Original Article: https://blog.theanimalrescuesite.greatergood.com/gertie-goat/

Animals are capable of tender, loving care just like humans.

In fact, there are some of them who can show such self-sacrificing love which many people find incredible like in the case of octopuses and seahorses.

Among these incredible animal parents is Gertie the Goat, who raised a blind son with such love and devotion that is worthy of admiration and emulation.

How Gertie the Goat Wisely and Lovingly Raised Her Blind Son

When Gertie the Goat first arrived in CAPEanimals nine years ago, she had a fractured pelvis. She was accompanied by Stevie, a blind kid, whom the farmer had also brought along for CAPE to adopt so the two goats could receive proper care.

Stevie was one of Gertie’s last three kids. Having spent her entire life for breeding purposes, Gertie’s body finally gave out during her last pregnancy, resulting in a fractured pelvis. Also, one of her babies was born with a congenital visual defect.

CAPEanimals took in both Gertie and Stevie and provided them with all the love and care they needed.

What touched the hearts of the staff at the CAPEanimals was the depth of love Gertie showed to her blind son. She was still recovering from her fractured pelvis, but Gertie was doing her best to take care of Stevie.

As Stevie grew up, Gertie wore a bell to train her son on how to find his way in the sanctuary pastures. Slowly, Stevie learned to be independent and he was a remarkable goat at 230 pounds with shiny, reddish-brown coat.

CAPEanimals and Gertie could not be prouder!

How Gertie the Great Mom Overcame Grief and Let Go

Time went by, and there had been occasions when Gertie became ill. The staff at CAPEanimals were worried that she might pass away. But Gertie always summoned the strength to recover to make everyone happy.

But, last January, it was Stevie who became very sick. The vets kept a close eye on him, trying to figure out his mysterious illness. It was only after some time they discovered that Stevie had been afflicted with a rare type of blood cancer.

Everyone was overwhelmed with grief. Gertie stayed by her son’s side until the last moment. They were all gathered together when Stevie must be put to sleep already to relieve his pain. Their human friends took turns checking on Gertie to make sure that she was alright after losing her son.

Gertie seems to have accepted the reality with a resilient spirit. She has started seeking joy in the company of other goats and by basking in the beauty of nature. She now also sleeps with Howard the pig as a caring companion.

Seeing how well she has been dealing with grief, CAPEanimals are loving Gertie even more.

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Source: The Animal Rescue Site Blog