering an opportunity to connect with these often-overlooked animals, better understand what it takes to be a responsible guardian when adopting an exotic animal, and become an ethical steward for wildlife coexistence.

While construction and habitat improvements are underway, the turtles are receiving individualized care and close monitoring in a quiet indoor setup designed to reduce stress and support their transition to sanctuary life.

Photos from In Defense of Animals

Rescues like this are only possible because of compassionate supporters who believe animals deserve protection, respect, and a chance at a better life.

If you would like to support the ongoing care of these turtles and help Freedom Farms continue creating safe havens for rescued animals, please consider donating, sponsoring an animal resident, or visiting the sanctuary to learn more about its mission. Your contribution helps provide food, habitat improvements, veterinary care, and a lifelong sanctuary for animals in need.

Learn more about the animals and the efforts we're making at our Creston-based sanctuary.

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Posted on All-Creatures.org: May 24, 2026
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