Over 300 goats were found on condemned property in Scioto County. Many were dead, others were sick and dying. On February 15 2005, the owner of the goats had called the Ohio SPCA and asked for help.

Dead goats found on the condemned property.

Ohio SPCA volunteers immediately delivered hay and grain for the goats and assessed the situation. By this time, the Scioto County Health Department had also contacted us. Ohio SPCA volunteers first removed nannies and their kids upon request of the owner. The remainder of the goats were seized by Scioto County Humane Agents and were placed in the protective custody of the court and the Ohio SPCA.

Approximately 250 goats were removed from a Scioto County property. A large portion of the herd was moved to a safe location in Northern Ohio by Happy Trails Farm Sanctuary. Numerous nannies with kids, expectant nannies, and very ill goats were transported to OSU Veterinary Hospital or nearby farms of Ohio SPCA volunteers. The cost of veterinary care was high as all of the goats had to be wormed, treated for Coccidiosis, and tested or treated for other diseases. In July 2005, Happy Trails Farm Sanctuary decided that they could no longer care for the goats. The goats were moved to the Ohio SPCA animal sanctuary in Pickaway County.

Video of injured goat

On November 1st 2005, Chris Weathersbee entered a plea of “No Contest.” He was found guilty on five counts of animal cruelty and fined $75.00 plus court costs on each count.

Goats being bagged for necroposy to determing cause of death.

Weathersbee was placed on five years of probation and ordered to demonstrate a good faith effort to pay restitution for the rehabilitation and care of of the goats. The goats were surrendered to the Ohio SPCA.

The care and rehabilitation of these wonderful creatures has been a challenge for an all-volunteer organization. Many hours and many dollars have been donated by dedicated volunteers. Few organizations would have attempted to save the entire herd. It has been and continues to be a loving venture for all of us involved. Most of these goats have found approved forever homes, however some goats still must be placed. Monetary donations for routine and emergency medical bills along with donations of hay, grain, and straw are still desperately needed. Please help us to continue to care for these goats and the many other abused or neglected animals in our care.

Matilda, a black pygmy goat was wheeled into OSU Vet Hospital on a stretcher. Due to her weakened condition, it was 2 weeks before she could stand on her own. After three weeks, Matilda and two other goats were well enough to be transported to a foster home.

Matilda with Cureton

Matilda quickly made a new friend, Cureton. Although she’s missing part of an ear and patches of fur, Matilda was immediately loved by this little boy. This young child knew that this goat needed special care. Sensing that she was safe, Matilda quickly relaxed, rested her head on the child, and eventually closed her eyes to sleep. Before going off to bed himself, this three year old child made sure that Matilda was hugged, kissed, and snuggled into a bed of straw.

Billy with a new found friend

Billy has become the companion to an orphaned filly at OSU Veterinary Hospital. He’s still a “baby” (9 months) himself, so this has been a good match.

Early in the morning at OSU Veterinary Hospital on Saturday, March 19, Carmetta finally gave birth to three kids.

Carmetta now has kids!

Soon after, she was transported to her foster home. Mother and babies are doing fine at this time. Taylor, age 4, is helping to care for them. She even wanted to sleep in the barn with the goats.