Kaley Cuoco Finds Peace and Beauty with Her Rescued Animals on Her Scenic Ranch

The star bought the ranch just north of L.A. about six years ago and takes in any animal in need: “We don’t turn anyone away. It’s become this magical place.”

Actress Kaley Cuoco is talking all about her rescued animals.

Among the variety of animals at her ranch in Thousand Oaks, just outside Los Angeles, are horses, donkeys, chickens, goats, cows, and pigs. They are now part of the family for the 38-year-old star of “Based on a True Story.” She bought the ranch about six years ago, building everything from the ground up, including a petting zoo and fancy chandeliers for the vast barn.

“Everyone knows I rescue dogs, but now I’ve expanded to farm animals and even Thoroughbreds off the track,” says Cuoco. “Anything with four legs is welcome here. We don’t turn anyone away. It’s become this magical place.”

Growing up around horses, Cuoco knew it was important to get her 1-year-old daughter, Matilda, familiar with animals right from the start.

“I’ve introduced her to every single horse. There’s even a pony here waiting for her when she’s ready to ride,” says the “Flight Attendant” star. “Even if she doesn’t end up riding, this place is perfect for learning responsibility, doing chores, and taking care of animals.”

The ranch also serves as a retreat for Cuoco when she needs to escape from Hollywood. “I come out here, and there’s no phone. The animals all run up to you,” she says. “It feels like an honor to have this space.”

The property was also a key factor in her relationship with partner Tom Pelphrey, 41, with whom she started dating in 2022. “When I dug through Tom’s Instagram, and every photo had this big German shepherd, I knew he loved dogs,” recalls Cuoco.

After they met, Pelphrey mentioned how much he wished he could have more animals. “He visited me early in our relationship, and I brought him out here. The look on his face when he saw all the animals—I never could have imagined this,” she recalls.

Now, with six dogs, “he knew animals were going to be a big part of our life.”

Among her favorite animals?

“Oh, my goats. They are so hysterical. But I also love my two cows, Connie and Ronnie,” Cuoco says. “The goats live with the pigs, who live with the chickens, who live with the ducks. They all live together with the mini horses and dwarf ponies, and it’s kind of beautiful.”

The unconditional love from these animals means the world to her.

“They love you no matter what. We’ve taken animals from terrible situations, and seeing them thrive here, they’re so happy,” she says. “Giving them a second chance at life, especially the older ones who are living their golden days here, means the world to me.”

Cuoco’s new pet-care brand, Oh Norman!, was inspired by her beloved dog, Norman, a pit bull mix who passed away in January 2021 at 14 years old. The brand offers eco-friendly, durable, and safe products including liquid supplements, dog bowls, treats, toys, and clothing.

“Launching this line, I always wanted to do this,” she explains. “I love dogs and dog products, and a percentage of the purchases goes towards rescue. That was crucial for me.”

She hopes to grow the company similarly to how the Honest Co. has done for babies. “That’s my goal for what Oh Norman! could do for dogs,” she says. “I hope in a few years we can say we’ve given millions back to rescue. That’s the dream.”

Norman “changed my life,” Cuoco adds. “There’s nothing like that love. These dogs come from horrible situations, like Norman did, and he was with me for 13 years. I named my production company and my pet line after him. He lives on forever.”

Cuoco recalls some tough times. “I was at my lowest about three years ago, and Norman was there with me, laying on the floor. They’re just there for you no matter what,” she says. “It’s very special. No judgment, just constant companionship.”

Looking around her ranch, Cuoco gets emotional. “This place has brought so much joy to my family and friends,” she says. “It’s kind of an open-door policy. Come in, bring an apple, you’re more than welcome.”

From playing catch with her father to eventually teaching Matilda to ride, Cuoco treasures every day at her ranch. “We sit outside, take in the view, and have a glass of wine, and before we know it, it’s 8 p.m. because there’s no concept of time here,” she says. “This was my dream, and we brought it to life.”