06/21/2025
This week has been by far the hardest we’ve encountered in our entire lives of livestock ownership. Monday, we noticed Sophia going into labor, after an hour of no progress, we pulled her into the barn to find the calf backwards and upside down. Despite our attempts of repositioning the baby with the expert help of RCM Miniature Cattle Company, we called the emergency vet. Baby was able to be delivered, but unfortunately passed. At that time, while we were disappointed with the loss of the calf, I was so thankful that Sophia was okay. Tuesday came around and she had drank some, but still was not eating.
 After the event with Sophia, we collaborated with our veterinary staff and decided that we would perform an elective C-section on Beatrice. Her calf was in the incorrect birthing position as well. This gave us the best opportunity at saving mom and baby.
The c-section was successful, and given the size of the calf was definitely the right choice. Sadly, Beas baby passed shortly after it was born.
 Again, in the midst of the tragedy, I was thankful we at least have saved the mamas.
 Thursday came around, and Sophia was still not eating the way she should. We made the decision to load her up and take her to Penn University’s New Bolton Center, four hours away.
We moved as quickly as possible to get her out there as fast as we could.  Sophia walked onto that trailer like the sweet angel she was. We we arrived to the center, she had passed some time along the way. 
This week has made me question just about everything. It has been fillied with great sadness, tears, anger, and everything in between. One thing is for sure, there is nothing we don’t do to give these animals EVERY CHANCE THEY HAVE to save them. There is no distance, no mediation, nothing that we won’t try. They are family, they are loved, and when we lose them it is HARD.
We will take all the prayers we can get, because calving season still isn’t over. Bea is recovering beautifully from her operation and we are so thankful for that!
Sophia, you were the best girl, kind, loving, patient, and never had a bad hair day. This place won’t be the same without you.
