From Meat to Miracle: Goats Saved from Slaughter Find New Home
Four young goats—Arnie, Patch, Bobby, and Bonnie—have dodged the butcher’s block thanks to Remus Horse Sanctuary. Originally raised for meat, these year-and-a-half-old goats escaped slaughter when their owners simply couldn’t go through with it.
Meet the Goats: Feast or Friends?
Arnie and Patch are Boer goats, a breed known for rapid growth and prime meat quality. Despite their origins in the meat industry, Boer goats actually hail from South Africa, where they helped local tribes manage the land.
The smaller duo, Bobby and Bonnie, are a Boer/Pygmy cross—explaining their cheeky, playful nature and pint-sized frames. All four goats are lively characters, full of mischief.
From Essex Smallholding to Happy Herd
Their original owners from Essex smallholding grew attached during care and just couldn’t stomach sending them to slaughter. The sanctuary gave the goats time in isolation before welcoming them into their larger herd.
“We were approached by our Farm Vet to see if we could offer these little goats a home,” said Sue Burton, founder of Remus Horse Sanctuary. “How could we say no? They’re just delightful little characters and we couldn’t possibly see them go to slaughter!
“Thankfully they integrated well with our existing herd and immediately made themselves at home! We look forward to introducing them to visitors at our first Open Day in May.”
Help the Goats and Support Remus Sanctuary
You can sponsor Arnie, Patch, Bobby, or Bonnie and support the sanctuary’s vital work. Visit www.remussanctuary.org or call Sue Burton on 01277 356191 for more details.
