LAMBERT’S STORY
WHERE IT ALL BEGAN
In August 2021, we spent time on a farm in the Hanover district in the Northern Cape, South Africa. It was lambing season, and some ewes were giving birth later than others. Callum and Madi, especially Madi, hoped to save a lamb if its mother couldn’t care for it. We explained that it’s best for the mother to care for the lamb, but we step in if necessary.
During a cold snap, we had to bring all the sheep indoors for two days. We cleaned every available building on the farm, even using empty staff housing. For two nights and a day, the sheep stayed indoors to protect them after being shorn. On August 15, we released them back into the field.
When we opened the largest shed, a tiny lamb emerged, born overnight. Surprisingly, as none of the sheep in that shed were supposed to be pregnant. We located the mother, placed them together in a separate area, ensuring easy access to food and water.
Sadly, the mother wasn’t feeding the lamb, so we provided formula milk. Despite the mother’s protection, he had to be hand-raised. Named Lambert, he stayed in our house, becoming a source of excitement for Madi, Callum, and even our Labrador, Charlie.
Lambert required feeding every two hours, and he slept in a camp cot at night. On the third day, he had health issues, necessitating medication. We decided to bring him home for better care.
Though initially unwell, Lambert improved and became part of our daily life. Unfortunately, due to a neighbor’s complaint, we had to return him to the farm. Despite initial distress, he adapted to outdoor living.
We visited Lambert during weekends, and as he grew, he transitioned to the lands near the farmhouse. In December, we spent three weeks on the farm, walking with Lambert and Charlie. Sadly, we received news on February 2, 2022, that Lambert had passed away due to a stomach issue.
This loss inspired us to consider saving more lambs from premature slaughter. With a sponsor covering expenses, we aim to let sheep roam freely on a rented farm until they pass naturally or can no longer eat. Slaughter, if necessary, will be humane, and the meat will be donated to a children’s home.
WHAT HAPPENS AFTER I SPONSOR?
Sponsorship allows you to name a lamb, and we’ll send you a photo. They won’t be hand-fed but will roam freely, and we’ll provide periodic updates. In the future, we may explore tracking options.
To sponsor a lamb, click the link, fill out the form, and commit to a monthly payment of $12.