A Different Kind of Farm

It's been a long journey with Welles. After he and his brother, Orson were abandoned, City Goat Farm provided rescue and temporary foster while they waited for a permanent home. When Welles first arrived, he kept his distance. He wouldn't eat anything except plain feed, and we couldn't touch him — not for medical care, and not even to comfort him. When he and Orson started fighting last year, he was so depressed we didn't know how we could help him. Now, nearly two years since they first came to City Goat, everything has changed. After months of tension, the boys have reconciled and settled into a peaceful routine. They love treats, scratches, and even the company of the chickens. I think they know they're home. Here’s Welles this evening, taking a quiet walk as the sun sets — a reminder of how far love and patience can go.

Maybe not Brie and Hildy’s most photogenic day, but this quiet moment from this afternoon says everything. This is what rescue means to us. In most farm settings, moms and babies don’t get to stay together—many never even meet. But these two did. And they always will.

Still cold, but at least we have sunshine today! 🌞 Getting through this week and hoping spring will be here to stay. 🌱

It’s with a heavy heart that we share the loss of our dear Franklin. At just 1 year old, she developed an infection and passed away within days. The necropsy showed her organs were in very bad shape, a sad reminder of the toll on the bodies of domestic turkeys that have been bred for production, not health. Franklin was the early leader of the flock, friendly and curious, and always first in line whether for snacks or hugs. While we can’t save every animal, we do our best to give them the best life we can while they’re with us. Franklin was here for a short time, but we’re grateful for the companionship and freedom she had in her short life. We’ll miss you, Franklin. You brought a lot of joy, and we treasure your memory. ☀️

We're excited to share City Goat Farm's 2024 Annual Report, sharing reflections from the past year and plans for 2025! THANK YOU for your support and compassion for all animals. Sign up for our quarterly newsletter Barnyard Bulletin to get animal updates straight to your inbox. 📥 🔗 in profile

🐖 Update on Orson & Welles 🐷 We've been nervous to share this, but… In December, they broke through a heavy-duty farm gate and began fighting. When we realized and rushed out to intervene, we were stunned to find them acting like nothing had ever happened. After months of fighting, vet visits, blood tests, and SO much stress… they made their peace. It took a few cautious days to settle back into routine, but they are inseparable once again: eating together, sleeping together, and the veil of depression and sadness over them has finally been lifted. Thanks to your support, Orson and Welles have found their home for life. We can't wait to get to work in the spring on a permanent, combined space for them to enjoy right here on the farm. Drop a note in the comments with your well wishes for reunited besties! 🎉 #farmsanctuary #animalrescue #pigfriends #happyending