In Summer 2020, Barn Sanctuary was contacted about a female calf on a dairy farm in Wisconsin. Mabel was born with leg contractions so she had trouble standing and walking. She is also a freemartin, a term used to describe a sterile female cow. Freemartins are unlikely to give birth and therefore cannot produce milk. As a young freemartin calf with mobility challenges, Mabel needed a home. She was surrendered to Barn Sanctuary and has been making gains and stealing hearts since.
On Mabel’s first visit to the veterinary hospital we learned that she also has a heart murmur that may stunt her growth. We are optimistic, though, that it won’t be life threatening! Many animals live full and happy lives with heart murmurs. Her contracted legs, one with a deep wound, were the most pressing concerns.
At the hospital Mabel was fitted for prosthetics and had a daily regimen on multimodality physical therapies. Her legs are already straightening and healing.
Mabel is a curious, loving, sweet and playful young gal. She loves her fresh alfalfa and meeting other calves.
Your sponsorship will provide physical therapy, daily care, regular medical checkups, and any unexpected emergency care. Please sponsor Mabel to provide the care she deserves!