Laughter is always the best medicine and I highly recommend it as a daily part of your self-care routine. Finding the humor in any situation will help put a spring in your step and take on any challenge.
If you haven’t had a chuckle all ready today, check out Dover from The Haven Zoo being silly for the camera!
As far as goat breeds go, Nigerian Dwarfs have become one of the most popular – just look at that little smile from Della! People tend to like them because they don’t require as much space as other goats given their smaller size, plus they actually produce a bit of milk if cared for properly. In addition, they are known for having sweet personalities making them excellent companions for small-scale homesteaders. And of course, they are absolutely adorable.
Thank you again to The Haven Zoo for sharing these lovely photos of their newest residents this week. If you would like to support Della and her friends, please consider making a donation, or even sponsoring the herd!
I am pleased to announce some new additions to the menagerie at The Haven Zoo!
Della and Dover are 9 week old Nigerian dwarf twins who recently relocated to The Haven. Della is named after the state of Delaware, US and Dover is named after a town in Ohio, places that are special to the founders of The Haven. Della is dark brown with black spots and blue eyes and loves to climb. Dover is white with black and brown spots and is super bouncy. You can support Della, Dover and all the rest of the Haven Zoo by donating here.
Sometimes it is hard to keep to a safe distance. Take Pam, Angela and Ellen here for example – they are not keeping a llama distance apart! With the first day of spring upon us, it can be hard to not get out and about as the world comes back from winter.
However, The Haven Zoo has created an opportunity to spend some extra time with their menagerie! For $5, you can book an enrichment with the animal of your choice! The Haven will send you a video of our furry friends engaging in a special activity or treat, personalised just for you. They also have virtual tours and other opportunities for socially distant, remote activities during social distancing efforts, click here to book.
We are going to pause our March of Pigs for an opportunity for some quarantine fun and fundraising.
Cooped up inside, being socially distant, canceling plans, routines and holidays can be a huge bummer. Take a break from the chaos and enjoy a virtual tour of The Haven Zoo!
Just like everyone, the Haven is doing its part to support social distancing to stop the spread of coronavirus, and have closed their gates to in-person visitors. However, the Haven relies on donations to keep the animals healthy and fed. So you can support the Haven AND continue to practice good social distancing by booking a virtual tour of the zoo plus a special viewing of feeding time! Book your virtual tour here.
Scientists and public health experts have asked that we all keep at least six feet or two meters apart from one another. That can be a bit difficult to visualize. Perhaps some of our camelid pals from the Haven can help us out – a llama is about six feet long, so maintain a llama distance apart to stay safe and stop the spread! And of course, keep washing your hands.
After a major event, a big trip or something really demanding, the best way to celebrate is to make sure to get adequate rest. It is totally ok to put your feet up sometimes even if you have other things you could do. Getting enough rest and relaxation can help you be stronger and more productive overall. Take a hint from Avery the official spokespig of The Haven Zoo, having a cuddle under the blankets can be the best way to recharge!
Meet Avery, the official spokespig of the Haven Zoo. She is a friendly, miniature pot-bellied pig who enjoys a few special privileges such as spending time in doors. She helped promote the Haven before they acquired the land that the goat herd, pigs, llamas, donkey, horses and a few primates now enjoy. When she is not promoting the Haven, she enjoys sleeping, eating, hanging out with her puppy friends, and getting into shenanigans like opening cabinets and rifling through the trash. To be fair, I also enjoy sleeping, eating, hanging out with puppies and shenanigans too. Avery is such a character that even her parrot friend has learned to yell “Avery!”
Not only is The Haven Zoo home to a herd of lovely goats, but it has also given a home to a few pigs as well. Meet Logan (left) and Delilah (right), representing half of a foursome of goats that the Haven rescued from an extreme hoarding incident in Kentucky. Authorities found 458 pot-bellied pigs being kept, most malnourished and in a state of distress. Sadly, the farm had been opened with the intention of rescuing the pigs but breeding got way out of hand. Fortunately, the Haven was able to step in and rescue a few pigs who now have a lovely pasture to roam around in rain or shine.
To support the Haven and its efforts to provide animals with a good home, a nutritious diet and access to veterinary care please consider making a donation.
Elvis was the eldest member of the goat herd at The Haven Zoo. When he first arrived at The Haven, he wasn’t quite sure about his new home and was a bit skittish, but eventually settled into sanctuary life. He was known for his rockin’ hairstyle and made caprine friends with Jim and Bernie. Yesterday, a generous volunteer donated squash and broccoli which Elvis enjoyed.
At the ripe old age of thirteen, Elvis lived a good long, life. Sadly, today he has moved on to a different sanctuary beyond. He passed away being cared for by the loving and dedicated staff at The Haven and beside his pal Bernie. He will be missed by all.
February in the northern hemisphere can be quite grey, chilly and blustery. Don’t fear though, behind the wind, rain, snow and clouds the sun is still there. Need proof? The herd from the Haven Zoo enjoyed some lovely sunshine this afternoon. Soon enough, the sun will be back in your corner of the world.
Goat of the Day 