Yesterday was a sad day for the farm.
We said our final goodbye to our oldest (and one of our very first) fainting goats... O'Malley.
Malley was born on St. Patrick's Day of 2007,
and came to live on the farm at the beginning of that summer.
Of the countless goats we raised, here on the farm, Malley was, by far, the friendliest.
When we had children visit the farm, we could always count on Malley to let them pet her. Malley was always willing to participate with our shenanigans.
During her earlier years, she birthed several sets of twins...
the last being Fred and Sally. Sally remains with us to this day.
The decision to say goodbye to a pet and end their suffering is never an easy decision. In the end, it is the last, kindest thing that we can do for our beloved animals. I have witnessed the assisted passing of many animals and it has always been peaceful.
Malley's daughter, Sally, was by her side as she passed and seemed to understand that her Momma was leaving us. Sally has never known life without her Momma, so I am sure this will be a an adjustment.
So that Sally is not alone, we moved her to the largest goat pen with Sissy and Gracie. These three girls are now the last of our fainting goat herd. They are all over ten years of age.
I spent a little time looking at photos of O'Malley's life... a little trip down Memory Lane. We have had so many goats over the years. Many of the babies were sold as pets, but some remained here on the farm. There was no time quite as fun as those days with bouncing baby goats!
Those that remained with us lived gentle, peaceful lives. They were always well cared-for.
So, although saying goodbye is sad, I know in my heart that all of the animals, here on the farm, have had good lives and have always been treated with kindness and respect. This makes their passing easier to bear. If nothing else, farm life is a constant reminder of the circle of life. And as I have always said... the good far outweighs the bad!
Comments
Good and great life you provide for all . . .
The passing is sad. . . but “the time” for O’Malley . . .
Sad for you . . .
EDGAR C. BEARD