The End of an Era

Blog written by Sarah Klapstein

It's the end of an era at Baby Goat Central but the beginning of forever for 3 of the most beloved goats, the Bug family.  I knew this day would come and I also knew that no matter when it happened, I would never be emotionally prepared for it.  This family’s ties to this farm and my heart run deep.  If you've followed us for awhile, you know their story.  For those who haven't heard their story, here's the “as short as I can make it” version....

3 years ago in the spring we took in 2 darling baby boys from one of the dairies we get babies from every year.  Our transport volunteer showed me a video of their tiny little baby sister left behind at the dairy, since she was female they planned to keep her or sell her for breeding as they do with most of the baby girls.  I immediately had this gut feeling that we needed to get her too.  I couldn't stop thinking about her.  So we made a plea to get her and a few days later, she was here.  The triplets were reunited.  Not long after, the boys got sick from something they were exposed to before they came to the rescue.  Then their sister, little miss Jitterbug, got sick as well. In the agonizing days that followed, the boys, Griffey & Gideon, passed away but Jitterbug made a full recovery.  Fast forward to that winter when the same dairy asked if we could take 10 young does they were taking out of their breeding program, some were possibly  pregnant.   As soon as I saw a photo of Ladybug, I thought she just might be the triplet's mom.  A few questions later and yes, it was her!  It turned out 9 of the 10 girls in the group were pregnant including Ladybug.  I knew long before her babies were born that if Ladybug had a girl she would be named GiGi in honor of Griffey and Gideon.  Two years ago in April, the twins, GiGi & Tatonka were born and life at BGC hasn't been the same since.

Busy, entertaining, mischievous, bossy, the list goes on and on of words you could use to describe this family.   Endearing is the one I will always come back to.  Their trust and affection has to be earned but when you earn it, the reward is great.  Just ask the volunteers who have known them since they were born who just recently have been able to pet and get affection from GiGi.  However, if you have a banana they will be your best friend and will forever remember you and stalk you for their favorite secret snack there after.  We absolutely love and adore them but their forever home hasn't been the easiest to come by.

They are an incredibly bonded family that plays off the energy and antics of each other. They need a perfect set up that will both keep them safe and give them enough room with things to do to keep them busy.  That combined with their finicky nature about warming up to strangers when people come to meet adoptable goats and we knew that perfect home was going to be hard to find.  It was out there but where?  In the back of my mind I always knew the amazing family in Bend, OR that has adopted a number of our rescues including Renata & her boys as well as lamb Poppy, among many others, would be that perfect fit.  A huge, beautiful farm, a goat savvy family, lots of other goats and acres and acres with things to do... but the timing just wasn't right.  Until now.  The time felt right to reach out to see if they would be willing to offer the Bug family a forever home since after 2.5 years, we still hadn't found it.  

They said yes.  I almost cried with happiness and relief.  A weight was lifted as I knew I wouldn't have to worry about them finding that perfect home anymore. 

This may just be the hardest goodbye for me yet but I know, without any doubt, that this is their forever home and family.  It won't be the same here, the void they leave will surely be felt and I know that Nicky & Nitro will miss them too.  It will certainly be easier around here though, there will be more room in the main herd at BGC and I know for certain, that the almost 30 kids here right now will not miss them.  Not at all.  The Bug family is notorious for being hard on the littles and it will be a much more peaceful dynamic for the kids to grow up in. 

This is the definition of those bittersweet adoption days. But this is what we do, we find forever homes for our rescues so we can keep on saving more. There are more goats to save and more that will capture my heart and more that will carve out a piece of history here just like the Bugs have. 

Words can’t express just how grateful we are to this wonderful family for opening their farm and hearts to 3 more of our rescues. They are a truly amazing family and we are so lucky to have them in our circle. 

I have been constantly reminding myself of one of my favorite quotes as we prepare to see the Bugs off to their new adventure this weekend “Don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened” -Dr. Seuss 

Family ties

Blog written by Sarah Klapstein

If you've been following us for awhile you'll know that a many of our rescued babies each year come from a dairy that we have had a relationship with for years.  During that time we've gotten to know some of their goats and have developed some "family traditions" over the years, like getting the siblings of BGC permanent residents Nicky & Nitro each year.  Over the years we've taken in special needs animals, a group of young pregnant does and also a group of retirees from the dairy. 

One of those retirees, Yumi, much to everyone's surprise, was pregnant and gave birth to twins Keiko & YoYo just days after she arrived at the rescue. Her pasture mate was Ruby, a younger doe who was being retired due to injuries she sustained during kidding that year that left her with some mobility issues.  The family of 4 became some of our most beloved residents.  Last summer their perfect forever home came along, just a few miles from us.  The family then added calves Cupid & Swoosh and Oberhasli boys Emmett & Elliot.  And this past winter when the dairy reached out to us about Ruby's twin sister who had sustained similar injuries to Ruby after a miscarriage, they didn't hesitate to welcome Jewel to their family as well.

Fast forward to this past week...Yumi's one daughter still at the dairy was due to have her babies.  Last year we tired to get her babies but we couldn't.  This year, we tried again but they already had someone lined up to buy them.  That fell through a few days after they were born and we had the opportunity to save them.  What we thought would be 2 or 3 babies to end the season with this dairy became 7 unexpectedly and as full as we are, we knew we needed some help.  So we once again reached out to Yumi's family and they didn't hesitate to not only foster her grandkids but to more likely than not, be their forever home as well.  

So these two little loves will head home today to a family so full of love where they are sure to have the very best life.  I'd be lying if I said I wasn't a little sad to see them go, Yumi has such a big space in my heart and I was set on doing everything we could to get those babies this year.  I loved them before they even arrived here Wednesday but this is the most perfect home for them.  Even though they don't get to be raised by their mom, they will get to be raised alongside their family 

Family ties tug at my heart strings.  We develop such bonds with some of our rescues....it compels us to do all we can to bring their family members into our care as well.  The little boy, he's a mini Yumi and such a love bug and the little girl, she is the personality twin to Yumi's daughter Keiko.  In just a few short days they have already cemented a permanent place in my heart.  I can't wait to see them grow up alongside their family!

Buttermilk

We could all use a feel good story right now.  Yesterday we welcomed a very special lady to the rescue, meet Buttermilk!  Her story and her journey is nothing short of amazing.  A truly wonderful group of compassionate and dedicated volunteers, known as "Team Buttermilk" not only saved her life but made sure she made her way somewhere where she had goat friends, safety and freedom. 

Her story is best told by those involved in her rescue:

“Buttermilk: a.k.a. The Cave Goat

While driving the Highway 95 corridor between Lewiston and Lapwai, ID during the past few years, you may have noticed a lone, pale, four-legged creature high among the cliffs above the Spaulding Bridge that crosses the Clearwater River. If so, then you have met, from afar, a feral goat that had escaped its home (on private land) and taken up residence in the cliffs on Nez Perce Tribal Land. To the locals who often kept an eye out for her this animal had become a minor celebrity known as either “the cave goat” or more affectionately, “Buttermilk.”

Unfortunately, besides being a very lonely existence for her, Buttermilk’s presence there threatened the already diminished local bighorn sheep population. She could potentially transmit deadly upper respiratory bacterium that are naturally carried by domestic sheep and goats, and that cause pneumonia in bighorn sheep, leading to massive, large-scale die-offs. The introduction of domestic sheep and goats as well as unregulated hunting by European settlers were the main culprits in the tremendous historic declines in bighorn sheep. Though hunting is now heavily regulated, the threat from the presence of domestic sheep and goats is still a very real concern today.

Nez Perce Tribal Wildlife Director, Neil Thagard, explained that, “as feral livestock can be a threat to native plants and wildlife species, it was essential to remove the cave goat.” In the past Thagard had worked with Buttermilk’s previous owner in attempting to have him retrieve his goat and return her home, however, after numerous unsuccessful attempts to catch her, she was abandoned to her solitary hillside life and the responsibility for her fell to the Tribe’s Wildlife Division.

It was necessary, as part of his commitment to the Tribe’s natural resources, for Thagard to get Buttermilk off the hillside.  Although as a last resort she would have had to be lethally removed, Thagard wanted to avoid this alternative if at all possible. He kept a close eye on her waiting for her to begin using a small shelf in the hillside, the safest portion of the landscape (for his and the goats safety), then planned to establish a feeding station with some oats to lure her in and get her used to being near people again. This method would be most tempting and effective when there wasn’t a lot of other vegetation for her to eat; so in January 2020 he began hauling buckets of oats up the hillside every few days.

After several weeks as Buttermilk became habituated to the food and the presence of Thagard, a humane trap was set – a simple but effective “snare” using a five-gallon bucket of oats and a rope; and a lot of patience. Once Buttermilk was caught, she began pulling herself toward the cliffs edge with Thagard in tow, but he managed to get her under control before either of them were in any danger from the steep terrain. It was then just a matter of a short walk down the hill to start her new life.

Nez Perce Wildlife biologist, Dr. Kerey Barnowe-Meyer had a truck and trailer waiting at the bottom of the hill to take Buttermilk to a local horse boarding facility, a temporary home that was arranged for her by Nez Perce Wildlife biologist, Dr. Angela Sondenaa. Removing Buttermilk safely and making sure she would be cared for in preparation for adoption was definitely a team effort!

Too often, the story of an abandoned, feral animal such as Buttermilk does not have a happy ending, but with all the time and effort the Wildlife crew had put into her capture and care, it was important to them to find her a safe and loving home. Through a network of friends and connections, Thagard and his wife Catherine contacted the Puget Sound Goat Rescue who agreed to take Buttermilk and ensure she is loved and cared for. In the early days of March, a small army of volunteers who came to be known as “Team Buttermilk” worked to arrange transport for Buttermilk to her new home on the West coast, far from any danger she could pose to Idaho’s bighorn sheep. There she will live with other goats and receive the attention and companionship that she deserves.”

Buttermilk arrived after a long drive yesterday and is settling in well with the herd at one our wonderful foster homes.  Katie & Dave are so invested in the goats in their care and we knew their farm was the perfect landing spot for Buttermilk.  We are so happy to give this girl her next chapter, welcome home Buttermilk!  

2019 Rescued Baby Season Yearbook

Blog written by Sarah Klapstein

2019 felt like the rescued baby season that just wouldn't end.  I'll blame my very late posting of our annual yearbook on that fact.  They started arriving mid February and at the end of July, we finally welcomed the last rescued baby of the season.  In between, we saved 105 innocent newborn babies.  We went through hundreds of gallons of goat's milk, prepped, fed and washed thousands of bottles, laughed, worried, snuggled, stressed and everything in between while raising so many sweet, entertaining and individual personality filled little ones.  They all own their own titles, their own special places in our hearts but each year we choose a few to highlight in the annual PSGR Rescued Kids Yearbook....so here it is, some highlights of 2019, better late than never.

Queen: Biscotti 

From the moment she was born, she was tagged as a beauty queen.  She's not just a pretty face, yes, she's a head turner but she's also polite, kind and appreciates all the love and attention she gets to soak up, the perfect little Queen.  

Queen Biscotti

King: Larkin

Handsome, confident, athletic, smart and sweet, what more could you ask for in a King?  He had this title locked in the minute he arrived.  

King Larkin

Cutest Couple: Tulip & Digby

2019 was full of so many cute twin duos!  This adorable duo is one of the most unique, they came in solid white in color with just a little black eyeliner and little by little, they started to change color and just look at this gorgeous duo now!  And those faces.....the definition of cute! 

Tulip & Digby

Most likely to be the next big thing: Isla 

Her beauty is striking but that isn't the only thing that makes this girl so special, she is sweet, kind and calm but a little sass and girl power when she needs it.  She doesn't like to be the center of attention, she doesn't demand to be in the spotlight which makes her all the more endearing.  She has yet to be discovered by anyone outside of her inner circle but as soon as she is, she's bound to be a star and will make her forever family one very lucky family!  

Isla

Most likely to steal your heart: Everly  

One of the most memorable kids of the season, Everyly came to us from one of the dairies we work with as she was born with some eye issues, it was clear she had vision issues but they weren't exactly sure what the extent was.  A few minor eye surgeries by our beloved Dr. P later, she still has extremely limited vision but that doesn't slow this girl down, not one bit.  She is playful, snuggly, charismatic and doesn't know that she is any different than any of the other goats.  She is a daily reminder that often what makes you different is what makes you beautiful.  

Sweet little Everly

The Best Comeback of 2019: Team Ober!

2019 saw the return of Team Ober!  Oberhasli goats are one of our favorite breeds, not only are they gorgeous with the sweetest little baby faces but they are playful, athletic, curious and some of the best lap babies!  2019's Team Ober included two stunningly gorgeous black Oberhasli boys and it also included some sassy little ladies.  It also had 2 of our comeback kids of the year, Boo, who had to learn to drink milk from a bowl as he had some severe issues with bottle feeding and Titus, who was orphaned after a difficult birth and sustained a fractured leg during such a traumatic birth.  Both boys are now healthy and thriving!    

Most Likely to be voted President in 2020: Noah

Sweet, smart, understated, level headed and loved by all, Noah would be a shoe in for President.  He was a volunteer favorite, all the goats wanted to be his best friend and he was an amazing ambassador at community events.  Noah has our vote today and every day!

Most Likely to be carded until he's 50: Mingo

The definition of a "baby face" with those big innocent eyes and little voice to match his little body, this kid was definitely the "baby" of the season.  He finally started growing up but still had that sweet little baby face that can charm anyone into doing anything.  

Mingo

Best bed making skills: Augie 

Lamancha see, Lamancha do.  It's a motto that rings true around here each and every day.  Last year's "Most Likely to be an Interior Designer" title holder, Tatonka, has created quite an apprentice in Augie.  I have often said I need to start a Bingo card of where the bed in Augie's stall will be each morning.  Upside down, as a slide, in a pool, in a water bucket, up against the wall, just when I think we've seen it all, he has a new design to show off.  

Augie and some of his bed designs and snuggling with his sister & BFF Ava

Most likely to sleep in class: Lockett 

Tiny little Lockett could always and I mean, always be found napping somewhere.  "Where's Lockett"?.....all the kids were out grazing....where was Lockett?  Lounging in a hay tub while eating, sun bathing on a bed, lounging in a pool, chilling on the barn ramp....the kid could and did sleep anywhere.  When he played, he played fast and hard and went right back to napping.  These days he's a ribbon winning pack goat alongside his BFF Kody and 2 leg BFF Kendrick.  

Little lounging Lockett

Class Clown:  Avery 

The one who can always, always make you laugh.  Curious, into everything, playful and goofy with those bright eyes and adorable head tilt.  It takes a big personality to top Lamancha antics but Avery had it all and easily took the title of Class Clown.  

Biggest Flirt: Beatrice 

All it took was the batting of those long, soft eyelashes to make hearts melt.  Beatrice, one a few girls we had the privilege of saving alongside so  many boys this year, was such a girly girl and used her charm on everyone she met.  She is still waiting to meet that perfect forever family, no doubt she will charm her way into their hearts the moment they meet her.

We couldn't finish out this year's class without a special mention to our end of season "transfer students" the 9 young Lamancha & Mini-Lamancha boys who came to us after they were saved from a scam artist who got them from a dairy under false pretenses and planned to sell them at a livestock auction.  These adorable, hilarious, sweet and full of personality boys were the most wonderful, unexpected addition to a very full rescued baby season.  Although they came months after we wrapped up baby season, they fit in with our baby season kids seamlessly and have stolen the hearts of everyone.  

An honorable mention must be given to the best "baby goat sitter," farm dog Addie.  For 5 rescued baby seasons since we adopted her from a rescue in Texas, Addie has taken on this role with such pride and such love.  Her relationship with the babies is truly heartwarming.  She is their pillow, climbing structure, friend, sense of comfort and their guardian.  Addie in turn adores "her babies" and the relationship she develops with them provides us with so many sweet captured moments. 

105 babies....it really is an amazing number when we stop to think about it.  It takes a village to raise so many babies and as always, ours is the best!  From our transporters, to our rock star vet Dr. P, to our intern, to our dedicated volunteers, to our fosters, to those of you who donate towards their supplies and care, we simply could not do it without each and every one of you that makes rescued baby season as successful as it is each and every year.  

The bottles were all packed away only 2 short months ago but they'll be coming back out in just a few short weeks.  Although mentally we are never quite ready for rescued baby season to start each year, our hearts are always ready to welcome those who need us most.  2019 kids, you were a unforgettable, rockstar class!  Now, a new year is upon us, a new decade and a new group of amazing kids are on their way...we'll see you soon little ones!  

Reality Check

Blog written by Sarah Klapstein

Saturday we did a rescue from the front lines of slaughter.  We haven't done one of these types of rescues in awhile.  This situation came up and we knew we needed to act.  These rescues are never easy, the sights, the smells, their heartbreaking.  We smile, shake hands and go into saving lives mode.  Those who know me, know I have an irrational fear of birds.  I always make sure the turkeys and chickens are put away before I walk through the gates at the main farm.  I've been held hostage in a stall there out of my irrational fear of them.  Saturday, I was amongst chickens and geese and ducks and it didn't even phase me as I had my sights and heart set on the little Lamancha standing there, covered in dried muck, shedding horribly, skeleton thin but with an unmistakable light in his eyes.  I knelt down and he came up and nuzzled my face.   I was in love.  There are times I get attached from the minute I lay eyes on a goat, this was one of those times.  

There was no question, he was coming home with us.  When we arrived, I carried his little body to his new pasture and even in the dark, the minute I set him down he started to graze after eating hay the entire ride home.  These poor babies were starving.  After getting the 4 that stayed with me at BGC all set up with lots of food, warm water and warm cozy beds, I headed in for the night when he started to cry.  Cries that broke my heart.  Nothing was wrong, he was just confused and nervous.  Change, no matter how good, is hard on goats.  If I could have taken him into the house with me, I would have.  

Ravi is starting to settle in.  There is always this decompression time goats saved from these situations go through.  Once they realize they are safe and can finally relax.  This morning he gave me a scare, he and his roommate Zoran are the first goats I check on in the morning as they are living adjacent to the house.  They were curled up together in their pool full of straw and Ravi had his head curled back, tucked into Zoran's side, eyes closed.  I started to talk to them, Zoran answered but Ravi didn't.  He didn't even move.  My heart started to race but then he woke up, sleepily out of a deep slumber.  His eyes lit up when he saw me and his sleepy little body jumped up to come greet me.  I think he is finally feeling good enough to truly relax.  His little body is finally getting the help and nutrition it needs.  We're working our way through getting the muck off of him, he absolutely loves being brushed.  He is gaining strength and that light in his eyes is getting brighter.  

These front lines of slaughter rescues always serve as a reality check.  A  stark reminder of the neglect and fate that so many goats are suffering.  These rescues always remind me of how beyond grateful I am that my boys, Nicky and Nitro, all of our bottle raised babies,  all of our families, all of the goats in our care that come to us from other avenues, have never had to and never will have to, suffer that fate.  It serves as a reminder of why the other side of the work that we do, the dairy babies, the retired dairy girls and seniors, the owner surrenders, of why they are all just as important.  We are ensuring that they never, ever set foot in a livestock auction or suffer the neglect and fear of living at a slaughterhouse or backyard butcher operation.  

I struggled with what to name Ravi.  I tried so many names, goggled so many things.  He reminds me so much of my little beloved Max that we lost back in 2017 but I knew I couldn't have another Max here at BGC.  Then I came across Ravi.  Ravi means Sun.  I felt like it was fitting.  The "Saved from Slaughter 6" rescue was a hard dose of reality but we saved 6 lives and the other reality is that the sun always rises.  Each and every day.  Ravi now has many days full of sunshine and the very best life ahead.  

Ravi at the backyard butcher we saved him from on Saturday

Ravi today

The Golden Girls

Blog written by Sarah Klapstein

“The longer I live the more beautiful life becomes” -Frank Lloyd Wright

Beautiful Yumi

Yumi, I love this little old lady so much. The past few months I feel like finally, Yumi is truly settled into her new life.

This past spring one of the dairies we get baby boys from asked if we could provide retirement homes for a dozen of their older girls needing retirement. I immediately asked if Yumi was in the group. A few years ago while there to pick up babies, I spotted this adorable little cream Lamancha with a beautiful beard and a head full of curly top hair amongst the dozens and dozens of other goats. I instantly loved her. Conversations led me to realize we were bottle raising her babies from that year at Baby Goat Central.  Bruno & Gus. Bruno was the spitting image of his mom.  I texted my good friend and volunteer Amber “I just met B& G’s mom, I love her. We need her!” Fast forward 2 years later and we have her and she’s one of the most wonderful goats I have had the privilege of caring for.

Love this girl so much!

Yumi, as with all of our other Golden Girls, was a dairy girl for over a decade.  Leaving that life was a huge change for the girls to say the least.  They have all adjusted in their own way and in their own time.  Yumi seemed to make the transition seamlessly.  She is a typical Lamancha doe, strong and bossy.  But who she is today versus who she was when she arrived, she is a much different goat.  She is settled into her life of leisure that she gets to share with the twins she gave birth to less than a week after she arrived.  To watch her evolve as a mom, from an over protective, obsessive mother to letting her kids gain their independence and strong personalities, it’s been amazing.  She is comfortable in that her babies are hers, forever. She has become my quiet companion every morning. She follows me around, always the observer and never misses an opportunity to give me leg massages with her curly hair topped head.   She has become very affectionate, I feel it’s a sign of the trust that I’ve earned.  She has always trusted me in a way, she sort of had to.  She was in a new place after over a decade, she was raising babies for the first time and I was always around, whether she liked it or not.  But this trust, this trust is different.  Today, she is truly settled and her personality shows it. 

Yumi and her son YoYo

Since welcoming the Golden Girls we have had to say goodbye to a few of these lovely ladies, Ysadora, Velvet, Virtue and Ynez all spent the last few months of their lives pampered in their retirement.  Wish and May reside with board member Bonnie and May welcomed a sweet baby girl a few weeks after her arrival with us. May is truly having the time of her life being able to raise her baby girl.  Yakina has a forever home with adopter Hannah and her herd of PSGR grads.  Jubilee, Lady and Victory have an amazing retirement home with foster mom Debbie while Yumi and her kids along with not so “golden” girl Ruby reside here with me at Baby Goat Central. 

Last week I watched Yumi run and frolic with her kids.  Like she was a decade younger than she actually is.  I couldn’t help but laugh out loud as my heart was so full watching her play.  No matter how long they are each with us, they are so very loved.  They deserve all the love and pampering in the world.  We are so happy to be able to give them this life, a life I think my favorite old lady Yumi would say, is quite beautiful.   

A few of our lovely Golden Girls

A year in the making

Blog written by Sarah Klapstein

Tomorrow is adoption day.  One that is always bittersweet for me, this one especially.  This one was a year in the making.

If you don't know Renata's story, I'll make a long story as short as I can.  A year ago I received a text from one of the dairies we work with about a mom and her two boys, just one week old.  The ligaments in her udder had given out after years of breeding and milking and she could no longer be milked.  Our farms were full, so full, but one of our fosters agreed to take her and the boys in.  As soon as Barbara picked her up she called me and said she couldn't go to the foster, she needed more TLC and medical attention than we thought so she and her babies were coming to Baby Goat Central.  Not only did she have a dropped udder, she had an infected growth in one of her feet, she was incredibly thin and one of her babies had been sick.  It was clear, she needed us far more than we knew.  When they pulled into BGC and I opened the truck, I was in love.  Train wreck that she was, I was in love.

Renata trusted me immediately, something she doesn't do easily I have learned this past year.  Her and I developed a bond, one that would prove to be so important to get her through all she has been through this past year, recovering from all she has endured, including a toe amputation Dr. P had to do earlier this year.  Her boys, Duke & Duncan are as friendly as bottle babies.  At almost a year old they still nurse from their Mama and still think they are lap babies.  We say they are Great Danes who think they are Chihuahuas.  Everyone falls head over heels for Duke & Duncan.  Every volunteer at BGC.  Every potential adopter.  I have always said I wanted a home for Renata that loved the family for her.  A home where it was about her and her kids were a bonus.  Not a home where it was about the boys and she was the sidekick that had to come along.  I knew finding that home wouldn't be easy.

This past winter a lovely family expressed interest in Renata & the boys and made a long drive to meet them and all of our adoptable goats to add to their farm family.   A very sweet, generous and rescue minded family that has a number of rescued animals who have found sanctuary at their big, beautiful farm.  But when they made the trip to visit, it was clear to us all, it was not Renata & the boys time.  They instead adopted 7 goat kids, a sheep and a turkey!  In the weeks that followed we made the decision to have Renata's toe amputated as we could not get the infection in it to go away.  A few other families were interested in them in the months that followed but I always got the feeling it wasn't their time yet.  They weren't the right homes.

Even with Renata physically finally ready for a forever home, it wasn't until recently that I got that unexplainable feeling that they were ready, it was their time.  She has been my biggest recovery project here at Baby Goat Central.  It has been a year of one thing after another and she has been such a trooper.  The past few weeks I have finally felt that my job is done.  It's time for their next chapter.  Renata has recovered from every procedure, she has gained a lot of weight and a shiny, healthy coat.  She has learned that bananas are the best treat ever.  She has learned and responds to her name as well as her nickname "Big Mama".  She perfectly stands for her frequent hoof trims to keep her walking as best as possible now that she is minus one toe.  She adores her boys and me and her favorite volunteers who bring her bananas.  She is healthy, she is happy and she has embraced the fact that she is now free to just be and live her life with her boys.  My job is done.  

We've stayed in touch with this family and when the need arose for them to re-home two sheep with us (more on that tomorrow) they had room to adopt some more goats, something they had been thinking about doing for awhile.  They asked about Renata.  Kate hadn't forgotten about her.  I knew, without a doubt, that this is the forever home they were meant to have.  When it all became official, there were tears, happy tears.  A year after they arrived, my job was done and the next chapter was ready to be written.  

As hard as it is for me to say goodbye and as different as BGC will feel after tomorrow, I could not be happier about their new home.  This is what I have wanted for this family all along.  Words can not express my gratitude to Kate & her family for adding Renata & her little family to theirs.  I know they will love them just as much as I do.  

It has been a long road this past year but it has led to a truly amazing home with a truly wonderful family.  Now to go get in some more snuggles with the family tonight, they have a big day ahead tomorrow!  

2018 Baby Season Yearbook

Blog written by Sarah Klapstein

There is light at the end of the rescued baby season tunnel.  The bottles are getting packed away for the season, the baby play structures are moving into storage, kids are growing up and finding their forever homes and we can't help but get a little nostalgic about all of the little lives that have come through the rescue this year.  101 babies saved.  It started early in the year and with bitter cold temperatures, both farms had house babies for weeks and weeks.  (who can forget little Gavin watching the Winter Olympics and talking to the skiers or Poppy the lamb jumping on the bed and pawing at the covers at 6am for her bottle) and rescued baby season came to a close with Baylor & Boone, 2 little Nubian twins who took our numbers to over 100 babies saved this season.  A number we have become quite familiar with the past few years.

Gavin & Greyson, house babies

19 of our rescued babies have been born at the rescue to pregnant moms we rescued this past winter.  So many pregnant moms and births certainly added a different element to rescued baby season.  On top of what feels like never ending bottle prepping, feeding and washing each baby season there was around the clock baby watch, constantly checking expectant moms for signs of labor and waiting and watching and waiting and watching.  So many babies, so many families, so many amazingly sweet, entertaining, full of unique personality babies, it's been yet another memorable baby season.  

Each year, it's hard to select just a handful to feature in our yearbook.  Every baby is unique and special and each makes their mark in their own way.  This year, as there is every year, some kids laid claim to their titles and held on tight!  

Homecoming Queen: Delaney

Delaney

Sweet, charismatic and loved by all.  With her adorable little face and her eyelashes that go on for days, she charms everyone who meets her, including the hundreds of fans she made at our annual Baby Goats & Brews fundraiser.  Delaney can always be found in her chair, aka her throne, chewing her cud from around 10:30am on each and every day.  She is never far from her twin sister Kate, they love to conquer the big kid playground, show sass to Nicky and Nitro and spend time doing their absolute favorite thing, curling up in a lap for cuddles.  Delaney is beautiful and sweet and kind, the belle of the ball, the perfect little queen.

Delaney soaking up all the attention at our annual Baby Goats & Brews fundraiser

Homecoming King: Keegan

Everyone loves Keegan!  This handsome, full of personality Mini Lamancha was born to slaughterhouse rescue Harper.  He is quite the charmer with his good looks and busy, playful, curious personality.  He may be little but he is fearless and confident yet a soft hearted snuggle bug too.  Just don't try and take his "throne," that galvanized bucket is all his!  

That adorable Keegan face

Most likely to become an International Ambassador: Grayson

Grayson, always such a sweet, happy boy

Grayson was one of the first bottle babies of the season.  He loves his twin brother Gavin and the other bottle babies in his crew but you will often also find him as an honorary member of one of the families at BGC.  Some days, he is in the middle of the cuddle puddle of Nora & her triplets and other days he's paling around with Georgia & her boys.  He easily works his way into any group or family dynamic with his calm and gentle demeanor, he is accepted and adored by everyone. 

Grayson hanging out with Nora & her triplets

Grayson & Asher, one of Georgia's boys

Most Athletic: Dash

Play structures: Conquered.  Tables: Conquered.  Car: Conquered.  Chairs, benches....well you get the idea.  Dash arrived at just a few days old and hit the ground running, jumping, climbing and moving, moving, moving.  The kid certainly lived up to his name!  

Busy, busy Dash

Best Ears: Tannin

His picture says it all.  Best.  Ears.  Ever!  

Tannin with those AMAZING ears

Best Kisser:  Augustus 

Augustus loves to give out kisses

Kissy, kissy, kissy, Augustus loves nothing more than to give kisses and they are well received!  He has the Saanen sweetness down to a t!    

Best shoulder to cry on: Kimba

The Saanen breed is known for their gentle, loving and very laid back nature.  Kimba is the true definition of a Saanen and he was easily a volunteer favorite this year.  When someone was having a bad day or just needed some extra love, they went to hug Kimba.  He brought sunshine to every day and is doing exactly that in his amazing forever home.   

Kimba

Miss Congeniality: Nya

Nya is just too cute! And she knows it!

The last of the babies born to our Holiday Buns in the Oven rescues, Nya was born to Panda, the youngest and smallest of the group.  From the minute she was born Nya was a standout.  Not only is she adorable, she is just as friendly and as sweet as can be.  She is a one little girl welcoming committee who can make anyone smile.  She can often be found in the feeder at the main rescue, she crawls in and oversees breakfast, lunch and dinner time activities.  Such a little doll she is! 

Cutest Couple: Zuri and Tez

Zuri & Tez

Sister and brother to BGC's permanent residents, Nicky & Nitro, we knew we were in for lots of entertainment with these two little Lamanchas.  Zuir & Tez shared an incredibly strong and heartwarming bond just like their big brothers.  They were always together and did everything together, in sync and with such gusto.  They were, of course, adopted together and now have a forever family with 2 young boys who are twins as well.  Winning at twinning!  

Zuri, such personality and sass

Most likely to be a surf bum living in a beach town: Kramer

Known as the "golden boy," Kramer was one of the most laid back, go with the flow kids of the season.  His unique coloring and good looks made him a head turner for sure but he was never one to be phased by all the attention. 

Kramer, the Golden Boy

Most likely to still live with their parents at the 20 year reunion: Poppy

Poppy loved being a house baby!

Being a single lamb in the bitter cold temperatures of last winter meant Poppy was a house baby.  Poppy LOVED being a house baby.  Her transition to the barn was a slow one and given the choice, she would still be living in the house.  After months of helping Poppy learn she was a farm animal, she is doing fabulous in her forever home that she shares with a number of other rescue grads including Esther the sheep.

The Comeback Kid: Norman

Without question, Norman the calf's recovery was the comeback story of the year.  Rescued from the hands of a meat broker, just minutes after being purchased at a livestock auction when he was just a few days old, Norman became the first calf we have rescued in years.  As calves sent through auction at such a young age often do, Norman became sick after that experience, very sick.  His recovery took a level of investment from Barbara and our vets that was nothing short of all consuming. Norman not only survived, which was a true miracle, he thrived!  This beautiful boy is now living his very best life at a lavender farm east of the mountains.  A comeback for the ages!   

Norman is now living his best life at his wonderful forever home!

Most likely to be world renowned in their profession: GiGi, a future Cirque du Solei performer & Tatonka, a future interior designer:

I'm not quite sure there are twins more FULL of unique personality than GiGi & Tatonka.  Born at the rescue this spring to Ladybug, a quiet and kept to herself little mama, these two set the bar for big personalities.  Gigi, the performer, is always in motion, big motion.  Jumping, twirling, spinning and giving me a heart attack (and laugh) with the acrobatics she attempts on a daily basis.  While brother Tatonka is the first one up every morning, the early riser, who rearranges every plastic pool and every chair, each and every morning before everyone else gets up.  He likes his things where he likes them, the way he likes them. There isn't a doubt in my mind that these two could conquer the world if they wanted to.   

GiGi is a handful of busy Lamancha antics but she's as sweet as can be if she can be persuaded to stay still for even a second

Tatonka

Team Diva:

Another unique aspect to this year's baby season was the number of baby girls we had the opportunity to save alongside the boys.  Typically we only get to save little girls who are "flawed" but this year, because the dairy had so many babies, we were given the opportunity to save a number of baby girls.  These little ladies added sugar & spice and everything nice to the baby group dynamics this year.  

Little Miss London

Eliza

Marlowe

Farrah & Butter Bean

Izzy

Kate

101 babies saved, such an amazing number!  We couldn't do it without our amazing foster homes who help us during the biggest rushes early in baby season.  Once again adopters Jerrinne, Heidi, Jane & Kelsey Creek Farm stepped up to foster and help us raise some of these little ones.  And our rockstar team of volunteers who help make it all happen with last minute Baby Goat Rescue Road Trips (once again Rohana set a new record for how many times she made the long drive) to helping with the day to day chores of the farms, pregnant mama checks and everything that goes into bottle raising so many babies each year.  And although we had to make emergency phone calls to him far less this season, Dr P, as always, is our go-to guy.  Honestly, I don't know what we would do without Dr P.  I don't want to think about it, so as far as we're concerned, he will never retire.  Not ever.  

All in all, it's been a relatively "easy" baby season compared to the challenges and heartbreak of baby season last year.  Every year is different.  Even though this season may not have been as challenging as some seasons past, to say were exhausted is an understatement.  We often receive compliments about how strong we are to do this work.  Strength doesn't have anything to do with it.  It's about love.  Only love can make you let something consume your life the way this does, every day, of every season.  Only love can let you say yes to saving so many knowing that every morning we wake up, every morning we go into the barn, we may find a sick or dying baby.  We simply can't save them all but love makes us try.  It is love that keeps you going when there just isn't time to eat, sleep or even take a shower most days. It's love that makes it all worth it.  Find your love, it's a powerful thing.  We've found ours.  It's in all these sweet little lives we have the privilege of saving every year.

So here's to an amazing 2018 rescued baby season!   We can't wait to see what 2019 rescued baby season has in store.....which don't remind us, will start again in just a few short months.  

Ruby and the Makings of an Accidental Milkmaid

Blog written by Sarah Klapstein

Part of my morning and evening chores routine, every day, now includes milking a goat.  Milking twice a day, by hand, in the pasture.  Something I never saw myself doing.  Never say never, I should know this well by now.  A few years ago I taught myself to milk with one of the first goats to come to BGC. Since then I had only tried my hand at it again a few times when the babies born at BGC this spring couldn't keep up with their former dairy mama's milk production.  Now, it's second nature and another thing added to the seemingly never ending daily to do list.  I certainly don't need anything else added to the daily to do list but there isn't anything I wouldn't do for Ruby.  

There are some goats that instantly grab a hold of me.  Jitterbug, Evangeline, Renata, they are perfect examples of goats who instantly made their mark on my heart, and now,  there's Ruby.  There are some goats that come into the rescue that need us in a different way.  Yes, they all depend on us for their daily care and love but there are some that need more.  More comfort, more focus, more care.  The girls before Ruby that had that same hold on me, they all needed me more, just as Ruby does.  

Ruby was a part of our Golden Girls rescue although technically, Ruby isn't quite in her golden years just yet.  Ruby is 6 years old and this year she had to have a C section to deliver her big, giant baby.  When I first met Ruby she was just a few weeks post-op and not in the best shape.  Her surgery scar was still very apparent but she was thin, oh so thin, her coat was rough and she walked oddly.  Her body had clearly suffered some trauma and although she could get around just fine, something clearly wasn't right.  The dairy knew she shouldn't be bred again so asked if we would take her along with the Golden Girls.  When I went to meet the Golden Girls I was greeted at the gate by Ruby and she never left my side, looking at me with those sweet, sweet eyes and that trademark Ober head tilt.  In that moment I knew, we were taking her and she had to come to BGC.  

Her trust in me was immediate and her affection was, and still is, over the top.  Not only is she like a puppy following my every step and wanting snuggles, she loves to lick me.  Especially on my face and especially when I'm milking her.  I wasn't planning on having to milk her, in fact, I didn't know the dairy still was until she had been home a few days and wouldn't stop crying.  She wanted to be milked and no wonder, her udder was huge.  And so it began.  

Yes, I could let her dry up but that process wouldn't be easy given what we're feeding her to help her gain the weight she so desperately needs and not to mention, we need the milk. Between our 2 farms we are feeding 4-5 gallons of raw goats milk to our bottle babies everyday so why not milk her?  And why do I milk her in the pasture where Yumi's babies use me and Ruby as a jungle gym, yank mouthfuls of hair out of my ponytail and try and steal sips from Ruby non-stop during the process?  Well, getting into the stanchion is a struggle for her due to what Dr. P believes is a spinal injury.

Dr. P was out not long after Ruby arrived so I asked him to take a look at her.  He had me walk her in the pasture so he could watch her.  She often drags her back feet along, Dr P noted that she didn't lift her back legs past her hip joint.  He felt her muscles and pointed out how muscular she was in her front versus her back.  What does it all mean?  She likely sustained a spinal injury during kidding the year before.  That forces her to lean forward, carrying more weight than normal in her front and her inability to fully move her back legs properly.  That also explains why she had to have a C section this year and is unable to continue to safely be bred.  Thankfully, her pregnancy test came back negative, we tested her too, just to be sure.

Ruby is on medication to help ease any pain or discomfort the injury causes her, she's likely been living with it for over a year.  She gets around well though, she has even started standing on the gate to cry for me if I'm 5 minutes late to feed her grain or if I've switched up the routine of when I now let Yumi's kids out for a playdate with the bottle kids so I can milk Ruby in peace.  She is still quite needy but even on the longest, hardest days, the days where I just simply can't get it all done before 9pm and still leave things unattended to, even on those days, I don't mind.  I always make time to not only milk her but to sit with her and give her cheek scratches, let her lick my face and have sweet conversations with me.  What I wouldn't give to know what she's saying.  She has affectionately become known as "Aunt Ruby" as Yumi's kids absolutely adore her.  Keiko & YoYo climb on her, go out grazing with her, eat with her, it's really quite sweet.  The bottle babies have taken to her as well when she spends time with them, she can get them access to branches they can't get on their own.  She is so patient and kind with them, it makes my heart hurt that she didn't get a baby of her own to keep....but those days are thankfully in her past.  

We can never erase their past.  Sometimes, no matter what we do, no matter how much money we are willing to spend, no matter the time, energy and heart we're willing to commit, it isn't always enough to make it better.  Luckily for Ruby, her injury is one she can live a long, healthy life with and she is now somewhere that her health will never be at risk for a baby or for milk. 

This rescue life has made me many things, a milkmaid was certainly unexpected but every time I milk Ruby and she turns around to lick my face while I do, I am reminded that some of the best things are the unexpected things.  

Baby Bug Birthday

Blog written by Sarah Klapstein

Witnessing new life be born into this world never gets old.  It is truly magical.  Even more so when the mamas giving birth are rescues.  When the babies born get to be born into the love and safety of the rescue.  When the mothers get to keep and raise their babies.  When their babies get a life that so many just like them don't get the opportunity and privilege of having.  Even more special when the mama is so close to my heart.  This day, it was a day I had been waiting for.  A day when Ladybug and I both got to come full circle with her story with a little family all her own. 

I am so happy Feather was here to capture these moments, as nerve wracking as they were.  It was not an easy birth for Ladybug, a little mama with 2 big babies meant she needed assistance to bring her little ones into the world.  At the end of the day, she had two healthy, beautiful, big, robust babies.  Babies that mean so much to me and to her.  I love this little Bug family more than I can even begin to try and express.  

It was a pretty incredible Baby Bug Birthday, thank you Feather for capturing the magic!

Renata

Blog written by Sarah Klapstein

"Life doesn't have to be perfect to be wonderful" -Annette Funicello

I remember the day Renata & her babies arrived like it was yesterday.  It was the end of summer, both our farms packed with the kids of the busiest rescued baby season we have ever had, goats returning from foster, a recent slaughterhouse rescue and lots of goats via urgent owner surrender.   But when I got the message from a dairy "interested in a mom and her 1 week old boys?  She has a dropped udder"  I had that all too familiar feeling, she belonged with us.  

We asked one of our amazing foster homes if they could take them in, they agreed and we made arrangements to pick Mama & babies up the next day.  We knew that without us, the chances of Mama and her babies ending up in the hands of a meat buyer was high.  That morning they told me one of the babies was recovering from FKS (floppy kid syndrome) but that he was improving.  I had a feeling that it was likely they would need to come to one of the rescue's farms so we could monitor and treat (if need be) the FKS.  Barbara called once she picked up the family and not only did Mama goat have a dropped udder, she was in rough shape with an infected abscess on a foot.  So to BGC she was coming.  I immediately shuffled goats and had a shelter and pasture ready for mama & her babies when they arrived.  

I opened the truck and my heart swelled while tears filled my eyes, poor mama was a mess but immediately,  I loved her.  She talked, sniffed my face and nuzzled her babies.  Her udder was literally dragging on the ground.  Covered in manure and muck, it broke my heart.  She was unsure of what was happening, but she trusted me as I led her to her new pasture with her babies happily bouncing behind her.  That was the beginning of a special bond between Renata & I.  

I spent hours that day in her pasture letting her get used to me and her new surroundings.  I snuggled her babies who were as friendly as bottle raised babies and watched them jump and spin and run freely in a big open space for the first time.  Renata would often come over and sniff my face, talk to me and let me pet her.  She struggled to walk.  Her foot clearly bothering her and her dropped and very full udder causing her to have to kick one leg out and around when she walked.  Laying down was hard for her as she had to constantly reposition her udder so she could get comfortable.  Her babies had no problem nursing though and sweet little Duncan, thankfully, had no lingering FKS symptoms.  

In the weeks that followed Renata had multiple visits with our vet Dr. P.  He removed, as best he could, the infected growth on her foot.  We discussed an udder removal once the boys were of weaning age and what that would entail.  Renata started to gain weight, get a shiny healthy coat and truly embrace her new lease on life.  She had big open spaces to roam, a stall all her own for her and her babies at night with a kiddie pool full of dry soft bedding to sleep in which quickly became a family favorite spot.  She received supplemental feeding which at first was an acquired taste which is hard to believe now and she begs for and scarfs down her grain and pellets everyday.  

Over time, her udder has shrunk considerably and we no longer are having to consider an udder removal. She had been getting around great until about a week ago when she started favoring her once infected foot again.  Earlier this week, Dr. P came to see her.  Unfortunately the infected area is growing back slowly.  Sometimes no matter how much is taken out, we just can't get it all but cutting away at it.  The infection isn't spreading, it is localized in a toe.  What this means is that we will have to amputate her toe.  A procedure we are not new to.  A few years back we rescued an older goat from a slaughterhouse, Faye, who had a similar foot infection due to standing in mud, muck and unsanitary conditions and Dr. P performed the same surgery.  What this means for Renata is a few weeks bandaged and needing dry ground to stand on which in the PNW is near impossible to come by unless we keep her in a stall of the barn.  We're currently working through the logistics of it all but we will work with Dr. P to plan the best time to proceed in the coming weeks.  The amputation won't impact her mobility once she has healed but it will ensure she remains infection and pain free.  

I was saddened by the news.   Not because it will impact Renata negatively but because there is still more that needs to be done along her journey to get her to where we want her to be.   Despite still needing another surgery, she has come so far.  I can't forget that. Her transformation the past few months has been amazing and inspiring.  

I struggle to put into words my love and adoration for Renata and the bond her and I share.  I look at her and can't help but smile.  She is so happy in her new life and that, that makes me so unbelievably happy.  There is something so endearing about her.  About her story.  At first glance, her physical "imperfections" are apparent; her dropped udder, her square face with bottom teeth that often stick out, her unicorn horn scur, the bad feet that she will forever have to live with to some degree.  But to me, she is absolutely perfect.  She is an amazing mother, she adores her boys and they adore her.  At 5 months old and already 1/2 her size, she is still nursing them.  The 3 still nap and sleep in a small kiddie pool together all snuggled up.  For the first time in her life, she gets to keep her babies, it is apparent she is relishing in it, not something we often see from former dairy goats.  She loves being a mother and all that entails.  She has integrated well into the big herd here at BGC and can even be seen playing just like a kid from time to time.  It is truly the best feeling to see her jump and frolic like her babies do.  She loves her life.  I love spoiling her and giving her that life she otherwise would have never had.  Despite all she has been through, she is happy.  

Her road hasn't been an easy one and there are still more bumps ahead to navigate but all I want is for her to be happy.  I'll take care of the rest. 

Renata, a few weeks after she arrived, post suregery #1

Renata & her boys Duke & Duncan

Baby Duke & Duncan

Happy baby Duke in the Christmas Day snow! 

Family nap time

I LOVE this face! 

Renata today

Norman

Barbara and Norman

This blog post written by PSGR Founder & Director Barbara Jamison

I wondered how much plastic I would have to put down on my kitchen floor to bring Norman the calf into my house for the night? Making yet another trek to the barn to care for him at one a.m. on a bitter cold night, it wasn’t for Norman that I was toying with this idea, it was for me.  Norman was warm and tucked into a bedded “hot box”  in a stall but  on day three of round the clock care, I was fast approaching  the all too common “Rescue The Rescuer” status. Three days of little sleep, no shower, unbrushed hair stuffed into a stocking cap and thermal overalls thrown over pajamas—I was not a pretty site.  After seeing how weak he was, I realized making the journey from stall to house would be asking too much of him.  So Norman stayed put and I continued the back and forth from house to barn and back again every two to three hours. The “auction calf vortex” is powerful and depleting.

I quit rescuing calves from auctions 15 years ago.  The first time I naively bought two Jersey calves at auction for $5 each, I turned to the farmer sitting next to me and asked him what I needed to do for them when I got home. “Dig a hole’” he deadpanned. But he was right as one of the two died within a few days and the struggle to keep the other alive went on for several grueling weeks before he stabilized. I rescued more “auction” Jersey calves over the next few years and experienced the heartbreak of over 50% mortality. All the meds, vet intervention and love in the world cannot save them if they do not get good colostrum at birth. Even with colostrum, being taken from their mothers at a day old and hauled to a cootie-filled livestock auction doesn’t help either. The deck is stacked against them and their well-meaning rescuers from day one, especially the more fragile Jerseys.

Norman sold for $10 at the livestock auction. As I was leaving, I saw the man who bought him re-selling him in the parking lot after the auction ended. To make an extra $10, he was reselling him to a livestock hauler for $20 who was going to load him into a stock trailer already filled with full grown cows and haul him to yet another auction the next day. All with the intent of making a little more money.  Five dollars more? Maybe ten? Such a paltry sum for a precious life. It was sickening to watch the deal being made. With so many goats and sheep already at the rescue, warning bells were clanging in my head.  But I bought him from the man anyway for $20 before the hauler got him. 

Driving home with the little calf, all those memories of 15 years ago conveniently suppressed, I thought to myself, “Seriously, he looks pretty healthy. How bad can it get?”

It is day 10 and with the “shot-out-of-a-cannon” feeling in full force, I find myself sitting on a stool in Norman’s stall at 2 a.m.—overwhelmed with frustration as his health plummets .  Unable to stand, eat or even hold his head up—he is in dire condition. After the first four days of cuteness overload with Norman playful and active, it started on day five. A little diarrhea; then a fever. More diarrhea followed—more fever, then full on malaise, weakness and unwillingness to eat as little Norman struggled to fight off the inevitable viruses auction calves contract. Bitter cold and snow didn’t help. Multiple vet visits followed involving, catheters, antibiotics, fluids, and an endless mix of meds. He is a limp noodle and I struggle to hold his head up to tube feed milk into his bony body. The trek from house to barn and back continues nonstop with all the goats and sheep giving me the stink eye as I pass them by on my way to tend to Norman.  Likewise the farm dogs who are peeved and also feeling neglected. Trying to unwind for a few hours in front of the TV is unfulfilling because I know Norman is outside feeling like crap. 

Norman's ICU area

Day 13: The walk to Norman’s stall every morning now is a dreaded event. This morning is no different as I brace myself for what I might find. To lose them is soul crushing, especially after a protracted battle.

Norman taking comfort from a volunteer

There is always an element of disbelief that with all the meds and care, sometimes you still cannot save them. But there are wins too—so you keep trying.

 I swing open the stall door and a pair of big beautiful brown calf eyes are looking straight at me. His head is up!  He is trying to stand! It is a “Eureka!” moment. I want to jump in the air and click my heels together with joy but am too tired. So I visualize myself doing it.

As I write this on Day 16, Norman’s health continues to improve dramatically. He is drinking his bottle on his own again, and is up and roaming about.  It is time for a hot shower and sleep for me and for Norman, a long, easy life.....go NORMAN! 

Norman today

Filling her shoes

Blog written by Sarah Klapstein

"Give a girl the right shoes and she can conquer the world" -Marilyn Monroe 

Little miss Jitterbug will be off to her forever home next week.  I can't believe the day is actually almost upon us.  Adoption days are always bittersweet, some more than others. Some kids just make an imprint so big that it can never truly be filled.  But the circle continues.  It must.

Last year, Millie came to the rescue at just a few days old after being abandoned in a box at the end of a dead end street.  She became the queen of BGC and stole the hearts of people all over the world with her heartbreaking story and sweet face.  She stole mine the second I held her in my arms.  Something I did every day for months.  When she left us for her forever home, the void was noticeable but the circle continued as it always does and once again the farm started to fill with newborn babies and a new little girl made her mark this season,  Jitterbug.

Jitterbug's time with us was first filled with recovery from illness and living in the house early on which creates an even deeper bond.  Sick babies are woven into every minute of every day, the care of a sick baby, the worry about a sick baby, everything revolves around saving that baby.  A month of touch and go and we did exactly that, we saved Bug.  She was my shadow.  She wanted to be with me and held by me at all times.  Fast forward a few months and she isn't nearly as dependent on me.  Weaning babies does that.  They become more independent.  I am still "mom", she still answers every time I call her name and will still sit in my lap and chew her cud if she's not busy browsing, playing or putting the boys in their place but she doesn't need me like she used to.  And that's ok.  That's a good thing.  Bug is her own little lady now, she's sassy, healthy, and so full of love and ready to take on the new world she will embark on next week.  

These days, I have a new shadow emerging.  Evangeline.  A few weeks ago I went to pick up a number of does from a dairy and they had two kids they were also looking to re-home, one who was emaciated and clearly dealing with a high parasite load.  We could leave her there they said but one look at her and those big, curious, innocent eyes and that was absolutely not an option.  This girl was coming home with me.  She needed a lot of attention and care and she has received just that.  Her parasites have now cleared and her personality is finally starting to truly emerge.  Just as Bug once was, she is always with me.  Yes, she depends on me for her 2x a day bottle but I am also her comfort, her safety.  She is still learning her way in the world of BGC and she relies on me the way Millie & Bug both did as they learned to come into their own. 

Just as Jitterbug filled Millie's shoes, Evangeline is filling Jitterbug's.  They are some big shoes to fill but she will do just that, of that I am sure.  

Millie

Jitterbug

Evangeline

Class of 2017 Rescued Kids!

Blog written by Sarah Klapstein

It's been a record breaking rescued baby season.  116 babies saved this year.  116! So many babies! Believe me, we feel it.  It's been a very long and sometimes very challenging rescued baby season but it has been a truly remarkable one.  It all started 8 months ago with little man Charlie Brown and it's been going strong ever since.  Our youngest kids are only a few weeks old so even though there is light at the end of the tunnel, we're still not there yet.  It has been 8 months filled with countless baby goat rescue road trips, hundreds of gallons of milk, bottle prepping, bottle heating, bottle feeding, bottle washing.  Baby goats everywhere, running, jumping, playing and snuggling.  And now over 1/2 of those kids are in wonderful forever homes with incredibly loving new families.  It's why we do what we do.  These faces, these lives.  Each with their very own distinct personalities from the moment they arrive.  They all make a lasting impression on us and our farms.  It's hard to narrow it down to just a small group for each year's yearbook.  It was tough with so many stand out kids this year!

Homecoming Queen: Jitterbug

Jitterbug

"And though she be but little, she is fierce” -Shakespeare

Sassy, sweet and everything in between.  Jitterbug has adoring fans all over the world and of course she does, how could you not love this little girl.  Her story is one of the wins of this season coming back from illness and beating the odds.  She has been the heart of BGC this season, forever our little Queen B.  

Valentino

Homecoming King: Valentino

Valentino, the head turner.  Not only is this boy handsome and charming, he is incredibly sweet and was one of the biggest loves of the season.  He is now holding court in an amazing forever home with a number of his buddies

Finn

Most likely to fall asleep in class: Finn

When Finn arrived at the rescue at just 12 hours old, it was dark and below freezing overnight so he got a night of house baby status.  He immediately fell asleep on my chest and slept soundly the entire night.  We quickly learned this kid can sleep anywhere and everywhere.  Finn has been known for falling asleep standing up, literally.  If you can’t find Finn, just check a swimming pool or a corner of the barn, he’s likely sound asleep completely oblivious to the world around him.

Moxie

The comeback kids: Moxie & Matteo

There were a number of comeback kids this season but none more dramatic than Moxie & Matteo.  Moxie & her brother Chance were born at a local slaughterhouse.  Although we were able to rescue them hours after birth and rescue their mother as well, their mother was in such poor condition that she rejected them.  After a roller coaster of health issues the first few weeks, Chance passed away.  But Moxie, she lived up to her name.  This girl is tough and a true survivor.

Matteo

Matteo arrived as a breeder cull baby and started having health issues not long after he arrived.  Name an issue, he had it.  He was such a trooper as we treated each ailment as we wondered how much more his little body could take.  Well, he proved to be one of the miracles of the season and this kid is now going strong

Valedictorian: Lance

Lance, the smarty pants and one of the most personable goats you will ever meet. He has the brains and the looks and is sure to make his mark on this world

Lance

Most likely to win the lottery and lose the ticket: Spike

Oh, Spike.  He would be lost in this world without his girl Jitterbug.  Even then, you’ll often find Bug off doing goat things and Spike still a bit confused by the world but we love this little guy and all his “Nubian-ness”  Better give those lottery tickets to Bug!

Spike

Teachers Pet: Max

Max.  Those eyes, that head tilt, Max can get away with just about anything and trust me, he does.  He may be a bit spoiled but how can you resist?  Little Max knows just how to work his charm to get what he wants most in the world, snuggly lap time. 

Max

Juliette

Most likely to be famous: Juliette

Juliette, the star.  We knew she was something special the moment we rescued her from a slaughterhouse just hours after she was born there.  She had the face and personality of a star.  She is now in the bright lights as a spokesgoat for Seattle Goat Yoga and has even made her first TV appearance

Most likely to win an Olympic medal: Team Ober

Team Ober, the “ober-achievers” Ahead of the game in athletics and just about everything else, these kids work together as a team unlike any other group of kids.  There is no play structure they can’t conquer in record time not to mention their lightening fast speed and gymnastic ability on the BGC playground.  This crew is gold medal worthy each and every day

Most likely to still live in their parents basement after graduation: Charlie

My little man Charlie Brown.  He would have lived in my house forever if he could.  He arrived shortly before Christmas after being rejected by his mom.  A single baby in freezing temperatures meant one thing, full time house baby.  When Charlie finally got a buddy, he was so reluctant to move outside.  So much so that 4 baby goats were living in the house until it warmed up and Charlie started to embrace life in the barn and outdoors.  He eventually did but I’m pretty sure he’d go right back to his lap goat on the couch status if he could.

Henry & Haven

Cutest Couple: Henry & Haven

Brother & sister, twins and the best of friends!  These two could always be found together, Haven leading the way.  They were adopted together and will always know the love and comfort of one another.

The black sheep: Jackson

He fits the description, quite literally.  We rescued Jackson from a slaughterhouse as a newborn and he has fit right in with all the goat kids.

Jackson

Joshua

Most likely to win a Nobel Peace prize: Joshua

They just don’t come much sweeter than Joshua.  He was born with underdeveloped eyes but that didn’t slow him down one bit.  They say eyes are the windows to the soul.  Joshua’s was certainly gentle, genuine and caring.  

In Memory:

Some years are more challenging than others.  2017 was one of those years.  To the little ones whose time with us was far too short, you were loved, your lives mattered and you will always be in our hearts and memories.  Their time with us, no matter how short, helps shape our farms, our rescue, our mission.  They left this world knowing so much love and the very best care.  They live on in all the little ones who did beat the odds and are thriving today.  

A special thank you must be said to our go-to guy, our vet, Dr. P.  He has gone above and beyond for us countless times this baby season.  Answering calls at all hours, fitting us in when honestly it was near impossible and even taking home a sick baby and getting up with him every 2 hours.  He has saved us, and these little ones so many times this season.  

And to our amazing volunteers who step up in big ways to help us during this crazy season every year with transport, feeding, chores, etc.  It takes a village to do what we do.  

By the time the youngest kids are weaned this year, the 2018 rescued baby season will be just around the corner. Hard to believe! Rescued baby season is crazy but it sure is worth it!  

Motherhood

Blog written by Sarah Klapstein

I am often asked if I have children.  Asked in a sort of assuming that I do sort of way.  It's what commonly  happens when you are a woman in your mid to late 30s, people often assume you have children.  I do have children, mine just have 4 legs instead of 2.

When I was younger I thought by the time I was at this point in my life I would have a few children, human children that is and I would be well into motherhood by now.  Well, I am, it just looks different than what I imagined a decade ago.

I am currently a mom to close to 40 rescued goats at Baby Goat Central, most no more than a few months old.  I am responsible for their every need. I feed them, clean up after them, negotiate with them, deal with tantrums, break up arguments and worry non-stop about their health and happiness.  I have been pooped on, spit up on, changed countless diapers and stayed up all night with sick babies only to catch a little sleep when they do.   I arrange care for them while I'm at work or want to be away from the farm for an evening.  I ask our vet a million questions like a first time mom at pediatricians appointments.  Neighbors bring me meals as I can barely fit in a shower most days during rescued baby season.  I have watched some be born into this world and I have held some in my arms as they have left this world.  I love them beyond words.  They are my world and I am theirs.  They are my kids.  And I am honored to be their mom. 

Neverland

“So come with me, where dreams are born and time is never planned. Just think of happy things and your heart will fly on wings, forever, in Never Neverland!” –Peter Pan

Never say never, it’s a lesson we’re taught early in life and it is one that could not ring more true than in rescue work. I had so many “nevers” in my head when we opened Baby Goat Central. Like many things, living rescue work 24/7 is something you simply cannot truly understand until you do it. One of my nevers, I would never have baby goats in my house.

I am a bit on the type A side, I like everything clean, organized and in its place. Farm life and type A personalities don’t go hand in hand, something I learned quickly and have adjusted to a little more slowly. A week after Nicky and Nitro moved in with me at BGC we rescued two newborn Oberhaslis and with temps below freezing overnight, I got them home and immediately asked Barbara, “they have to sleep in the house don’t they?” The answer was of course, yes.

They lived in the kitchen overnight for a few weeks and once or twice slipped through the baby gate for some cuddle time on the couch. Last February, a few more spent a few nights in the kitchen and newborn baby Lamancha, Gobi, was curled up on my lap while I watched TV and had a glass of wine after the first big dairy rescue of last season. I thought that would be the extent of it. But again, never say never. In December, baby Charlie Brown moved in, full time house baby. A few weeks later, we had a friend for him, baby Rigby. Temperatures were still too cold for babies in the barn at night. Last week, baby Lamanchas Bowie & Bennett arrived and well, it’s still cold. Very cold. So from about 6pm-7am every day, I have 4 baby goats living in my house.

Never say never

Charlie was an ideal house baby, he was quiet, calm and loved nothing more than to sleep curled up in my lap for hours. He slept in a playpen in my bedroom at night and never made a peep. Around the time Rigby arrived Charlie was more active and getting into more around the house. Everything had to be baby goat proofed. Having a baby goat in your house is a mix between the baby goat and a toddler and a puppy. They find every single little thing they can and in their mouth it goes. When Charlie learned to jump on my furniture, it was a game changer. My mom asked why I didn’t keep him confined to the kitchen or in a pen. Well, you answer that when you’re sitting there with an adorable little baby goat face staring at you and crying because they just want to be where you are. Charlie had the run of the house.

Life with lap cats and lap goats

When Rigby arrived I quickly started transitioning them to spending the daytime in the barn with time in their day pasture and Rigby loved it, Charlie, not so much. It’s been an adjustment for him but he is finally embracing it. At night I couldn’t all of a sudden confine Charlie who had spent weeks going where he pleased when I was home so Charlie and Rigby had run of the house. Night one Rigby learned how to climb on all the furniture. He was such a big baby that even the biggest diaper size barely fit. Lessons in preventing and managing diaper malfunctions were learned quickly.

When the Lamanchas arrived last week we luckily had received all our goodies from the baby goat shower and we had these great soft indoor play pens. The baby Lamanchas were all set up in there but it didn’t take but more than a few hours before I let them out to play and my house had 4 crazy energetic, active and adorable babies running about.

Night one, embracing house baby status

It’s not all fun and games, it’s a lot of cleaning and diaper changes and laundry. The evenings of hours curled up on the couch together are over, they are 4 busy babies who after turning the house upside down and mouthing everything they can, love to snuggle with each other, just as it should be. I will admit there are times I have just wanted to scream and then just simply cry. My house is often a disaster, I can’t do anything without baby goats underfoot and it sometimes just feels impossible to keep up on it all. But these sweet little babies, they can always ground you. They are the reminders of why we do all of this, why we let them take over our lives. They are safe with us. They are loved and cherished. They get a chance at a life that so many baby goats don’t get. And if living in the house some until our weather finally warms up a bit, then so be it.

It’s been over a month since Charlie first moved in and tonight, for the first time, I felt somewhat normal. After the volunteers left today all was in order outside and the babies were spending a rainy afternoon in their stalls in the barn so I went in the house, cranked up the music, lit some amazing candles made by lovely neighbor Devon and cleaned and baked and cooked and felt a little more like myself than I have in a while. The babies came in, had their bottles and went to bed, it was blissful. 4 baby goats happy and sleeping warm and peaceful while I made dinner.

The peace and quiet was short lived as all four were up and about an hour later and will likely be awake and busy until after all the lights are turned out for the night. This, this is my new normal. Smack in the middle of Neverland. I keep saying I can’t wait until they’re moved out and it will be nice to put my house back together but I will really miss them. It’s true, there is a magic that lives in Never Neverland.

It's still Charlie's house

Letting Go

"Don't cry because it's over, smile because it happened" -Dr. Seuss

Things are a lot quieter at Baby Goat Central these days. Most of the 2016 rescued babies have found their forever homes. The ones still here have been weaned and are now living as one herd with Nicky and Nitro. They're learning to be big kids and growing up fast. The bottle feeding supplies and baby playgrounds are all in storage for the winter and the quiet, I'll admit, it's hard to get used to. It certainly isn't boring around here, Nicky and Nitro make sure of that but it's certainly calmer. We have a routine, something you simply just can't establish for more than a few days at a time during baby season. Change is the name of the game all spring and summer. Now, we get a bit of a "break" before it all starts again in a few short months. But the goings here, they're getting harder. Everyone always asks how I can let them go? How do I do it? Raise these little ones from days, if not hours old and then let them go? There are times, like this morning, I wonder that too.

Today, two of Baby Goat Central's favorite kids of the year were off to their forever home. I always hate to use the word favorite, because I truly love every little one that comes through BGC but there are some I get more attached to than others. P&B, I was very, very attached to and most of BGC's volunteers will tell you, P&B were their favorites. How could you not fall in love with these sweet little lamanchas with the most amazing eyelashes? How could you not be charmed by Petrie's head tilt when you talked to him or by Beaker's excited tail wag every time you touched him? As the BGC herd has gotten smaller, P&B came into their own, their personality's flourished. They started mimicking Nicky and Nitro in all their goofy ways, I always say "Lamancha see, Lamancha do." It was so true with these kids. They loved to snuggle and play and were defiently "mama's boys."

As one of BGC's volunteers says, we're selfishly sad. She is so right. I am sad for me, that I don't get to be greeted by their bright eyes and wagging tails each morning, that I won't get Beaker snuggles to start every day, that this little farm just won't feel the same without them. That Nicky and Nitro won't have their playmates anymore. Watch out baby Obers, you're next in line for that role! But just as I was for all the others that have left, I am so happy that they have a home all their own and such an amazing one at that. As soon as we met their new family and saw the amazing home they've created for them, we knew, this was P&B's home. It was their turn.

It is hard to see them go. It's as simple as that. From the time they arrive, I become mom. They are my babies. But there are so many more babies that need saving and that time starts again in just a few short months. So yes, I shed some tears today but mostly, I smiled because my life and the life of BGC was so much better because P&B got to be raised here. I drove 6 hours round trip shortly after they were born to save their lives and mine has been so much better for it. Now, I get to share that love and happiness with another family.

Among all the comings and goings there is one constant, Nicky and Nitro, aka "The Minis." Part of why I love having adopted these two crazy lamanchas last year is that there are two here that will never leave. "The Minis" thrive on all the activity here, they are the perfect Lamancha ambassadors when adopters visit and I would say they have fully embraced their big brother role. For me, I need those two as much as they need me. They make days like these a little easier.

So how do we do it? Happy endings like the one that happened today. Amazing, loving, invested and excited families adopting our babies and giving them a loving forever home. By placing all of the lives we save each year, we get to save that many more the next year. Every baby that leaves takes a little piece of my heart but seeing how happy their new family was today, makes my heart so full.

Today was bittersweet, adoption days always are. Days like this, it's good to be reminded of the wise words of Dr. Seuss and smile because it happened.

Wilder

"I'll keep you safe, you keep me wild" This guy has my heart

One of the many wonderful things about saving so many animals each year is that I get to fall in love all the time, over and over again. Often, falling in love so frequently comes with it's share of heartbreak. The heartbreak of not being able to save them all. Of not always having the answers. Heartbreak is a reality we have to face, it comes with the territory. When baby Wilder arrived and, shortly after, showed signs of not being 100% healthy, I braced myself.

We were wrapping up an amazing baby season, one that had presented us with very few challenges. Then in our last group of babies, Wilder & Griffey broke the streak. Unfortunately, despite doing everything we and veterinarians possibly could, Griffey's little body was unable to overcome the health issues he was born with. His loss was a hard one. All the while, Wilder had been struggling with issues of his own, a very painful ulcer. Here was this little baby, wanting nothing more than the comfort of milk and his bottle and it was causing him such discomfort.

It took some trial and error to find just what treatment would work best for Wilder, what his body would respond to best. It also took a lot of patience, something I was struggling to find. Wilder and I spent lots of time with him curled up in my arms while I snuggled him and told him I was sorry that he wasn't feeling better. Eating was painful for him and we could not get his digestive system on track. I felt like I was failing him, I just couldn't win. Getting babies over the "hump" when they aren't feeling 100% can be frustrating and draining. It is a challenge to my personality, one that likes lists and plans, to just wait and see how he did and go with the flow of what he was responding to. I was terrified of making a mistake and making it worse. It had been a tough go those few weeks and I needed a win. This little guy and I needed to get over this hurdle. For him. For me. For Griffey. We needed a win.

Wilder (right) and his best buddy Blitz

Every day I grew more and more attached to this little wide eyed baby who was the best possible patient I could ever ask for. He loved his medicine and would often go back to where it was located and look up at it and cry for more. He followed my every step around the farm and still does. Always looking up at me with the sweetest little face inquiring as to whether there were a few more ounces of milk to be had. Every time I sat down he would crawl into my lap, tuck his head into my arms and snuggle, another thing he still does, every day.

It took a good solid week of his most recent treatment regimen, to finally see improvement. I was cautiously optimistic at first. I held my breath every day as I increased his milk intake. He started to gain weight and grow, he wasn't uncomfortable after eating and he was far less excited about his medicine. We were headed uphill. This past week, for the first time, he has started to truly play and frolic like a baby goat. He had tried half hearted efforts so many times before but just never felt good enough to really play. Watching him race around the farm jumping sideways, spinning in the air and dueling with his buddies, it makes my heart swell. My heart is so happy seeing this little guy live his little life without pain and discomfort. Wilder & I, we won this one and my attachment to him is a special one.

Telling me not to get so attached is a waste of breath. I fall in love. I get attached. Yes, I get heartbroken over one loss. Haunted by ones we couldn't save. I get teary eyed when babies I have raised leave for their forever homes and I feel a void on the farm when they're gone. Doing it any other way, to me, would be doing this all wrong. Protecting myself from the heartbreak and sadness that inevitably comes along with this life, would also mean protecting myself from the immense love and joy I get from a once sick baby running, jumping and frolicking without a care in the world. Nothing is worth missing that.

Wilder is now front and center of Team Ober 2.0

The kids of 2016

It's that time of year again, rescued baby season is (finally!) winding down and it's time for our annual yearbook highlights of this year's class of rescued kids! Baby season has been long and steady as 86 kids have made their way through the rescue so far this year. Over 50 have graduated to their forever homes. Our new second rescue farm, Baby Goat Central, welcomed it's first babies in December and continues to house our youngest rescues. A number of kids were raised at our main rescue location and our amazing foster homes, as they do every year, stepped up to help during our busiest times. The kids have been full of personality. From the adventurous and athletic to the quiet and snuggly. All unique and incredibly sweet. They have been nothing short of entertaining, exciting and exhausting. Countless baby goat rescue road trips, hundreds of gallons of milk, endless cleaning, endless bottles, endless baby goat cuddles. All of these things define rescued baby season each and every year. But nothing makes baby season what it is like the kids themselves and what an amazing group we've had!

Most likely to be elected to political office: Lockette This Oberhasli stunner is a standout at BGC. Handsome as can be and full of busy personality, everyone loves Lockette! Including Nicky and Nitro, which, is a rare occurrence. Lockette is the only kid who is allowed by "The Minis" to share their feeder, pool or picnic table, he can often be found curled up napping with one of the big boys. Lockette is always neutral, he never reacts to anyone trying to push him around, he just stays his course and does his thing, looking as regal as could be.

Class Clown: Rama Rama is the runaway winner of this honor. There was never a dull moment with Rama around. He was a big goofball always in the middle of everything, playing and exploring. He loved being the center of attention but he loved nothing more than his little red wagon.

Best eyelashes: Petrie & Beeker In a sea of black and brown goats, Petrie and Beeker stand out from the BGC crowd with their beautiful light coloring and their AMAZING eyelashes. These twin Lamancha boys are the sweetest of the sweetest and when they look at you with those big, bright eyes and bat those beautiful long eyelashes, you can't help but melt.

Cutest Couple: BGC's Farm Dog Addie & "her babies" When we adopted rescue dog Addie we had no idea we were adopting the best baby goat sitter! After spending 5 years in a rescue, Addie finally has a home and family all her own at BGC and she adores her baby goats. They climb on her, nibble on her, launch off of her and sometimes curl up for a nap with her. She is incredibly patient with them and is always concerned if someone isn't where they are supposed to be or isn't feeling 100%. Addie & the kids made for some adorable captured moments this season.

Most likely to get by on their looks: Grady & Ramsey How could you not succeed on looks when you look like this? These two lookers are just so cute! They spend their days taking their cues from Miss Millie, queen bee of their little group and the never miss an opportunity for cheek scratches. Just don't expect them to master the teeter totter or to try climbing the 8' tall A frame like Millie does, they are best at just looking oh so adorable.

Most likely to become a pop star: Jake Nicknamed "Mariah Carey" his nickname really says it all. This kid could sing (aka scream) and that he did! He could be heard for miles around and at all hours of the day and night. Eventually even he got tired of his own voice but for a few days, he really belted it out!

Most likely to walk the runways in Paris: Bronx & Baloo From the day they arrived at BGC at just one day old, these Lamancha/Nubian twins were known as the "super models" as they were all legs! These elegant twins are growing into gorgeous young boys, so tall and graceful.

Best Dressed: Beasley Stylish Beasley....this flashy Lamancha/Nubian cross is a such a beautiful goat! Not to mention one of the sweetest little love bugs too.

Homecoming Queen: Millie The Queen Bee of BGC. Millie was found abandoned in a box along side a teddy bear when she was just a day or two old. This spunky, sassy and snuggly little girl charms everyone who meets her and all the boys adore her.

Homecoming King: Cloud Handsome, quiet and loved by all, Cloud was a head turner at PSGR this year and a friend to all. Gorgeous boy!

In Memory: He may have only been with us a few short weeks but our sweet little baby Griffey brought us so much joy and touched so many lives. He was loved beyond words and his time with us was filled with so much love. He will be remembered always and forever in our hearts. Rest in Peace my little love.

Are we there yet?

BGC's first babies, Beckham & Boom arrived while it was well below freezing overnight so they spent nights in my kitchen

"When baby season is over...." I think I have probably said this line a dozen times a week the past few months with a hundred different ways to end the sentence. The first babies arrived at BGC at the end of December and it's been non stop ever since. BGC's first babies, Beckham & Boom arrived while it was well below freezing overnight so they spent nights in my kitchen

Baby season is unpredicatble and monotonous at the same time. Feed, clean, cuddle. Prep bottles, wash bottles, defrost milk. Every day, the same routine. Just when we think baby season is "over," there are more babies in need of safe haven. Last week as I was back on the road for another baby goat rescue road trip, I found myself thinking about life for the few short months that aren't baby season and asking myself "are we there yet?" Honestly, I was feeling the need for a break. A break where my kitchen isn't taken over by baby bottles and drying racks and gallons and gallons of milk. When my life isn't revolving around the 3x day bottle feeding schedule of at least 1/2 a dozen babies. Don't get me wrong, I love baby season. I truly do love the work that we do. It just takes a lot of time, energy and emotion to live this life 24/7. We knew that the babies I was bringing home that day would be some of the last of the season so things were sure to slow down going forward, right? Well, in rescue work, things never slow down. Case in point, that night we got the green light for a slaughterhouse rescue.

A typical BGC "traffic jam"

Slaughterhouse rescues are always hard emotionally. This one was particularly hard, I will spare you the details. After two days, we rescued over a dozen goats from death row. None who would have lived to see another 24 hours given the holiday weekend and business the slaughterhouse was seeing.

When we arrived in the early morning hours of day two we knew which two goats we wanted to pull. Two big, horned Lamancha wethers who were simply, awesome! The first one I spotted, now named Zeus, had a face a lot like my beloved boys Nicky and Nitro. I quickly scanned the pen and didn't see the other one and my heart sank. When I went in to lead Zeus to safety I was happy to spot his buddy who had been separated from him by a closed door. As I approached Zeus he stretched out his nose to give me kisses and happily followed me out and we grabbed his buddy, now known as Jupiter, along the way. These boys are stunningly beautiful and their sweet nature captured my heart immediately.

Taking Zeus & Jupiter out for fresh browse post rescue

As I was leading them out I passed by two young boers, no more than a few months old, curled up in a corner together. I had spotted them when I first went in on my mission to get Zeus and Jupiter out. It was clear one of these sweet babies was sick. And it was clear, these babies were coming with us. Not wanting them to be separated, even for a few minutes, I scooped them up, one under each arm and carried them out of the pen. Not an easy task. Pure adrehline kicks in when you're in these situations. The little sick doeling immediately nuzzled my face and wagged her tail. That moment, that is what our rescue work is all about.

The hard truth is, we aren't able to save them all. But we can save some. Some we save from the front lines of slaughter and some we save from ever having to go through the experience of a livestock auction, of being hauled from various states without food or water and from the horrible expereince that is their stay on death row at the slaughterhouse.

When I arrived home at BGC later that day, I drove through the gate and saw over 20 happy, healthy and quite honestly spoiled, goats. When I went into the pasture, Nicky ran right up to me and showered me with kisses, just as Zeus had done earlier that morning at the slaughterhouse. Tears filled my eyes. My boys and all of these little ones residing with us, never, ever have to experience what our slaughterhouse rescues do. They have been adored and cared for since the minute they were in our care. We work tirelessly to see that they find the best possible forever home. This, this is why we do what we do. This is why we take in as many babies as we can each year and let our lives revolve around their every need.

Millie in her favorite snuggle position

Last weekend's rescue was a reminder, a reminder of the bigger picture. We take in lots of baby goats each year. Over 70 each year the past two years. They are adorable and snuggly, happy and healthy. But they are a part of the bigger picture. Slaughtehouse rescue has been the backbone of PSGR. We rescue directly from the front lines of slaughter but the babies we take in from dairies and breeders each year are part of that mission too. We're preventing them from ever seeing that fate.

Since our slaughterhouse rescue last week, I have snuggled everyone just a little bit longer, hugged them just a little bit tighter and told them I loved them more times than I can count. What I experience during slaughterhouse rescues is something no goat should ever have to endure. The babies that come to our rescue never will. And those who we rescue who have lived through that, we hope to erase that experience as best we can and give them a second chance at the beautiful life they deserve.

So no, we're not there yet but that just means that more lives are being saved and forever changed. And I'm quite alright with that.

Bronx, one of our rescued 2016 dairy cull babies