"The Minis"

Photo courtesy of tranimaging

Written by Volunteer Sarah

My love affair with "the minis" began within the first few moments I met them. These adorable twins were 2 of 14 breeder cull kids from a dairy, who made a couple hour journey with me to the rescue back in March.

As it often does, the numbers for this kid pickup increased last minute so I slipped two plastic laundry baskets into the car for the 4 newborn goats. While loading up the kids I put the youngest two in one basket and the smallest two in another assuming they were the other set of newborns. A few miles down the road, I began to question my assumption.

We got on the road and everyone settled in as they usually do, except these two. They were up, looking out the window of the car (what the people in cars next to me must have thought) they talked, a lot, especially the smallest one. I chatted with them, reassuring them they were going to be ok, they were off to the good life. The talker took that as an invitation to try and join me in the driver’s seat. Luckily the basket was tall enough that they couldn’t get out but that didn’t stop him from trying to chew on my hair, bump me for milk and being the cutest backseat driver there ever was. It was clear that these two, now named, Nitro and Nicky, were bound to be two of the biggest personalities on the farm.

Their first week with us they both fell a little under the weather but their feisty personalities served them well and they recovered quickly. During their recovery they needed constant monitoring however so they were granted overnight house goat status for a week. Nitro became a space heater worshiper.

They were quickly back in the barn at night and spending their days out exploring and grazing and being the cutest little Lamanchas. They are as energetic and entertaining as can be. They are also little love bugs, happy to spend the day in my arms, chewing their cud and watching the world around them.

They are still two of the smallest kids even though now they are two of the oldest. They are not a miniature breed, they are purebred, standard size Lamanchas. I just affectionately refer to them as "the minis" not only because of their size but because they are also miniature versions of a number of other Lamancha kids currently at the rescue.

The smallest goats often have the biggest personalities and these two are no exception. Their air-sucking routine, we could take that on the road! They now even try it with me when I'm holding them, pressing their cheeks against mine. They’ve recently learned they can jump straight up in the air, it is their new favorite playtime activity. When not in my arms they love to nap on the stanchion. One at a time, not allowing any other goat to join them. Like I said, little goats, big personalities!

They have a tight sibling bond, however they have welcomed little Oberhasli Percy into their close knit family unit. Percy arrived as a single baby, a little guy as well and we were having a hard time finding the right group of kids for him to join. The minis have been the perfect fit for him. His mellow demeanor seems to be a good balance for the crazy duo. They are quite the charming trio.

It never fails that every year, some just take a hold of my heart from the get go. This year, "the minis" have me head over heels in love.

Celebrity Status

“We can’t all be stars because someone has to sit on the curb and clap as I go by” –Sebastian Horsley

Rocket. You all know him. We all love him. And these facts, well, they have started to go to his head.

It didn’t take long after his arrival last spring as a bottle baby that we realized Rocket was something special and he quickly cemented a very special place in the hearts and lives of myself, Barbara and other members of the PSGR family. It also didn’t take long before Rocket himself realized he was something special.

Admittedly, I have certainly had a hand in inflating his ego. Rocket pretty much has the run of the farm. Upon seeing my car drive up and hearing my voice he makes his way to the gate and talks to me until I let him out to the main area of the farm. He often accompanies me in everything I do. Literally everything. Everywhere I go, there he is “helping”. Helping includes getting into everything, leaning on me, getting in the way of anything I try to do, chewing on my zippers and simply staring at me with those big puppy dog eyes. When I want him to go back out with the goats he acts like a toddler; he doesn’t listen, he looks at me like I’m crazy and goes back to whatever it is he wants to be doing. When he is amongst the other goats it’s near impossible to pay attention to or brush any other goat, the minute Rocket sees it, he will wedge himself in the middle and there he stays.

When this year’s new bottle babies started arriving at the rescue he was less than thrilled. He goes around to all the baby feeders and eats their hay from the other side of the fence, just because it’s theirs. If I’m sitting holding a baby and he is the same area, he will often come up and try and bite the baby and shoo any babies near me away. If I’m in a baby pasture he lays at the fence and stares me down. He has had to learn to share the spotlight which is not a lesson he has been happy to learn.

Yes, he was on local TV weekly during the NFL season wearing his Kam Chancellor jersey supporting the Seahawks and he won a local Santa’s Favorite Pet contest by a landslide. Most people who visit the farm know who he is without having ever met him and almost every family that has come to adopt goats would have chosen him in a heartbeat if he didn’t already have a permanent home with us. But these things aren’t what make Rocket a star. What makes him a star is he’s just simply Rocket. When you meet him you just get it. He’s pretty special.

Yesterday while the main herd was out grazing I sat down in the pasture to spend a few minutes with Harmony, a sweet mini Lamancha doe and within 10 seconds guess who was there pawing at me? So there Rocket and I sat, he leaned on me and chewed his cud. Best friends watching the herd enjoying a break from the rain. Yes, his diva like behavior drives us crazy sometimes but hey, someone has to be the star.

Whatever it takes

It is the nature of rescue work that the rescuing is only the beginning of saving some of the animals that come into our care. In Barbara's 10+ years of doing this, she has seen a lot. Each year we see animals with familiar and unfamiliar ailments. One thing remains the same however, we do absolutely everything in our power to save them. No matter what the cost. Because not only do these animals deserve a second chance at life, they deserve for someone to fight for that chance to be possible. When lamb Callie was literally dropped off at our front gate after being spared by a meat buyer because she was too small and ill, we knew we were her only hope. Her prognosis wasn't great. Even if we were able to manage her joint infection, vets believed she would be permanently crippled. Regardless of what her prognosis was, Callie deserved the best possible care we could provide her. She deserved for someone to care enough to try. Treatments were started immediately and incredibly generous and talented volunteers fast tracked designing and building a cart for Callie to assist her during her rehabilitation. Today, she has made a truly amazing recovery. She beat the odds and shows no lingering effects of her joint ill. She arrived terrified of anyone with two legs but with a lot of TLC, even when she wasn't sure she wanted it, those days are long behind her. Medicine is not the only thing in the world with healing powers.

Callie upon arrival, one month into recovery and now two months since arriving at PSGR

The first of our bottle raised kids started arriving back in February, an exciting but always cautious time, as their health is often fragile as they grow and develop immune systems. Boo had only been with us a few days when Barbara went out to the barn one morning to find him collapsed. The days that followed included an emergency vet hospital visit, multiple vet consultations and 24/7 care and monitoring. Barbara dropped everything to care for Boo, volunteers came on last minute notice to stay with Boo when Barbara needed to work and there was nothing that wasn't done to save him. Today, he's bouncing around playing with his friends and escorting everyone to the gate when they leave. Boo didn't have much fight in him that first week of his recovery, he needed to be fought for, and that is exactly what we did.

Boo got house goat status during his recovery

There is a lot of time, energy, emotion and money that is put forth to save animals in all stages of health at PSGR each year. Every bit of it is worth it. There is no greater reward than seeing Callie out grazing as far in the fields as the fences will let her, when she could barely walk just 2 months ago. To see Boo frolicking and racing around the pasture then curling up with his best bud Vespa for a nap, when just a few weeks ago he was too weak to even hold his head up.

There are so many things we have to consider and make decisions about on a daily basis in regards to the work that we do. When it comes to saving our rescues, there are no questions. We do whatever it takes.

Boo has made a full recovery!

Reunited....and it feels so good

Loki and I last weekend, I love that boy!

I recently received an invitation I could not refuse, to go visit 4 of my favorite bottle baby boys from last year. With new kids arriving weekly at the rescue, I often find myself wondering how last year's kids are doing. We bring these little ones in just days old, bottle raise them and find them the best possible home. We become invested. We often hear how they're doing shortly after their adoption but rarely do we get the chance to see how they're doing a year later. To see firsthand how their lives have been changed since graduating from the rescue and how they are changing the life of the family they have joined.

Milo and Zuma (now Oden) were some of our first kid arrivals last year. Two of a group of crazy affectionate and entertaining alpines. When prospective adopter Robin came to visit the rescue to meet the herd and select her new four legged family members, it was clear to us that whomever she selected was going to have an amazing home. A few weeks later Milo and Oden went home with Robin. We received occasional updates and pictures and kind words from Robin about how with goats now in her life, she was living her dream.

Oden (Zuma) and Milo upon arrival at the rescue at 2 weeks old

It didn't take long before she was ready for two more. Goats are addicting. A fact I'm sure many of you are fully aware of. It was perfect timing as the last of our bottle babies, Jet and Loki were still looking for their forever home. It's no secret that Loki held a very special place in my heart and I was dreading the day I would have to say goodbye. When I heard Robin was interested in the boys, I was thrilled. I couldn't imagine a more perfect home for them. And so they went.....

3 week old Jet and Loki

Today, the 4 boys are living in goat paradise. 15 acres, rocks to play on, forest trails to explore, a huge barn complete with goat bedrooms with sleeping platforms and a mom who loves, spoils and simply adores them. It is clear that not only has Robin given the boys an incredible home, they have given just as much to her in the joy and peace they bring.

Milo today

Seeing the boys so happy, healthy and wonderfully cared for, absolutely made my day. Not to mention loving on all of them and getting Loki kisses. It strengthens my resolve for the work that we do. Despite all the ups and downs that come along with rescue work, this is what it's about. People like like Robin who seek out rescues, who choose to adopt. The second chance we and our adoptive families get to provide for these innocent lives that otherwise would have faced an unknown future.

Oden today

I cannot thank Robin enough for inviting me to spend an afternoon at her farm. If I had a crystal ball, I'm willing to bet I'd see more goats in her future, I certainly hope so. I'm up for another reunion with those boys any day and any goat that finds a home with her is a very lucky goat.

To help us make the same kind of future possible for this year's littlest rescues, please consider joining our kids club. A one time $25 donation helps PSGR to rescue, care for and re-home our youngest rescues.

Simply the best

It's been a month since I've posted a blog entry, a time frame I told myself I would never let happen. But I've come to the realization that there is no "slow" season at PSGR. The last month has been filled with lots of adoptions, new volunteers, a website overhaul, marketing & fundraising plans, social media mania, networking, work party planning and of course the day to day care of the ever changing herd at PSGR. All while we work full time jobs away from the rescue. Regardless of whatever it is we're doing, every day is a good day when you're working to care for and save goats. No matter how busy we get with everything else, the heart of what we do is save lives. Amongst all the busyness of the past few weeks, we've had quite a few new arrivals. Today, I brought 4 new babies to the rescue. It was a long 11 hour day. As I said goodnight to all the animals and turned off the barn lights I realized that days like these, new arrival days, they are quite possibly the best days.

For me, there is an excitement whenever we get new arrivals at the rescue. No matter where they come from, be it the slaughterhouse, breeder cull kids or private party surrenders, there is the promise of a better day for them. No matter what their past, we get to provide them with the best possible future. That feeling, it's pretty amazing. It's heartwarming, gratifying and maybe even a little magical. The joy and the satisfaction it brings, there is nothing quite like it.

Tara, our newest slaughterhouse rescue has fit right in like she's been with us forever. The Toggenburg girls, Kit and Kat, who arrived a few weeks ago shy and unsure, followed me around today to see what might be in my pockets. They have even joined the top of the picnic table napping rotation. The babies all took turns being snuggled up in my coat, taking comfort after a day full of change. Just like every new arrival, their realities are changing. But that is a good thing. Their new reality will be void of uncertainty. It will be full of what we wish for every goat, for every animal, love and comfort. We get to do that. We get to make that difference for them. Every time we get new arrivals, it brings new hope, new life and those days are simply the best.

We Believe!

NW Washington is electric right now. The city of Seattle is literally lit up in blue and green and sporting the number 12. A city, a community, saying "I'm in." Why? Because we believe.

We believe in a team that many critics thought wouldn't amount to much. A team that is largely made up of third, fourth and fifth round draft picks and undrafted free agents. Players, many didn't believe in. Players, many didn't think had what it took to be stars in the NFL. Players, many didn't think were good enough.

At PSGR our barn is filled with goats that people didn't think were good enough. Goats that for whatever reason, were thought to be worth nothing more than to be sent to slaughter. But that's not what we see. To us, they are amazing. Each their own personality, each bringing something different to the herd. Each worthy of love, security and care. Worthy of someone believing that they are good enough. To be given the chance to simply be themselves.

It may seem crazy, to some, to see goats in jerseys and cheerleading outfits supporting a local football team. But to me, it represents a spirit. A spirit of overcoming and perseverance. A spirit of seeing worth and value where others see none. A spirit of believing.

So from a barn full of goats who were cast aside, now getting a second chance at life to a team who many critics never believed in, now on their way to a second straight Super Bowl, we believe!

Go Hawks!

The Gentle Giants

Groot

Not all of our rescues come to us from unfortunate circumstances but they all have a story. Groot

We currently have some BIG boys at PSGR waiting to find their forever homes. Upon walking into the main herd, their presence is unmistakable. They are all about 2 times the size of anyone else in the herd. One would think these boys are the leaders of the pack when in fact the opposite is true.

Romeo and Maverick came to us via a private party surrender. Each about a year and a half old, they had been left as bucks until just days before arriving at PSGR. They are two of the most handsome goats I have ever seen. Long hair, beards and the best top knot hairdos! As big and masculine as they were in appearance, it was clear from the start that these boys were the sensitive and quiet type. Still to this day, months later, I don't think I've ever heard either of them bleat. Not once.

Romeo

Romeo

A few weeks after they arrived it was time to integrate them into the main herd. To our surprise when we did there was none of the usual introduction antics. No head butting, no running around, no exploring. The two simply made their way to a side pasture and there they stayed. For weeks. Only coming down to eat after the main herd had settled in for the night. And then they discovered the tree trunk. For a month, the two boys took turns with their heads in the trunk. They would stand there for hours at a time. We did everything we could to ease their stress but they apparently found solace in the tree trunk so we let them do what they needed to do. After weeks of this odd behavior their stress began to dissipate and they slowly started integrating themselves into the herd.

Romeo and the infamous tree trunk

Romeo and the infamous tree trunk

Romeo finally came out of his shell and showed off his moves. He loves to jump and dance in the air, his long hair flowing like a super model. Maverick loves to give kisses. He has the sweetest face and loves his cheeks scratched. He is often like a little kid hiding behind me when anyone he doesn't know comes to visit but he is beginning to realize that Barbara and I aren't the only ones who will give him love. These two are true sweethearts, so gentle and kind. Despite their size, they aren't demanding, it's almost as if they come up to you and ask permission to get attention. They never assert any dominance, but they often secure their favorite spot atop the picnic table (Romeo) or on any hill (Maverick).

Maverick

The recent addition of Groot makes Romeo and Maverick not seem so big. Which seems impossible but Groot is a big, big boy. He lived 3 years on a tether before being surrendered to us. When we picked him up, he ran right up to me and wanted to play. This coupled with his size, made me look at Barbara and say "well this is going to be fun" but by the time we arrived back at the rescue, he was shaking like a leaf. He, like the other big boys, is sensitive and incredibly gentle and sweet. He loves to great visitors, especially the smallest ones, he is fascinated by them.

Groot following a young friend

Romeo, Maverick and Groot are respectful, loving and quiet; the definition of gentle giants in my book. Their stories have only just begun. We've loved being a part of their journey thus far. In our chapter, we're tasked with making sure these big, sensitive boys feel as loved and secure as possible until we find them their lifelong home. We can't wait to see what the next chapter holds for our gentle giants.

Tillie Had a Little Lamb

And everywhere that Tillie went the lamb was sure to go..... Tillie and Buckaroo were both rescued from a local slaughterhouse this past Fall, just days after they each were born. Today, they're the best of friends. Buckaroo follows Tillie everywhere on her adventures around the farm. Their paths to the happy duo they are today could not have been more different.

I've talked in past posts about what an uphill battle saving young rescues born at the slaughterhouse is. Tillie was an exception. Knock on wood, this little boer cross doeling has not been sick a day in her life. She arrived healthy and vibrant and has not slowed down one bit. She is full of personality and character and has no fear. She will challenge any goat on the farm and will take off exploring with out a second thought. And her ears, she has those helicopter ears we all love so much!

Buckaroo on the other hand was the definition of the all too common uphill battle. He arrived caked in mud, weak, lifeless and with no interest in taking a bottle. He championed through his first few days but was not quite the vigorous and energetic lamb he should have been. Weeks went by where he would have good days and bad and we honestly weren't sure what the future held for him. Luckily the wonderful Dr. Pete thought an ulcer might be causing his problems. Sure enough, within a day of treating it as such, he was a new lamb. He is gaining weight, growing like a weed and bouncing around after Tillie wherever she goes.

2 different roads led to where they are today, a darling duo who is as entertaining as they are cute. They will get to live out their lives as the best friends they have become. A story that nursery rhymes are made of.

Why does the lamb love Tillie so? Why, Tillie loves the lamb, you know

The Gift

"There is no greater gift you can give or receive than to honor your calling. It's why you were born" -Oprah Winfrey It's hard to believe another year has come and gone. For me, personally, 2014 will be the year that I truly discovered what I am here to do. To help save animals. A discovery I feel lucky to have made.

The other day, in a stall of the barn sitting with a couple of the goats, I had a moment. As tears filled my eyes, lost in a moment of thinking about the loss we have experienced, the sadness of what wasn't meant to be this year, I was reminded in that same exact moment of all the good we've seen and done. The lives we saved, the progress we made. Lost in my moment I was brought back by a cry from the next stall over. It was Rocket. Who seeing me sitting down, took it as an invitation to come hang out with me but there was a gate in his way. He made me smile, he always does. I turned to see Luna laying next to me. Luna, a goat who has taken up more and more space in my heart in the time she's been with us. Likely a retired dairy Saanen, sent to auction, pregnant, purchased by a slaughterhouse, rescued by us and now being completely spoiled.

It reminded me of all the goats and sheep, young and old, who came through the rescue this year; how entertaining, loving and innocent they are. How hard it was to see them go but how heartwarming it is to see how happy they make their new families. The spring that brought countless breeder cull babies bouncing around the barn, bright eyed and full of energy. The summer that was so hot none of us, 2 or 4 legged, wanted to even move. (We are wimpy about heat in the NW) How the goats were sunbathing in pools in October and just a month later how the whole place froze over and the goat kids experienced their first snow.

I remembered the goats who we didn't think would survive after what they had been through only to see them recover, thrive and find their lifelong homes. The goats who were so shy and apprehensive upon arrival who now love attention and seek out a scratch on the cheek. The numerous photo shoots with amazingly tolerant goats that had us all laughing. The rescues where going to rescue 5 or 6 goats turned into 18 goats coming back.

I was inspired by this place and Barbara's work and it's led me to help bring a fundraising and social media presence to the rescue. We were humbled by the support both monetarily and simply by words of thanks and encouragement. The love of goats is truly a powerful connection.

That moment the other day was a time to reflect, accept and move ahead. Because just as so many lives depended on us this year, so many more will next year. I got up and went about what needed to be done. Rocket and Luna reminded me that the good outweighs the sad and I have been given a gift. And the best thing I can do is share that gift and help prepare PSGR for whatever 2015 has in store.

I also wanted to say a heartfelt thank you to everyone who has taken the time to read this blog these past 6 months. I have truly loved being able to share the stories of PSGR with you and can't wait to share our adventures of 2015. Happy New Year!

Wally

We have no idea how long he had been wandering without a home, where he came from or what led him to where he was found. A few years ago Wally showed up at an alpaca farm in Maple Valley. He was just standing in one of their pastures one morning. They called the rescue and Wally was picked up and brought to PSGR. He was frightened, thin and very leery of human contact. Over time we have earned a little bit of his trust. He will now approach us when we enter the pasture and he will now eat out of our hands. He is a goofy goat. Tall, lanky and slim by nature, with a big head and little ears. He is very athletic; quick and agile, he reminds us of a deer. It's impossible not to smile every time you see this quirky looking guy.

Around the same time Wally arrived we also took in Claudine, a goat seized by animal control from a cruelty case. Claudine was terrified, traumatized and clearly had not known a gentle touch. She was being kept alone in an open pasture with no shelter in the dead of winter. Her hooves were so overgrown she had to crawl to get anywhere. Animal control confiscated her on the spot and brought her to the rescue. She still struggles with hoof problems that require regular trims and having her feet treated regularly with a spray. This has made her a little more hesitant in warming up to us. Honestly, who could blame her when she associates us with uncomfortable hoof treatments? Little steps of progress are made though. Once she realizes you are not there to hurt her, she will stand still and let you approach and pet her. It is easy to tell she is an incredibly sweet natured goat.

Currently they are the longest adoptable residents at the rescue, 3+ years. The two have been residing at a foster home just down the road from PSGR. Ironically, it is also home to a herd of alpacas. Wally seems to have a thing for alpacas. Wally and Claudine are truly the best of friends and have an incredibly strong bond.

They may not be like our other rescues who thrive on human interaction and love attention and affection but Wally will run up to greet you when you visit. Claudine is always not far behind him. Taking animals into our rescue comes with a promise from us to them. That we will do everything we can to make sure they are loved and respected for the rest of their lives. That they will never be hungry or without a drink of water again and that we will work to find them their forever home.

Wally and Claudine are in need of just that, a forever home. A home that understands that they are shy but that they want to trust and with patience and TLC, they will. A home that recognizes Claudine's need for extra care for her feet. The rescue is a less than ideal place for Claudine and her feet in the winter so we would like nothing more than to find them a new home as soon as possible. We know Wally and Claudine would like that too. Help us fulfill the promise of rescue work and complete the circle with a forever home for Wally and Claudine. After what they have endured, they deserve to finally be home.

Second Chance Ranch

Diane is one of the many amazing people who help make PSGR what it is. She has assisted us in countless ways; adopting numerous goats and 3 alpacas from PSGR, fostering animals, transporting, donating and serving on our board of directors. She has created a forever home called Second Chance Ranch for a variety of rescued animals. Diane has also turned her passion, and her daughter's, into a business that not only helps kids unplug from the technology of today but also helps give them an awareness of rescue animals and the wonderful creatures that they are. Here is her story:

"My love for animals, particularly those needing homes, began as soon as I could walk. I remember a picture of myself as a small child holding a tabby cat underneath its forearms as the cat dangled down in front of me, almost as long as I was. I grew up on an acre with a small barn in our backyard, which, over time, I turned into a sanctuary for stray cats, rescued rabbits, injured birds and a stray boxer dog. My first experience with a goat was with a neighbor that had a large Saanan. I thought this goat was really cool and I even got to take care of him for a few months. I always knew that someday I would want goats. Having three brothers who were so involved in organized sports, this barn was where I spent most of my afternoons after school. My parents had an idea that there were more than just my two horses living in that barn but turned a blind eye and let me pursue my passion for saving animals.

After marrying, having four kids, and living in West Bellevue for a dozen years, I really began to miss having animals and convinced my husband to get goats. We adopted two pygmies and then soon acquired chickens and rabbits as well. It didn’t take us long to realize we needed more space so we bought a house on six acres in Sammamish. I was thrilled!

Over the last 15 years, I have created a rescue farm for homeless animals called Second Chance Ranch. We have adopted, fostered and rescued cats, dogs, alpacas, llamas, horses, bunnies, and of course, goats. This year we even took on a large steer that many wanted for meat. He is as sweet as can be and brings great joy to the neighbor kids who come to the bus stop early each morning to bring Cowboy carrots. I get such a great feeling of fulfillment when I look over my pastures and see the once neglected goats climbing the rocks, the alpacas chasing and playing with each other and the kids visiting daily to see Cowboy and the farm. Sharing the farm and teaching children to appreciate and care for these wonderful animals is very rewarding.

I met Barbara, founder of Puget Sound Goat Rescue about 12 years ago when I was looking to adopt a friend for my elder goat. I have fostered many of Barbara’s rescues and have adopted goats, alpacas and Cowboy the steer through her. I think of Barbara as the Goat Angel as she has such a heart and commitment to saving these sweet pets. I have been on the PSGR board since the beginning and have enjoyed all the wonderful members and volunteers that have contributed to this passion.

My daughter, Julie, also has acquired this love for neglected animals; in particular, cats. She fosters and rescues cats missing tails, an eye, teeth, and senior cats. But they are never missing hearts and the ability to reward her back with their love. Julie and I recently started a business called Unplug and Create. We make activity boxes for children that also incorporate our love for our rescues. Each box has rescue trading cards featuring the various rescue animals living on the farm or foster animals we have worked with. It also has short stories about the rescue of a particular animal and shows actual photos of that rescued animal. The boxes have pictures around the outside of our special pets. The five activities boxes have different themes: Farm, Garden, Write-On, Sport, and Spy. All introduce kids to the rescue farm.

In addition, I have begun to write and publish children’s stories about rescued pets from our farm. As a child, I wrote stories and poetry, often inspired by my work with animals and I always knew I would like to write books one day. As our youngest graduates this year from college, I have begun to fulfill this dream. So far, we have four books in what I call, “The Rescue Series”, and two more in the works. These books are thetrue stories of a rescued pet, told by the pets themselves. At the end of each story, I have added actual photos of that animal, making the story very real to the child. Kids and adults alike have shared their love of the books and have given them great reviews. Although my books and our business is not a non-profit organization, it does help us fund the ranch and give to the goat rescue, where I have found Barbara and other special people and volunteers.

I don’t work with rescues out of obligation. To me, it is a privilege to be able to give them a better life. I don’t look in the neglected pets’ eyes and have pity; I see an angel needing a second chance, a home and a human to love and be loved by. Many have broken limbs, broken tails and broken hearts, but we can fix that by intervening and giving them a second chance. They need us. When we give these little angels a better life, they make us a better person." -Diane

We truly can not thank Diane enough for all she has done and continues to do for PSGR! We are lucky to have her as a part of our PSGR family and the animals that have found their way to Second Chance Ranch are very lucky rescues!

Gratitude

PSGR is life changing, literally, for the animals we rescue. Even if they don't realize it, the rescue means everything to them and their second chance at life. PSGR means a lot to the people that cross paths with it as well. It's near impossible for this place, these animals, not have some impact on everyone who walks through our gate. Especially the core group of us who choose to spend the time that we do here. I often say that my work with PSGR is my therapy. It is my happy place. Yes, I am helping animals but just as much, they are helping me. They demonstrate unconditional love, trust, resilience, courage, forgiveness and so much more, every single day. Discovering this place and the work that Barbara does, I feel as though I have finally found what I am here on this earth to help do. I am grateful to be given the opportunity to be a part of what Barbara has created. I've discovered my true passion and will forever be grateful.

Baby Finn and I last winter

Baby Finn and I last winter

For the past 4 years volunteer Emily has spent her Saturday's at PSGR: "I've always thought that bumper sticker that says "Who rescued who?" was a bit cheesy, but after I started working at PSGR I realized that as cheesy as it was, it was also true. I love the goats for who they are, and I have really enjoyed learning the skills to take proper care of them. But what I didn't expect was how much they would help in my process of recovering from the abuse I experienced as a child. They really are therapy animals for me. Goats by their nature are sweet and silly and usually quite gentle, and they are an anchor for me. A reminder that there are beings in this world that it is safe to connect with; that mothers can and do protect their children; that tiny babies really are precious and worth protecting - worth rescuing from the muck and mire of a slaughterhouse. It's been nearly four years since my first volunteer day, and not a week has gone by that I haven't been grateful for their presence in my life." -Emily

Emily

Bonnie has been involved with the rescue for over 10 years now: "It has been about ten years since I have met Barbara and the PSGR volunteers. When I retired I knew I wanted to do something useful and needed. Farm animal rescue was perfect. Many people are not aware of the need to help these creatures, or the farming practices that contribute to the need for rescues. Barbara has been rescuing long before I gave it a thought. Many animals have come and gone over the years. Many lives rescued and given another chance for a good life. Goats, chickens, calfs, alpacas, sheep, lambs, dogs, llamas.....

The work is rewarding - to see a very ill animal recover, to see a happy family picking up their new family member, to hear back from them and see pictures of how well they are all doing. So much to be thankful for all around. Thankful the rescue is there for the animals; thankful for the dedication and hard work Barbara and the volunteers contribute to our little corner of the world; the thankful adoptive families, and the thanks from the people who contribute resources and money to the rescue. That surprised me the most, people thanking me for doing the work. It has meant a lot to me to help explain the mission of the rescue, to educate people about the reality of what has to happen to put meat on the table, to see the animals get well, to see peace come into their lives. Most of all I am thankful to be a part of it.

There was the time Barbara and I sat with a troubled pregnant goat, it was the middle of the night; oh, it was so cold and snowing, no light or heat in the barn. Misery. Mama goat decides that sooner or later her baby is going to come. She did not not have an easy time of it, Barbara knew what to do and pulled the baby into a new world while I talked and sang and tried to comfort mama. When it was over, that big, tired, thankful goat gave me big licks all over my face. So gross, but she was telling us 'thank you'. I was thankful this did not happen too often." -Bonnie

Bonnie

We all have experiences from our time here that will stay with us forever. More memories and moments I am thankful for are made every time I walk through that gate.

No post about gratitude would be complete without thanking the person at the heart of all of this, Barbara. She has dedicated her life to saving these animals and making their lives not only safe and healthy and happy, but possible. She has created a place that has not only saved thousands of goats and sheep and various other animals but she has also created a place of meaning and purpose for many animal loving people. Thank you Barbara, you are much loved by your PSGR family, 2 and 4 legged!

It takes a village

"Volunteers do not necessarily have the time, they just have the heart"-Elizabeth Andrew

There is a saying "It takes a village". That could not be more true for PSGR. With a founder who works a full time corporate job, no staff and no money growing trees to be found, the rescue relies on generous volunteers, supporters and donors to enable the work that we do.

Vounteers are an essential part of the day to day operations of the farm. Laurie is a part of our small core group of volunteers and was kind enough to share her story and what keeps her returning to PSGR month after month:

"The first time I visited the rescue was in March of 2013. I kept hearing about it via a friend of a friend (Rachel, a former PSGR volunteer), and had always wanted to find out more. Rachel gave me Barbara's number and I called her one day when I was in the Maple Valley area on another errand. Even though she was busy Barbara was nice enough to give me a brief tour of the place and tell me a little about its purpose. The first animal I got to meet was Olivia the giant sheep. I'd never seen such a big sheep before! She had only just arrived and the wool was just dripping off of her. But what a gentle sweet presence she had. It really struck me that Olivia sensed she was going to be OK now.

The other two animals I remember from that day are Emile and Klondike. They were just babies then and so adorable. I met several others as well. At one point we were standing in the driveway talking and Barbara said, "I think Levi wants you to pet him". I turned slightly and sure enough, Levi the big white goat was standing quietly just behind me, waiting for some pets!

Long story short, after that visit I decided to become a volunteer. My first day as a volunteer was a doozy! I got splattered with pee (babies on my lap), milk (feeding babies while they were on my lap), poop (cleaning), and. . . hot sheep's blood. Yes, you read that right. There was a ewe there who'd recently had surgery on her foot, and Barbara needed to change the dressing on the wound. She showed me how to "rump" the ewe so she could get to work. Trouble was, when she finally got the bandage off, the blood started spurting, which was not supposed to happen. After trying a few things she said,"Laurie, could you just keep pressure on her foot for me while I go in and get the phone to call the vet to make sure I can get this under control?". So I awkwardly kept balancing this 150 lb. ewe on her rump while hanging on to her forelegs, and putting pressure on her foot to stop the bleeding, until Barbara returned and got it under control. The bandage was changed, the ewe limped off, and we both said, "whew!". The next words out of Barbara's mouth were: "Are you going to come back?" We both burst out laughing as I answered yes, because I had truly had a baptism by fire. For a city girl with zero experience handling farm animals it was quite a day!

Ever since, I've been hooked. I look forward to "going to the goats" every month, and wish I could come down once a week instead of once a month (it's a long drive from NE Seattle, alas). I love being there. It has become a sanctuary of sorts for me. Away from the city, in the beauty of the countryside, I can spend an afternoon with the friendly, curious, always entertaining, and lovable residents of the rescue and leave feeling renewed and recharged. It's lovely to work outdoors in the fresh air (even, to my surprise, through the cold and rainy winter -- and here I thought I was such a weather wimp!). I can exist entirely in the moment, whether doing my chores, comforting a frightened new arrival, snuggling with a darling baby, or just hanging out with the herd and enjoying their company. I have learned so much, not only about the animals, but also about myself. I'm glad to be a part of the amazing work Barbara and all her helpers do to give these wonderful creatures the chance to live happy and healthy lives.

I hope these words help to convey my deep gratitude and joy in volunteering at the rescue!"

-Laurie

Thank you for sharing your story Laurie, we're lucky to have you as a part of our PSGR family!

Daisy

For those of you who follow our Facebook page, you're probably familiar with Daisy. Daisy is known for having the best ears on the farm. Her ears often stick straight out to the side and she looks like she's about to take off, helicopter ears we often call them. But there is so much more to this darling little girl who is still, 5 months after her rescue, waiting for her forever home.

Daisy was rescued from a local slaughterhouse when she was just a few months old. She was rescued with 3 adults and at the time we had no other kids her age at the rescue. Daisy didn't seem to mind, she fit right in with the big goats. Daisy was friendly but a little leery of her new situation at first and who could blame her? She quickly realized she was now somewhere she would be respected and would get all the love and attention she could ever want. And we quickly learned, she can't get enough!

Daisy has truly turned out to be one of the sweetest, most affectionate goats on the farm. She will seek you out and if you don't notice her, she will gently paw you to let you know she is there and would like some attention. She would stand with you all day and let you pet her and she will follow a brush anywhere.

She is incredibly easy going, tolerant and she gets along with everyone. She'll stand patiently while you trim her toenails or wear various holiday headbands for photos. She's mindful and polite, never pushy, never noisy. She is simply, delightful.

However this precious little girl is still waiting to find her lifelong home. The time it takes for goats to be adopted once they're ready to be, varies. Part of the work we do is making sure that we are facilitating the process of finding the best "fit" for both the goat and the adopting family. Yes, the more animals we adopt out the more we can rescue, but making sure it is a positive and lasting relationship for the animals and their new families is just as important.

We know that the perfect forever home for Daisy is out there. When the day comes that she leaves us for it, she will be greatly missed but she will have found what she deserves, a family of her own to love her forever. Trust us, she will return every ounce of that love, ten fold.

Bromance

Our herd dynamic is always changing and I love seeing the friendships that form amongst the animals. In our current herd Daisy seems to have an affinity for Dove, the 3 Nubian kids stick together like glue and Amara and Calista are like two peas in a pod. Literally. They squeeze into an upside down crate top big enough for one to be together. But no friendship is as entertaining and endearing as Cowboy and Finn.

Cowboy is a dwarf cross that was rescued and bottle raised at PSGR. He is entering his senior years as a member of the PSGR resident herd. Finn, also a dwarf cross, was born at a local slaughterhouse last Christmas and was rescued with his mom Faye the day he was born. Finn, being the oldest of all the kids this past season, was always the man in charge and instigating trouble. When Finn graduated to the main herd this summer he was more of a low man on the totem pole and had some learning to do.

With mom Faye recovering from foot surgery Finn turned to Cowboy for guidance in being a "big goat". I started noticing that wherever Cowboy was, you could find Finn. When Cowboy got up to eat, Finn got up to eat. If Cowboy got a drink of water, Finn got a drink of water. If Cowboy shooed someone out of the way with a head butt, Finn would mimic his exact movements. At first I thought Cowboy was just being tolerant of this pesky little goat shadowing him. But the more I paid attention, the more I realized Cowboy seemed to realize his newfound role of mentor. If someone picks on Finn in Cowboy's presence, Cowboy is quick to come to his defense.

We will never know what draws certain animals to one another. What we do know is that Finn and Cowboy's friendship and Finn's absolute admiration of Cowboy is undeniable. I like to think that the senior members of the resident herd are passing their wisdom and roles on to the younger ones. Or maybe it's just yet another phase in an ever changing herd. Either way, there is no question, it's bromance!

The Meaning of Success

Success means different things to different people. Success in its simplest form for us, is healing the animals we bring to PSGR and facilitating a chance at life that they wouldn't have had otherwise. To find good lifelong homes for them so we can continue the cycle of the work that we do. For two little lambs born in a hauling trailer at a slaughterhouse, left undiscovered for a day, the road to success was a little longer but they made it. Now, they're living on a 5 acre farm with other rescue animal friends and very loving new "parents".

"They spend their days playing together and grazing. Recently, they discovered that they can pull down the chicken wire surrounding our raised vegetable beds which has resulted in the end of our broccoli, beans and calendula but that's okay. It's already the end of the season, so they did our cleanup for us."

They have lots of new friends including rescued cats, dogs, goats and two little mini pigs. "They have become accustomed to our mini pigs, Charlotte and Olive, who come out to the back yard to lounge after meals."

"Every now and again they still come looking for a bottle, but it's hard to believe they were so small just a month ago. Instead of a bottle, now they get chin scratches and cuddles."

Even the smallest victories make us incredibly happy. Bongo and Halle, weren't a small victory, they were a pretty big one. They had a rough start but they fought their way through. Bongo even became a celebrity sporting a Seahawks jersey featured as the "12th lamb" on local news stations. Now they are healthy, happy and thriving. They have been rewarded with a safe and loving new home. To us, this is success.

"Even though the world is full of suffering, it's also full of overcoming it " -Hellen Keller

The Road to Picture Perfect

As the wonderful women who come out to take photos for us will tell you, goats are not the easiest of photo subjects. They would rather nibble on the camera straps. Stand next to the photographer for some attention instead of in front of the camera for a picture. They're always moving, eating or looking the other way. It takes hundreds of pictures (not to mention a lot of goat herding, hand waving, can shaking and funny voice making) to get a handful of good ones. A few weeks ago PSGR friends Lilly and Emily came out with some Halloween props and their amazing photographer mom Jerrinne. When Rocket saw the props he decided to stay put and observe from the dog house.

Soon he could not resist partaking in the fun

He was drawn to Bingo's hat, obsessed is more like it

Others were simply perplexed by Bingo in his hat

Peach was quick to figure out that a tip of her head would knock her hat off

A few others found the props to be tasty new treats

Emily helped get the headbands on the goats while Lilly tried a new vantage point to help get the goats attention

Finally it worked!

Many thanks to Jerrinne, Lilly and Emily. Their spirit, photography skills and some cooperative goats made for some great Halloween fun and some picture perfect photos!

Maisey makes a darling little witch

Athena, the most photogenic girl on the farm

Olivia has passed the sheep participation on to Klondike

Sweet Mona

Our blue eyed boy Finn

"Boo" Happy Halloween from Jet and everyone at PSGR!

Chance

Everyone has their favorites. I catch myself every time I want to say "favorites" when I talk about the animals that cross our path. I guess I just feel bad, I do love them all but there are some that cement a special place in my heart. So ok, yes, favorites. Everyone has their favorites.

For me, there are "my boys", Finn, Rocket and Loki. Now a little Nubian kid we named Chance has joined their ranks.

The minute I opened the back of the truck when volunteer Janice arrived with the latest group of slaughterhouse rescues last month, my eyes went right to a little Nubian kid laying almost flat out in the back of the group. Instantly my heart melted. I asked Janice if he was ok. He certainly didn't look ok. She had picked him up off a kill pen floor and wasn't sure just what state of health he was in but he wasn't going to die there, that she knew.

We started unloading goats one by one. Once the truck was almost unloaded the little Nubian finally got up and cried out. Immediate relief. I carried him to some grass where he instantly started eating.

Chance was most likely a bottle baby. He was purchased by the slaughterhouse from a local livestock auction. The auction and slaughterhouse experience can be hard on even the most resilient animal. For these young little ones, going there can be simply devastating to them. They aren't usually handled with care or respect there and once at the slaughterhouse they can't compete with the bigger animals for the limited food and water. They are often confused and scared. Chance was clearly overwhelmed by everything he had been through and exhausted. When I finally sat down that evening he came up to me, laid his head against my shoulder and fell asleep. I was in love.

Chance, hours after he arrived, getting some much needed reassurance

I like to think the feeling is mutual. He follows me everywhere when I'm at the farm. I look down and he's always just staring up at me and he always has something to say. Always. He often talks without really opening his mouth, it is the most endearing, sweet voice. And his eyes, he has these sleepy eyes that make me melt every time I look at him.

He loves Emma and Enzo, two Nubian kids he was rescued with. They likely found eachother at the slaughterhouse and banded together, they're rarely ever apart these days. In them he has a newfound family allowing him to feel safe and at ease. These three have not stopped eating since they arrived. They're gaining weight, growing and couldn't be doing better!

Sweet little Chance bears the name of the opportunity we are able to give all of the animals at PSGR, a second chance.

Emma, Chance and Enzo

Friendship

"Friendship is the only cement that will ever hold the world together"-Woodrow T Wilson

"Friends find the sweetest sense of happiness comes from simply being together" -Unknown

"A day spent with friends is always a day well spent" -Unknown

"Friendship isn't about whom you have known the longest, it's about who came and never left your side" -Anonymous

"Friends are the sunshine of life" -John Hay

"Are we going to be friends forever?" asked Piglet "Even longer" Pooh answered -A.A. Milne (Winnie the Pooh)

"Your heart and my heart are very, very old friends" -Hafiz

Little Mia in one of her favorite places, in the ring sling, snuggled against me. Her friendship is missed everyday.

"Sometimes the smallest things take up the most room in your heart" -A.A. Milne (Winnie the Pooh)

We're Expecting!

This summer we've rescued dozens of does from a local slaughterhouse. The question we ask as we check each one in is always "Is she pregnant?" Well this summer we learned we're not so good at the guessing game. There were a number of does we thought were likely pregnant only to have pregnancy tests come back negative. Barbara even had to ask the lab "Are you sure?"

Last week much to our surprise one test came back positive! The surprising part was not that one is pregnant, in fact, we were surprised that more aren't expecting. There is no separation of does from bucks at the slaughterhouse. They're all thrown into pens together to fend for themselves. If the doe goes into heat, they're likely to be bred. So we wait 30 days from their arrival and test to see if in fact we've rescued more that just one.

Our surprise came when we learned that the expectant mother is Amelia, a skinny young Alpine cross that was rescued in July. Amelia is a real sweetheart, bright eyed and full of energy. Of all the does, she was one we least expected to have little ones on the way.

So what do we expect when we're expecting? A lot of waiting. If she was bred at the slaughterhouse, she'll kid around Christmas. Since we have no idea if she was bred there or before she was sent to auction, it could be anytime between now and then. She's receiving lots of extra groceries to help her gain weight and nourish the growing baby (or babies). We'll keep a close eye on her for signs that she could be getting close to kidding, at which time she'll move into a maternity part of the barn. The baby monitors get turned on every night and we continue to wait.

The other surprise in store....we have no idea what breed the buck was. More unknowns. What we do know though, is Amelia's little ones will never know the carelessness and fear their mother has experienced. They will know comfort and security and a lot of love from the minute they arrive in the world. They will get to live out their lives together, as a family, safe and cared for. Congratulations Amelia, we can't wait to meet your little family!