A Promise of Paradise
A S H O R T F I L M B Y S A N C T U A R Y D O C
In the quiet fields of Oklahoma, an unexpected moral awakening unfolds.
Dan Peterson, a Vietnam veteran and retired construction business owner, took up cattle ranching as a retirement project, not fully prepared for the emotional weight it would carry. After sending his first group of cattle to slaughter, he was struck by a deep sense of regret.
A powerful encounter with the matriarch of his herd changed everything. Moved by the connection he felt, Dan made a life-altering decision: he would send the rest of his cattle to sanctuaries, determined to offer them safety and a chance at a peaceful life.
Dan isn't your typical animal rescuer. His background doesn't fit the mold, but his story is a testament to the unexpected places compassion can grow, and the courage it takes to do what's right, even when it means going against the grain.
A Promise of Paradise is a story of rescue, responsibility, and the quiet power of choosing kindness over tradition.
"There's probably some will say that I'm a bleeding heart. Well, I'd rather be a bleeding heart than not have a heart at all."
- D A N P E T E R S O N
D I R E C T O R ' S S T A T E M E N T
Blue-collar war-veteran-ranchers are not your typical animal rescuers, and most people don't think of ranch animals when they think of animal rescue.
Dan breaks the mold in so many ways, and that's why I knew I had to tell this story. He's eloquent, passionate, and understands the importance of sharing his work with the world.
In this film, Dan demonstrates that compassion can start with a single thought and turn into a lifestyle.
By sending his herd of cattle to sanctuaries rather than slaughter, he shows us how the power of kindness not only changed his life, but the lives of so many others.
THOMAS MACHOWICZ, DIRECTOR
Bring This Film to Your Community
A Promise of Paradise was made to be seen and talked about. Host a screening for your class, group, or community, and bring Dan's story to a new audience. Screenings with the director available on request.
Every form of support matters. It allows us to keep showing up, to keep documenting, and to keep telling stories that might otherwise go unseen.
Thank you for being part of this work.