Original Article: https://blog.theanimalrescuesite.greatergood.com/rescue-lamb-sleepover/

Building a strong friendship with an animal has got to be one of the most amazing things in life. Even though you don’t exactly talk to each other, there’s this deep connection that makes the bond grow tighter. They say the animal is blessed when adopted by the right person. But humans are also grateful for the existence of their animal friends. The bond helps both of them grow mentally and emotionally. You don’t just learn responsibility — you’ll also learn how to love right.

Lauren has been thankful for her little lamb that is the sunshine in her life. She manages a farm sanctuary named HodgePodge Farm and Rescue. From horses to goats, she takes them in, especially when those animals have nowhere to go. For this reason, Ivy, the young lamb, was given to them on Christmas Eve. Lauren’s friend called her and asked if she could take Ivy in since the lamb isn’t suitable for livestock.

“She was maybe 2 pounds. She was teeny, teeny, tiny. It broke my heart, and I thought, ‘We’re going to make all of it right.’” Lauren said. Since then, the sanctuary manager has become Ivy’s mother. The two would go on sleepovers and cuddle in blankets. Lauren loves to accompany Ivy when she’s asleep, and also, it’s necessary for the baby lamb. She explained that parental comfort and warmth are vital for babies. A mother’s existence is important — Lauren was willing to do that for Ivy.

“I literally bottle-fed her and put her to bed like a human child,” she said. “Every day, Ivy just wants to be with Mama. She will follow me anywhere that I go.” Lauren added. Ivy really felt at home in her mom’s sanctuary. She grew up into the friendliest lamb — Ivy would go around the farm and make friends.

Lauren nurtured Ivy with lots of affection and validation that she has enough love to share with those around her. The friendly lamb even has her best bud, a rescue dog, Junie, Lauren’s terrier. Aside from their mom, Ivy is always seen with Junie. The two have built this sibling/best friend bond — the farm is their little adventure land.

“I’m incredibly, incredibly lucky. Ivy has taught me how amazing it is to be loved wholly and completely. That’s her gift to me.” Lauren lovingly said. It’s magical to love and be loved. Lauren and Ivy are blessed to have each other in their lives. For the kindness Lauren has shown to the animals she rescued, she deserves to be rewarded with the most incredible gift.

To help Lauren manage the farm, get involved by sending in donations or sponsoring an HPF resident. You can reach out to them through their socials, Facebook, and Instagram. Get to know more friends from Lauren’s animal sanctuary and be updated about Ivy’s life on the farm.

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Source: The Animal Rescue Site Blog