In light of the raging fires in California, that have been so costly and have taken so much, we wanted to share a bit of hope with you.
Roland Tembo Hendel and his family live in Santa Rosa and just this past week had to evacuate as they watched the flames bearing down on their property. However, with the family, dogs, and cats- there wasn’t any room for the family’s flock of bottle raised goats.
Roland writes on his Facebook page:
“By 11:10 we could see the first of the flames across the valley. By 11:15 they were growing larger and the winds went mad. We had loaded up the dogs and cats, but Odin, our stubborn and fearless Great Pyrenees would not leave the goats.” 1
With no other options, the family left hoping they would see their beloved pets again but fearing the worst:
“Even under the best of circumstances it is nearly impossible to separate Odin from the goats after nightfall when he takes over the close watch from his sister Tessa. I made a decision to leave him, and I doubt I could have made him come with us if I tried.” 2
However, the fire subsided just enough for the Hendel family to return to their property. What they found was a “smoldering wasteland of our forest,”3 with every structure ruined and some trees still burning.
But then, hope in the ashes.
The family reports that suddenly, the goats appeared and raced toward them with a fur burned Odin behind! His whiskers were melted and he was limping on his right leg, but he was alive. And, not only did Odin protect his flock during the firestorm but he adopted several baby deer who were huddled around him for safety!
Good boy!
The family set up a You Caring page to help pay for Odin’s medical care, to re-establish a fresh water supply for the animals, and rebuild their barn before the winter. Please help if you are able by clicking here.
