WESTFIELD-With “two more babies on the way,” Robin Plourde of the Whip City Farm and Sanctuary is hopeful that an online auction fundraiser on April 16 will help raise needed funds to pay for veterinary care, food and supplies.
“We have grown considerably since opening,” said Plourde, adding, “We have ducks, a turkey, chickens, pigs, goats, a cow with health problems, a mule, horses, a pregnant mare and goat.”
Plourde noted she has received “many phone calls” asking for help in taking animals.
“Right now we cannot financially handle any new rescues,” she said.
Oakley the goat is visited by Robert and Cole Snyder and their mother Amy Laughlin on a recent visit to Whip City Farm and Sanctuary. (MARC ST. ONGE/THE WESTFIELD NEWS).
The sanctuary is home to injured, neglected, or abused farm animals, as well as farm animals that are surrendered by the owner. The farm is located at 232 Montgomery St. and welcomes visitors on Sundays from 12-2.
“These animals are now living a happy, healthy and safe life with people who love them,” she said.
Plourde is seeking donations this month for the online auction and area residents can private message her through the sanctuary’s Facebook page to make pick up or drop off arrangements of items. Additionally, donations may be dropped off during visiting hours on Sundays.
“Handmade items, items from local consultants and local businesses would be great,” said Plourde, noting she would like to have a description of the item, the donor’s name and/or business card for acknowledgement purposes.
“This fundraising will help catch up on vet bills,” said Plourde. “Teddy just had surgery to remove significant scar tissue so he can urinate. Molly required a vet for a large abscess on her hoof and is also expecting this month which will require a vet visit.”
Plourde said that Oakley and baby Noah also were recently castrated.
“We were told by the person who surrendered them that it would be done prior to bringing them to the sanctuary,” said Plourde, adding, “They were not separated before coming and we now have another goat – Gerdie – due any minute.”
For Plourde to continue to provide the sanctuary as well as take in more animals, she is hopeful the community can continue the “wonderful support” that has already been received.
“We need to expand fencing so we can rotate paddocks for grazing,” said Plourde. “There is a toxic weed called hoary alyssum throughout all the fields on the property which will have to be killed off and reseeding will be necessary.”
Another major project will be the maintenance needed on the large cow barn for hay storage.
For more information on the farm happenings, visit Whip City Farm and Sanctuary on Facebook.
“Please private message me or post any questions or comments to our Facebook page,” said Plourde.
