Campers attending Nature Explorer Week at The Hochstein School were in for a surprise when Joy, one of Lollypop Farm’s beloved animal ambassadors, made a special appearance alongside Mary, our Farm Manager, and members of our Humane Education team.
From the moment she walked in, Joy was the star of the show. “The camp counselors were lined up to greet her, and Joy walked straight in with confidence,” Mary states.
Joy is a Nigerian Dwarf goat who serves as one of Lollypop Farm’s animal ambassadors. Through positive reinforcement training, Joy has learned a variety of behaviors that help create engaging educational experiences for children and adults alike.
As campers gathered in the auditorium, they learned fascinating facts about goats and discovered the many ways Lollypop Farm cares for animals in our community. While Humane Educator Alyssa shared information, Joy demonstrated targeting and her “handshake” through positive reinforcement.
One of the important lessons Joy teaches is bodily autonomy, showing that animals can communicate their needs or desires through their body language. This is a lesson that students can remember for years to come, all while having a fun experience meeting and interacting with an adorable friend like Joy.
These moments may seem simple, but they’re the foundation of a more compassionate community. Every child who learns to treat animals with empathy today becomes an adult who understands the importance of respect, responsibility, and compassion tomorrow.
We’re so grateful to The Hochstein School for welcoming Joy and our Humane Education team for such a memorable visit, and we can’t wait for the next adventure. Thanks to friends like you, Joy and the Humane Education team are able to bring lessons like this to students throughout Greater Rochester year-round and provide learning opportunities to the next generation of animal lovers.
