What would you do if you saw a stray goat, alone and starving in a shopping center parking lot?
Unbelievably, many people did nothing.
Last July, Darla, a young Alpine/Oberhasli mix female goat, was found by the local animal shelter as a stray behind a Target department store in the town of Hollister.
When found, Darla was emaciated and very scared. She likely survived by eating trash and other unhealthy items that were damaging her digestive system.
Hollister Animal Shelter took Darla in and immediately provided essential care. A veterinarian diagnosed her with mastitis (a serious infection of her udder) and poor rumen function. She received medical care, along with supplements and probiotics, to help improve her rumen function.
After a few weeks, Darla began to trust her caregivers, and the shelter felt she was ready to go to a sanctuary for long-term care. Thankfully, Goatlandia has built relationships with local municipal shelters and other rescues, including Hollister Animal Shelter. They contacted Goatlandia, and we were excited to welcome Darla and continue her care and rehabilitation. Since Darla was a stray, her poor health is due to a lack of nutrients from a proper diet. Needless to say, eating garbage in a shopping center parking lot is not good for goats!
Now at Goatlandia, she is eating the proper food along with excellent probiotics, immune support and feed supplements, and a little alfalfa — everyone’s favorite!
