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Gandalf the goat in need of home

Gandalf was found wandering on someone’s property before the BC SPCA was called
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— Kamloops this Week

The Kamloops branch of the BC SPCA has 50 animals in its care: 19 dogs, 27 cats, two rabbits, one guinea pig — and Gandalf the goat.

“He’s been in foster because we obviously don’t have a place to put a goat here,” said Alyssa Kyllo, interim branch manager of the Kamloops BC SPCA. “We have had house pigs here, though.”

Gandalf is a white billy with a beard that rivals that of his Lord of the Rings counterpart. Named by a clever BC SPCA staffer for obvious reasons, he first came to the branch in November.

Gandalf was found wandering someone’s property for weeks before the owner tied him to a fence post and called the BC SPCA. The cruelty investigations team usually deals with livestock. Llamas, horses and cattle have been fostered in the past.

“We don’t get that many goats,” Kyllo said.

It’s unclear why Gandalf was out wandering alone. Maybe someone could no longer afford to feed him. Perhaps someone couldn’t foot the bill to treat his wounded horn. Maybe someone simply didn’t want him.

“It would be nice for people to call us,” Kyllo said. “I can’t promise we can help everyone, but at least we are aware of the situation and we can put people in connection with the branches or another rescue.”

Gandalf was treated by a veterinarian, his horn wound deemed minor.

Months later, he remains in foster care at a local hobby farm.

It’s no sure bet, but Kyllo said Gandalf may soon have a forever home.

The Kamloops Therapeutic Riding Association is considering adding him to its acreage near the Kamloops Airport. He’s a little rough with sheep, Kyllo said, but Gandalf loves people. She thinks he would be a fit.

“We’re going to see if we can get him over there for a visit and, if it all goes well, hopefully it will be a finalized adoption,” Kyllo said.

Gandalf has been difficult to place. Beyond finding foster homes, farm animals are among the hardest to adopt out. They’re few and far between cats and dogs.

“Not everyone walks in here wanting a goat,” Kyllo said.

Helping home:

The SPCA is always looking for new foster families to care for farm animals or animals with special needs. The high-stress environment of the shelter is not ideal for animals in need of socialization, newborns or those on the mend from surgery. No experience is necessary and supplies are provided. The agency can be contacted at 250-376-7722.