It was the Spring of 2015 when I had my first inspiration of starting a farm animal sanctuary. Though we had an acre of land, we basically still lived in the city, so there would have to be a fair amount of change to make this new dream a reality. The more serious I got about the idea, the more we wanted to learn and inquire before just doing it. This led me to a month long internship with a farm animal sanctuary in California. The experience was monumental for so many reasons, but the most valuable experience I had was falling in love with a little goat named, Rosie. Rosie, became as precious to me as a child and I spent every extra waking minute I had of my internship with her. Rosie was a baby goat, who was blind and had some neurological issues as well. She was an amazing little being that was strong, courageous, sweet, docile, timid, and a great snuggler.

I could go on and on about Rosie and maybe that will be for another time, but she has been much of my inspiration in many different ways for Ridge 2 River Animal Haven, including the “2”. For most of Rosie’s life she lived alone. There were a few different reasons this was the case, but it broke my heart. Goats, and pretty much all animals used for farming, are herd animals. They enjoy socialization, company, and they form extremely tight bonds, just as we do with our friends and family. Living with another being helps make them feel safe, protected, comforted and loved. Because of my love for Rosie and knowing she was sad living her life alone, I vowed to her that animals in our care would never have to live alone. So, thanks to Rosie, the number two in ‘Ridge 2 River’ is to represent that all of our residents have at least one friend to be with always.

The only slight exception to this is Danger. She grew up in the shop by herself and lived on our property for many years before we did. The shop had been her home and we have made sure to leave it that way, only trying to improve her situation with heat, cooling, our company and a nice fort bed to sleep in. : ) She comes and goes anytime she pleases, day or night and though Yodi has tried to befriend her, she seems to have no interest in befriending him or any of the others

Virginia, unfortunately is still in quarantine while we await the health of Gene and Nan. We don’t want Virginia getting something new, so until she can be safely united with the other birds, she is alone. Knowing this is temporary and the best thing for her, it is still difficult for us to have her separated. We are doing the very best we possibly can to make this as short a time as possible.

We try to help with Virginia’s likely loneliness by giving her a stuffed animal duck in her house and a radio that plays music for her each day. She is within view and hearing distance of Gene and Nan, so they are able to communicate and see each other. We remain hopeful that this time is very close to its end and that she will be with her friends sooner than later.

Each bonded resident pair accompanies each other to vet appointments, reducing their stress and anxiety, providing as much comfort as possible. The “2” in Ridge 2 River represents our commitment to our residents that they will always have a friend.

Pooh Bear says it best,

“A day without a FRIEND is like a pot without a single drop of honey left inside.” ~ Pooh Bear

~Namaste

Why the “2” in Ridge 2 River?

As We Say Goodbye to 2020…

Turkey Day