Monday started with a red flag. Lolly didn’t finish his breakfast—and was shivering. For a goat known for mischief (and never missing a meal), this was not like him at all.
We bundled him in a blanket and called Dr. Avery, who recommended we bring him in right away.
Quiet Isn’t His Style
At the clinic, Lolly underwent bloodwork, a fecal test, and ultrasounds of his abdomen and chest. But what worried us most?
He was quiet. This is a goat who usually keeps everyone on their toes—not calmly cooperating through exams.
The tests didn’t reveal anything obvious. While vets consulted further, we brought Lolly home for the night—tucked into a warm stall with a heater, hoping morning would bring answers.
The Long Drive to Answers
Tuesday meant a road trip to Texas A&M. Four hours of trying not to spiral… but when an older goat like Lolly won’t eat, it’s hard not to imagine the worst.
The team took Lolly back for evaluation. We waited. And waited. If you’ve ever sat in that kind of silence, you know—it feels endless.
The Words We Hoped For
“He’s completely fine.” The doors opened. The update came. Lolly is… completely fine.
Relief flooded in—but also disbelief. This is a goat who once ate a banana peel straight out of a hand. Not eating? That’s unheard of.
Back to His Old Tricks
Moments later, we saw it for ourselves—Lolly happily gobbling hay again. Halfway through his exam, he even started putting up a fight… which, honestly, felt like the best news of all.
That’s our Lolly.
What Happened?
Sometimes it’s not one thing—it’s everything. Cold weather. Arthritis. Just not feeling his best.
All signs point to a temporary slump that resolved with time and care. His tests came back normal, and a mineral screening will help rule out any deficiencies.
A New Plan for Our Old Guy
Lolly did come home with one “prescription”: tips for gaining weight. Even with extra grain, hay, oils, and supplements, he’s slimmed down with age—so we’re adding a few new tricks to help him thrive.
Back Where He Belongs
Now he’s back at the ranch—likely surrounded by curious little goats, all eager to hear about his big adventure. And us? We’re just so, so grateful to share this simple update: Lolly is okay!
