Though the sanctuary’s operators initially intended to support their sheltering work by selling dairy products from the goats in their care, they eventually realized that this model was not sustainable.

Because goats, like all other mammals, must be impregnated in order to lactate, goat dairies produce not only milk but also baby goats. In the commercial model, these “byproducts” are typically auctioned off for slaughter or otherwise disposed of. A dairy that does not get rid of its male kids, as well as any female kids not needed as eventual replacements for the milking herd, will develop an overpopulation problem.

Thus the dairy/sanctuary operators found themselves with a very large herd indeed — too large to allow for the individualized care of each animal. Recognizing this, they decided to phase out their dairy business and devote their operation entirely to sheltering.

As this sanctuary reduces its residency in order to increase its quality of care, Farm Sanctuary is helping with placement. As part of that effort, we offered Amy Lynn a home at our Northern California Shelter.

Here Amy Lynn will receive the care and attention she needs to flourish. Like every one of our residents, she is a VIP. She is currently in isolation while we treat her for an upper respiratory infection, but once she has a clean bill of health, she’ll be able to join the sheep flock and make new friends. In the meantime, this sweet sheep is getting to know her caregivers — and getting used to the VIP life.

Thanks to our supporters we are able to respond quickly to intervene in the lives of precious individuals like Amy Lynn. If you haven’t joined Farm Sanctuary yet, won’t you consider becoming a part of this compassionate community?