Easter Lambs

By Chris R.

Easter Saturday was a beautifully sunny day, which was soon to become busy – and more beautiful - with the arrival of two energetic six week old lambs. These tiny twins had been recently rescued from a farm where they were living in a small shed and bottle fed twice a day after they lost their mum at birth. Their rescuer had dropped in to buy sheep manure at the farm, spying the pair peeking out from a rustic enclosure.When asked about the lambs, the farmer quickly deemed them an inconvenience and destined for the unmentionable. The visitor drove from the property not only with her bags of sheep manure but also the two woolly bundles in the back of the car. An everyday event turned miracle for the two babies, now named Peter and April.  

April was slightly larger and louder than her little brother, with a bolder personality and greater confidence. Peter was shy.  He was also irritated by his tail, upon which a band had been placed.  April had lost her tail to her band, but Peter’s was still attached and causing him agitation. Both had upset tummies, most likely a result of incorrect feeding and stress. After a fresh bottle of formula, a clean and brush, and having a jumper fitted to keep them warm, it was noticed that the cause of Peter’s great agitation was maggots in his sore tail. We swung into action to clean the area thoroughly and after consultation with our vet, commenced pain relief and antibiotics. In just two hours, the exhausted Peter and sister April were fast asleep, catching up on long awaited rest.

Peter and April have grown quickly. They had their first outing just two days after arrival, visiting the vet clinic for a health check and vaccination.  Both were excited to meet the vet and students and happy for extra attention during their examination. Following Easter came rain and cold nights, which meant both lambs stayed in our warm house. Neither seemed to mind, snuggling with their bear, watching everyone with interest and calling loudly at volunteers as they worked. The Easter twins have found home - thanks to the kindness of strangers, it was time for new beginnings in the Valley of Hope.