NEWS - November 2010
Sonia the Show Jumping Sheep
When Sonia decided to scale the fence, thinking no doubt that the grass is always greener on the other side, she fell or rather became entangled at her first attempt tearing her Achilles tendon in the process. The vet was not overly hopeful but she did stitch the small and delicate tendon and immobilise Sonia’s leg in a cast. Sonia had to settle for hay and treats in the barn instead of grass but she seemed unperturbed by that. Several weeks later her tendon has actually repaired but, as you can see, Sonia still requires some leg support. She is a very lucky girl thanks to the skill and dedication of the vet and the care provided by the Sanctuary staff and volunteers. In the commercial world Sonia would have been sent for slaughter.
Sad Goodbyes
Dodo the ewe had been at the Sanctuary since she was a very small lamb. At eighteen years old she had had a secure and contented life. She enjoyed her porridge and the comfort of the barn, the companionship of our other elderly residents. One morning Dodo decided that she didn’t want her porridge any more so the vet came to ease Dodo into her final sleep.
Ginger the guinea pig came to the Sanctuary as an unwanted pet. She lived with five companions who gradually became two and then Ginger and her remaining friend lived happily with Priscilla the rabbit. At 7seven years old Ginger nodded off into her final sleep in her bed. We will be going to Guinea Pig rescue to find some new companions for Priscilla and Angela.
Leo the pig our big hearted boy arrived at the Sanctuary as small piglet who had been savaged by an unknown animal. He recovered form his shock and injuries and, falling in love with the girl or pig next door Vanessa, they lived blissfully together for seven years until Vanessa died. Leo was with us for twelve years. He was a sociable lad with people but never really liked the other pigs and we think he pinned for Vanessa for some time. He loved his food and his wallow in the summer months spending hours contentedly snoozing in the mud. I think that is how we shall all remember him.