There is a reason why so many houses like an Italian Thanksgiving. Lasagne, pasta, various salads...not only does it taste amazing, but it is also preserving the bird.

Photo credit: The Gentle Barn
Photo credit: The Gentle Barn
loading...

I’m about to tell you something that will change you forever. Are you ready? Turkeys are loyal and affectionate and highly intelligent. They have unique personalities and they love to cuddle. Yes, they cuddle.

The Gentle Barn
The Gentle Barn
loading...

I'm about to mess with your conscience even more, did you know that female turkeys purr? Yep, like a little kitty. They purr...come on! We can't eat anything that purrs!

The Gentle Farm
The Gentle Farm
loading...

As if that wasn't enough, if they really trust you they will even fall asleep in your lap.  They live as we do with tight-knit families and a social circle.

Holy crap, I feel really bad now but there is something that we can do. Instead of eating turkey, there's an animal rescue called The Gentle Barn that is asking people to become a "turkey guardian" on Thanksgiving.  I did not realize that 47,000,000 of these guys are killed for Thanksgiving every year.  If you want to be a hero to a turkey there are specific birds with specific stories that you can help...

Sun the turkey on The Gentle Farm
Sun the turkey on The Gentle Farm
loading...

Like "Sun" who is living in a sanctuary on a California farm. Sun was rescued with her four sisters who had seen other turkeys slaughtered right in front of them and were waiting for the same fate. After volunteers earned her trust with treats, they were able to save her. You can also support Heather who lives at the Tennessee location. She was severely mistreated, lived in horrible conditions, and didn't know kindness at the beginning of her life, but now is treated like family.

Wow, this just got real for me. Did I mention they purr?

To learn more, please visit turkeyguardian.org. Also check out the hashtag #turkeyguardian on social media to see what surprise celebrity guests will be showing their support, and how you can, too! Be a hero and save a life.

Animals are smarter and more connected than we think. These are the smartest dog breeds.

RANKED: Here Are the 63 Smartest Dog Breeds

Does your loyal pup's breed make the list? Read on to see if you'll be bragging to the neighbors about your dog's intellectual prowess the next time you take your fur baby out for a walk. Don't worry: Even if your dog's breed doesn't land on the list, that doesn't mean he's not a good boy--some traits simply can't be measured.

Animals From The Wild Safari Drive-Thru at Six Flags Great Adventure

More From 105.7 The Hawk