Happy First Birthday Maggie Mae!

Labelle, a two year old goat who was diagnosed with a contagious viral disease called Caprine Arthritis Encephalitis (CAE), surprised us one year ago with the birth of her baby at the CAPE Animal Sanctuary. Before being rescued, Labelle was given a full health check and ultrasound to check for pregnancy. It was confirmed that she was not believed to be pregnant, so when we found Labelle lying next to a perfectly clean newborn baby, we were SHOCKED.

Thankfully both Mama and baby have been healthy and strong for the past year. One of CAPE’s wonderful volunteers named the baby Maggie Mae and she is an absolute delight! She bounces and runs and looks like she may take flight with her magnificent ears. Maggie’s meeting all milestones for growth, and is as goofy as they come. She absolutely adores her mother, who is loving, patient and protective. They are deeply bonded to one another and spend their days playing, soaking up sunshine and cuddling in their stall. Most goats who are diagnosed with CAE are sadly killed. Sometimes the whole herd is culled.

​With proper care and protection, goats with CAE can go on to live long lives with this disease. Only a small percentage of goats show clinical signs of CAE which can be represented by arthritis and respiratory issues. We built a separate enclosure on the upper pasture several years ago for Labelle and Maggie, mother and daughter, who will get to spend their lives together. If you would like to support animals like Labelle and Maggie, please donate today at www.capeanimals.org/make-a-donation1