10/31/2025
It is with great sadness that we share the passing of our dearest friend, Betsy. 💔
9 years ago Betsy arrived at the sanctuary from a small dairy operation. She was heavily pregnant and very tired — you could see the concern and apprehension in her eyes. Her last three babies were taken away from her and we were told that she was so grief stricken over the losses that she would nurse and act as a surrogate mother for anyone who needed it — lambs, goat kids, even piglets.
When her son Oliver was born she was demonstrably worried that he too would be taken away and it was only after a week or so that she let herself settle into the role she so desperately yearned for: mother.
Their bond, a sacred and beautiful thing, was immediate and unbreakable. For nine years Betsy and Oliver never left each other’s side. It is often said by the dairy industry that mama cows don’t care about their babies and quickly forget about them. Betsy’s love for her son, the only one she got to keep, is proof of how false that narrative is.
Betsy was so kind, patient, and incredibly caring. She comforted many of her sanctuary family in their final moments. She was not only a great mom, she was also a great friend. Our grief is gently held knowing that, because of sanctuary, she got to have the life that so many like her only dream of. For that we will be eternally grateful.
Our hearts break the most for dear Oliver who not only lost a mom, but his best friend. Please hold him in your thoughts.
One of the most meaningful ways to honor Betsy’s life is to stop consuming dairy products. They cause immense suffering and there are so many wonderful plant-based alternatives to choose from. For Betsy, for Oliver, for every animal suffering on a dairy farm — choose kindness.
We will love you forever and always sweet Betsy-Moo. ❤️
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