Rosie's Hospice of Compassion,

Rosie’s Hospice of Compassion is home to a family of rescued animals, each with their own story, personality and journey.
Here, every animal is known as an individual and cared for with patience, dignity and love.

Tilt – The Rooster Who Changed Hearts

Tilt was one of the greatest loves of my life — a rooster who touched many hearts and changed the way people see roosters. He had an extraordinary ability to sense emotion and would quietly come close in moments of sadness, offering comfort just by being there. Tilt reminded us that roosters are deeply feeling, intuitive beings, capable of connection, compassion and love.

The short film below shares more of Tilt’s story and the impact he had on so many who met him. His presence continues to be felt through the community that formed around him, including over 50,000 people who followed his journey on Instagram.

Tara – A Story of Healing

Tara was rescued from a broiler shed after it had been depopulated, found buried in the filthy floor. When she arrived at the hospice she was extremely weak, unable to stand and with very little coordination in her body.

With time, gentle nursing and the support of veterinary care and myotherapy, Tara slowly regained her strength. What carried her through was not only treatment, but being surrounded by care, safety and the presence of other animals.

She made a full recovery — a quiet testament to what is possible when an animal is given the chance to heal. She was named Tara after the female Buddha, a symbol of the deepest compassion and wisdom that can arise in the darkest of times, just as it did for Tara.

Sandu - A Story of Return

Sandu came into care in a very fragile state, weak, unable to stand and close to death.

At the hospice, she was supported in a simple, home environment where her care could be adapted to her needs. Gentle water therapy in the bath helped her begin to move again, along with the use of a small flight harness, mobility support and carefully prepared nutrition.

In just eight days, Sandu made a remarkable recovery — and when she was ready, she flew back to join the wild flock where she belonged.

Her story is a reminder that compassion does not stop at species, and that sometimes the greatest act of care is helping an animal return to where they belong.

Bigs - A Life full of Joy

Bigs is a rescued broiler hen who came to the hospice at just two weeks of age. From the very beginning, she showed a vibrant personality — full of life, love and a playful sense of fun.

Bigs has become a beautiful ambassador for chickens, helping people see them as the intelligent, affectionate and sentient beings they truly are. She has been featured in several campaigns by Animals Australia, sharing her story to raise awareness of the realities of the commercial meat industry.

Through Bigs, many people have come to see chickens differently — not as products, but as individuals capable of love, connection and joy.

Evening at the Hospice – A Gentle Rhythm

Each evening, as the day comes to a close, the hospice settles into a familiar and comforting rhythm. The chickens make their way in for the night, each to their own little space with soft bedding, food and everything they need to feel safe and comfortable.

Medications are given, and the day gently winds down.

It’s a special time — a moment of care, connection and rest.

In the quiet of the evening, I can hear them softly chatting to one another as they settle to sleep, ready for another day of life, comfort and simple joys.

A carousel of photos of some of our hospice family past and present