Menagerie of farm animals surrendered to MSPCA in bitter temps need new homes

WCVB

Published Feb 3, 2021 

METHUEN — A menagerie of adorable farm animals rescued from a central Massachusetts property last week and are now seeking new homes, according to the MSPCA.

The animals, which include five pygmy goats, 11 chickens and six ducks, are now being cared for at Nevins Farm in Methuen after being surrendered during last week's bitter cold temperatures.

The animals are in relatively good condition, but some are underweight and have minor health issues, such as overgrown hooves and scabby skin. The MSPCA will address these health concerns prior to placing them into loving adoptive homes.

The goats, which range in age from one to four years old, are pygmies and Nigerian dwarf crosses — breeds that are popular with adopters because of their small size and gentle, curious personalities, the MSPCA said.

“The goats will make a wonderful addition to any existing herd—and we expect to place them in pairs or with adopters already keeping goats,” said Mike Keiley, director of adoption centers and programs at the MSPCA.

The 11 chickens add to the 55 roosters and hens already sheltering at Nevins Farm, also seeking permanent homes.

The six ducks, likely Rouen Crosses, are approximately eight months old. They are the healthiest of all of the animals and are ready to go home immediately, the MSPCA said.

The identity of the animals’ previous owners has not been made public, and no charges have been filed.

“In this instance, the owners struggled with the physical care of the farm animals and needed the MSPCA’s assistance, and they ultimately decided to surrender the animals to our care. Our focus now is on nursing them back to excellent health before finding them new homes,” Keiley said.

Anyone interested in adopting the animals can contact Nevins Farm at: www.mspca.org/nevinsadoptioninquiry.