Emily and her goats are a family. They arrived at Darrowby in January of 2022 after being the pets of an elderly owner who knew that finding them a new home was the best thing for everyone’s future.
Emily has the temperament of an affectionate cat; she sidles up to us to receive scritches on her neck and back, and backs into our hands if we stop too soon. She has a significant weight issue to manage, as so many donkeys, who are desert animals, do when fed a lifetime of rich grass. She’s receiving treatment to support her thyroid and her insulin, which we hope will help improve her fallen crest (the mane line along an equine’s neck, which falls out of shape in cases of metabolic trouble).
While many people think it’s a good idea to pasture a donkey with smaller animals for protection, Emily has made it clear that she finds protection from her goat family. In situations of stress she could be found standing behind Mr. Tumnus, who was almost her size and, frankly, seemed a little overwhelmed by this promotion in rank. After losing Mr. Tumnus last winter, Emily took on an active role as mother to the steers. She has raised Bertie Wooster, Jake, and Jordan since their calfhood, and teaches them manners and safety precautions. They will never be separated, and will continue their lives as the family they are.