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Video: Rescued cow and her newborn calf
KIM BRISCOE
19 January 2009 09:05
She was destined for slaughter - but weeks later Clover the rescued dairy cow surprised everyone at the animal sanctuary that saved her by giving birth.
Hillside Animal Sanctuary, which has a no breeding policy and rarely has births, is now enjoying its newest arrival - Bramble the calf.
The calf, which is still a little wobbly on its legs, has enchanted staff at the Frettenham-based charity after arriving out of the blue on Wednesday, January 14.
The charity had no idea Clover was pregnant when she arrived at the sanctuary in December.
Pauline Lynch, secretary of Hillside, said: “We were pleased to give a home to a steer and two cows that were rescued by one of our supporters from the dairy industry.
“As it happened, this was just in time, as all three were due to be shot because as they were no longer needed.
“We were therefore delighted when Clover, the younger of the cows, gave birth to a male calf.
“We watched with pleasure as Clover tended her calf by licking and nudging him to prepare him for life 'on the outside'.
“We were reminded of the fate of so many millions of dairy cows who are so less fortunate than Clover.”
The sanctuary campaigns for better animal welfare and public awareness of the conditions of millions of animals in the intensive factory farming industry.
It claims that many dairy cows are prematurely worn out by physical and mental stress.
Ms Lynch said: “Clover will be able to fully embrace the joys of motherhood.”
The pair will now spend the rest of their days at Hillside Animal Sanctuary's site in Frettenham, or at its West Runton site.
For more information about Hillside, or to sponsor an animal, visit its website at www.hillside.org.uk or call 01603 736200.
To watch a video of Clover and Bramble log on to www.eveningnews24.co.uk
Do you have a story about an animal? Contact reporter Kim Briscoe on 01603 772419 or email kim.briscoe@archant.co.uk
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