Pets and Priorities

AS anyone who knows me knows, I have a lot of animals. They are not all technically pets but on our farm we have 43 animals. Not counting the Dog and chickens that live at the other house on the farm. So it can be very hard to prioritize our lives. But I feel like it's so so important to not only keep our animals alive but also to keep them happy. I know that God gave us dominion over all other animals but I feel like if I were them I would want someone to make sure I enjoyed my life as opposed to just living it.

So when I get home from work and I'm exhausted. I still spend time outside feeding the ducks and talking to them. They love when you bend down and tell them that you love them. They wag their tails like crazy. I make sure at least a few times a week to go see our momma cows and the bull because they have grown very attached to me and if I don't go see them then they get upset and break fences to come to me. So I make sure to go and feed them some squash and pet them and just make sure they are all healthy and not acting funny. I also make sure to spend time each day petting each of our three cats because they all love to soak up the mommy attention. And our dogs each get hugs and kisses all the time they both know how much I depend on them to cheer me up when I'm sad so the least I can do is make sure they are happy. I take our chicks out every couple of days to let them run around and try to fly. It's hectic but it keeps them happy!

Some people own animals but make them more like a decoration then a family member. My animals no matter if they are technically pets or not all know I love them and all get special treats and attention all the time! It's hard being on a beef ranch obviously we have to butcher some cows once a year. Most people tell me not to name them or get too attached because I cry every time we have to butcher but I would much rather have a short period of grief and give them a good life while they are here then to just remain completely detached and cold. I want all my animals to know they are not only loved but appreciated and cherished and yes it takes a good chunk of time out of my life to do that but it's more rewarding then you could imagine! Hug your pets!

Cattle snuggles.

I am a city girl but I am also a farmer. This tends to end up with me adoring the livestock just like I adore my dog. I know that in November I lose some of our almost 2 year olds. Every year I dread that day. I like steak but I love my animals. My husband is supportive the night before he reminds me to use one of my sleeping pills and I do and the butcher comes at 7am. I sleep through it every year. I can't be there. My husband says with time I will get used to it. But I don't know about that. See my husband goes to feed the cows he knocks out the Hay pats one on the head and he's on his way. I go see the cows and I have to greet each of them. Two of them come running. I have to make sure I stay where they won't crush me if the both hug and rub their heads and necks against me at the same time. I love my babies. I bring them apples and pumpkins. They each have such great individual personalities I highly suggest you get to know a cow or two. Just don't stand between them and the fence so they don't crush you. I Love my Moosers. Hugs and blessings,Tuff