She is the founder of Funny Farm Rescue & Sanctuary, a nonprofit animal rescue in Mays Landing, N.J., which now cares for more than 600 residents (up from 200, her ex's preferred limit).

Children with special needs are also invited to private field trips at the farm. Amon-Higa emphasized that Animal Assisted Happiness is not a working farm. "We're not a petting zoo," she said.