Breezy Acres Tips and Tales

Blackie’s second chance

By CHELSEA GRASSE
Posted 5/12/21

Blackie and Brownie, both Nigerian dwarf mixes, became part of the family in 2011 when they were bought from River Brook Farm in Cochecton, NY. Blackie, Brownie, Floyd and a dozen other goats were …

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Breezy Acres Tips and Tales

Blackie’s second chance

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Blackie and Brownie, both Nigerian dwarf mixes, became part of the family in 2011 when they were bought from River Brook Farm in Cochecton, NY. Blackie, Brownie, Floyd and a dozen other goats were rescued by River Brook Farm when they realized that the goats were being abused and neglected at another location. When the farm took in these goats, Blackie was completely blind, his eyes fully clouded over, and he had a very difficult time finding his way around the new farm with only his other senses. He also had a terrible bout of worms and very overgrown hooves.

My boss at the time was able to nurse the sick goats back to health and treat Blackie’s eyes so he could see again. Eventually, I fell in love with the three boys and took them home to our place. Blackie had always been more stand-offish than the rest of them. I think it was because he didn’t trust us and was scared we would harm him because of his past experiences.  

It took a great deal of determination and multiple attempts to get close to Blackie in the beginning, but over the years, he has become very comfortable with us and has made an incredible bond with Daisy the donkey, who loves and protects him. Whenever he is feeling uncomfortable, he hides behind his protector until she shows him that he is safe from whoever/whatever is making him nervous. Blackie will take treats from us and let us pet him, but only when he feels like allowing us!

He has come a long way since 2011, meeting many new friends and visitors without feeling scared and receiving lots of love, hugs and treats.

Some of Blackie’s favorite things are carrots, whole corn, celery, being brushed, sunbathing, pricker bushes, sleeping on top of the hay box, jumping and bumping heads with the other boys, and snuggling with his brother, Brownie.

goats, farm

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