October 3, 2024
Olivia, an 8-year-old Saanen goat, has found her forever home at Herbivorous Acres, a sanctuary devoted to giving farmed animals a second chance. She’s now known as the “mother” of the sanctuary, loved by all who meet her.
Olivia’s journey to this peaceful place began in 2019 when she and her son, Lucky, were rescued from a Wisconsin dairy farm. In a rare and heartwarming outcome, both goats were surrendered together by the farmer, allowing them to stay side by side — something that doesn’t often happen in factory farming.
A Rare Bond: Olivia and Lucky’s Journey Together
In the world of industrial farming, baby animals are often separated from their mothers shortly after birth, treated as commodities rather than sentient beings. Olivia and Lucky’s story is a touching exception. Their bond has remained unbroken since their rescue, and now, they get to spend every day together in the serene environment of Herbivorous Acres. They’re often seen side by side, soaking up the sunshine or grazing in the fields, enjoying the simple pleasures of their new life.
Olivia’s Health Struggles and Triumphs
When Olivia arrived at the sanctuary, she was in very poor health. Severely malnourished and suffering from two incurable diseases: CAE (Caprine Arthritis and Encephalitis) and CL (Caseous Lymphadenitis), she faced challenges. These diseases, common in goats, are often a death sentence on factory farms, as infected animals are typically euthanized to prevent spreading to the rest of the herd. But at Herbivorous Acres, Olivia was given the care and attention she needed to survive and eventually thrive.
Over several months, the sanctuary’s staff worked tirelessly to treat her various ailments, including an infestation of parasites and lice. Thanks to dedicated vet care, her diseases were brought under control, and Olivia regained her strength. Now, five years later, she continues to thrive. Sanctuary staff manage her symptoms with regular medication and Olivia enjoys a high quality of life.
Olivia’s Favorite Activities and Personality
These days, Olivia is fully embracing sanctuary life. One of her favorite pastimes is soaking up the sun, no matter how warm the day gets. She loves to stretch out in the sunshine, often with Lucky close by. Her sweet, nurturing personality has made her a beloved figure at the sanctuary. Olivia’s affection for humans shines through whenever she receives a good chest or tush scratch — her tail wags with joy! She’s also a fan of food, especially her favorite snack: a veggie salad topped with apples.
The Impact of Olivia’s Rescue: A Story of Second Chances
Olivia’s story is a reminder of the incredible transformations that can happen when animals are given a second chance. In the harsh world of factory farming, her fate could have been much different. But thanks to Herbivorous Acres, Olivia and Lucky were rescued, rehabilitated, and given the opportunity to live out their lives in peace. Their journey highlights the importance of sanctuaries that work to save farmed animals from cruelty, providing them with love, care, and dignity.
What Herbivorous Acres Does for Rescued Animals
Herbivorous Acres, a nonprofit sanctuary, is dedicated to rescuing farmed animals from cruelty and neglect. They offer a permanent, loving home for animals who have endured the hardships of factory farming. Currently, the sanctuary is home to 20 animals, including goats, pigs, ducks, hens, roosters, and even a cow. The sanctuary’s mission is to provide a safe space for these animals to live out their lives with peace and dignity, while also raising awareness about the importance of compassionate treatment for farmed animals.
Herbivorous Acres’ efforts extend beyond just caring for animals. Their goal is to shift how society views farmed animals, encouraging people to see them as sentient beings deserving of respect and compassion. The sanctuary aims to inspire change by leading through example, showing that peace begins on your plate.
Other Residents of Herbivorous Acres
Olivia and Lucky aren’t the only animals whose lives have been transformed by Herbivorous Acres. The sanctuary is home to other animals, each with their own story of rescue and renewal. Some of the sanctuary’s other beloved residents include:
Cornelius and Dennis, the roosters
These animals, like Olivia, have found safety and care at Herbivorous Acres, where they can live free from the fear and suffering of factory farming.
Our partner farm sanctuaries
Herbivorous Acres is just one of several farm sanctuaries in the region doing incredible work to protect farmed animals. Other sanctuaries such as Chicken Run Rescue, Farmaste, Soulspace, and Spring Farm are also dedicated to providing safe, loving homes for animals in need. Compassionate Action for Animals (CAA) regularly highlights these sanctuaries and their residents, celebrating the lives they’ve saved and the impact they’re making. Every month, CAA features a sanctuary resident in their blog and newsletter, giving readers a glimpse into the lives of these amazing animals.
Check our blog page regularly and sign up for our weekly newsletter so you don’t miss any of the endearing stories of residents of local sanctuaries.
Connect With Compassionate Action for Animals
Compassionate Action for Animals (CAA) hosts many events throughout the year, including Twin Cities Veg Fest, Vegan Recipe Club, cooking classes, potlucks, outreach events, and so much more! CAA’s work includes outreach events, educational initiatives, and activities that help build community around plant-based living and animal advocacy.
To stay informed about upcoming events and new sanctuary residents, follow CAA on social media or visit their website. Follow Compassionate Action for Animals on TikTok | Instagram | Facebook | Online