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Humane Society of Greater Rochester

In May, Lollypop Farm received an unexpected call. A goat was on the loose at a local golf course! We assembled a team, but the crafty goat quickly ditched the fairway for the woods, leaving everyone in the rough.

A few days later, he showed up in someone’s backyard. Thankfully, the homeowners were able to entice the goat to follow them into a fenced-in pool area with some watermelon. A team of two came to the property to bring the goat to Lollypop, but he was even more difficult to catch in the fenced-in area! The little (and fast!) goat was scared and not sure who to trust. One of the team members, who finally caught the goat, named him Digby.

Once at Lollypop Farm, Digby wasted no time making himself at home. He discovered that goat treats are best enjoyed straight from the hand and even started sporting a halter, the latest barnyard fashion. The staff is now teaching him the art of walking on a halter and lead rope.

There was just one final step in getting him ready for a new home: Digby was an intact male. After his shots and a quick neuter, he was ready to join the rest of the goat herd and make new friends.

Digby’s tale is a bleating reminder: always do your homework before adding a new family member! His original owners didn’t have the right setup, or even the zoning, to care for a goat. Goats can be escape artists, so ensuring a safe space is very important. As adorable as those fluffy faces are, it’s best to check your local barnyard bylaws and make sure you’re ready for farm life before bringing home a hoofed companion!