Snowy Beasts

There's been a lot of complaining these days about the weather in Maryland. Snow and ice. Rain, thunder. More snow. Cancelled work and school. Everyone has been effected in some way and - as far as I can tell - everyone has had something to say about. 

We'd like to invite you to stop for a moment and consider that there ARE those who have it tougher than you…. Imagine you not only have to shovel your car out, or your swath of sidewalk. Imagine you also have to care for 30 or so large, rescued animals. You need to trek out into the snow and make sure they have food and water - and the water hasn't frozen. They need fresh air in the pasture, then they need brushed off and put back into the barn. They need love and attention. Welcome to the world of Burleigh.

Take a look at our friends at Burleigh Manor Animal Sanctuary. Above, that's Moose and his buddy Cash. Both are mules, retired from Amish farms and rescued from a slaughterhouse in PA. Just below, blind pony, Pagan, is hanging outing his cozy plaid coat. He's got some snow on him, but enjoys the fresh, chilly air in his pasture.

 Mabel is the pink piggie below. She stepped out to explore a recent snow, but her companion, Hamlet, wisely chose to stay in the barn. If there are belly rubs involved, even snow cannot stop Mabel!

Edgar Allan Pony is a new resident at Burleigh. Several years back, Edgar served as one of Baltimore's Arabbers. Arabber ponies usually work by pulling a food cart through Baltimore neighborhoods. Edgar's job was to provide pony rides at Inner Harbor. In addition to working long days on hard cement and street surfaces, Arabbers are often be found living in inappropriate housing situations such as the basements of city homes. Edgar doesn't mind braving the snow, especially for an apple!

Jack the donkey is watching over shy L'il, the cow. Jack is a 15+ year-old, miniature Sicilian donkey that stands no more than 3 feet tall. He is approximately the size of a large dog. He's gray-dun in color with a darker dorsal stripe and cross. This is the most common color pattern for this type of donkey. Lore tells us that the cross shape design over his back was put there to symbolize the Christ child being carried upon the donkey’s back. Lil' Cow is a brown-colored Hereford. She was surrendered by her former owner, who was closing down the family’s cow farm after the death of her husband. The rest of the cows had been sent to slaughter, but not L’il Cow, who was beloved as a family friend.

Still think you have it tough, scraping the ice from your car window or sitting inside on the couch to watch bad TV all day? Try farm life for a day!

You can go meet them and experience winter on the farm during their next open house event, which is Saturday March 8, 1pm to 3pm. There is a $5 donation, and closed-toe boots are recommended. You may bring apples and carrots to feed the animals, if you like. 

We are happy volunteers at Burleigh and love hanging out with the animals, rain or snow or sleet or sunshine. Each one is like a special pal with his and her own unique quirks and personality. Hope winter doesn't keep you in during the next open house! Farm life in the winter has its own beauty and charm and is completely worth the visit!

~ Rissa