Meet The Animals
The animals at our sanctuary are more than residents—they're family, and we do more than just feed them. We personally interact with every one of them daily. And yes, they all know their names—including our 11 goats!
Our goal is to nurture a peaceful environment where our animals enjoy one another’s company and feel truly at home. Each one is given space to thrive in a setting suited to their personality, with care and attention that is tailored to their unique needs.
Where do our animals come from? Many have arrived from within our local community. Some have been surrendered. Some have been re-homed to us for a small fee. We keep the details private out of respect for those involved.
What matters most is that we have the opportunity to offer them kindness, care, and a fresh start. They’re here now—safe, loved, and living the lives they deserve.
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Charlotte and Dakota
Our two horses, both in their early twenties, joined our sanctuary family in late October 2023. They came to us through our farrier who had taken them in separately when each was in need of a new home. The two horses quickly formed a deep bond and have been inseparable ever since.
Winter was just starting to set in when Charlotte and Dakota arrived, and we worked quickly to build a warm, comfortable shed to call their own and to create a peaceful, private pasture for them to roam.
Now fully retired, they enjoy their days side by side. Their needs are met, their days are calm, and their friendship is strong. They truly are living their best life.
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Myron
Our one and only donkey, Myron, is a true character. He arrived at Country Meadows in November 2022 at just 15 months old. Though full-grown, he was still very much a baby at heart, complete with milk teeth and occasional toddler-style tantrums.
Myron was raised by a local family to guard their sheep from coyotes but, like many young male donkeys, he became overly assertive and unintentionally posed a risk to the flock he was meant to protect. He also discovered how to let himself out of the pasture and take solo strolls down the highway—making him quite the liability.
Because of his strong-willed nature and territorial tendencies, Myron wasn’t suited for life as a farm guardian or pet, but here at the sanctuary he’s found the perfect home with a private corral and a cozy shed all to himself. During warmer months, he spends his days pasturing with access to a neighboring field where he can choose to mingle with the other equines—or not.
Myron may have had a rocky start, but today, he’s living a safe, comfortable life on his own terms—and we wouldn’t have it any other way.
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Layla
Meet Layla—our pint-sized sweetheart with a big personality! Standing just 33 inches tall, this charming little pony joined the sanctuary in the spring of 2023, shortly after Myron arrived.
Layla was originally purchased as a companion for a larger horse and as a riding pony for her previous owner's children. When the kids lost interest and a new horse was brought into the mix, Layla needed a new home. Because of her delicate size, her past experience with lameness (foundering), and her incredibly gentle nature, her owner was very thoughtful and selective about where she would go next. We’re honored the owner chose us.
The sanctuary has turned out to be the perfect fit for Layla. She shares a special bond with Myron the donkey, and their shelters are connected by a gate so they can visit and nuzzle each other. During the day, Layla roams the barnyard and nearby property, enjoying her freedom but always staying close to home. Each night she’s safely tucked into the barn alongside her animal friends.
Layla may be little, but her presence is mighty—and she’s truly cherished here.
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Our Goats
Meet our spirited herd of 11 miniature goats: Juniper, Martha-Helen, Pearl, Itsy Bitsy, Mable, Dehlia, Rueben, Clementine, Jasmine, Baxter, and Beatrice. Most are Nigerian Pygmies or Nigerian Dwarfs—each with a unique personality and story.
Many of our goats were born into difficult circumstances. Some were destined to be used for meat while others were overbred and developed health issues that made them unsuitable for breeding or sale. One of our tiniest residents, Clementine, is a perfect example. She’s fully grown at just 16 inches tall and simply too petite for most farm purposes. But here, she’s cherished just the way she is.
Unlike traditional farms, we provide our goats with their own stall—or they share one with a bonded companion. Goats can be naturally competitive, especially when it comes to food or a cozy resting spot. By giving them their own space, we ensure peaceful mealtimes, comfortable naps, and equal access to everything they need.
When the weather is dry and mild (goats aren’t fans of rain or snow), the herd is free to roam and graze around the sanctuary. They love exploring the barnyard and lounging near the house (and occasionally sampling the landscaping!). As evening approaches, they return on their own to their stalls where they’re fed and safely tucked in for the night.
With freedom to graze, play, and rest in comfort and safety, these goats are truly living their best lives—and we’re honored to share it with them.
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Nyah
Formerly known as Sadie, Nyah joined our sanctuary family in February 2024 at just 11 months old. Her early life was marked by neglect. She and her brother Rider were acquired as puppies and left to fend for themselves, enduring freezing winters and sweltering summers without food, water, or shelter. Despite this, their loyalty kept them near the home they knew.
Thankfully, caring neighbors stepped in. They took turns providing food and water, and one generous couple even bought a doghouse filled with straw to help the pups stay warm. Animal control was eventually contacted, but tragically action wasn’t taken until Rider was struck and killed by a truck.
Sadie was taken to an overcapacity shelter that could only hold her for two days. Through a compassionate network of animal lovers and dedicated neighbors, our sanctuary was contacted—and we knew she belonged here.
She has finally found a loving home of peace and comfort that she deserves.
