In the summer of 2024, we introduced readers to the local “Goats Gone Viral” from Smith Farm Goat Sanctuary, a family farm that reached TikTok fame thanks to a very pregnant goat named Bev.
At more than five times the size of the other goats, Beau has shown that the farm’s 25-year-old fences can no longer keep him contained. Contributed photo.
Since then, the farm has started opening its gates to the community via events ranging from movie nights and goat yoga to bingo and bonsai workshops.
Unfortunately, the goats have now started taking an unauthorized walk on the wild side.
With 59 goats currently in the herd, one in particular — Beau, a massive goat the size of a Shetland pony, who is more than five times larger than the others — has figured out how to trample the 25-year-old fence in search of greener pastures. He and other goats have been seen in yards of neighboring community members.
“There is an urgent and dire need to repair the fence and keep the goats safe from coyotes, other predators, and cars on the streets and neighborhoods,” says volunteer Gaia Hart, who reached out to let us know about the ongoing fundraiser for repairs. “The farm is entrusted to keep them safe, and they need funding to repair the fence as soon as possible.”
The sanctuary is thankful for all the support it has received in recent years. “The Fuquay-Varina and surrounding community has supported Smith Farm Goat Sanctuary in incredible ways through attending events, sharing our mission online, volunteering, and helping us grow during our first years as a public sanctuary. We are hopeful the community will continue to stand behind us as we work to replace our aging perimeter fencing, which is essential to keeping our rescued goats safe and secure,” says Executive Director Jesi Wilde. “Every donation, share, and show of support truly makes a difference for the animals who call the sanctuary home.”
Jesi Wilde greets the goats at Smith Farm Goat Sanctuary
Replacing the entire perimeter fence will cost about $35,000. The farm has several fundraising endeavors underway, including a GoFundMe, T-shirt fundraiser, and direct donations via Venmo, PayPal, Zelle, the sanctuary website, or checks mailed to the farm.
Fence Heroes who donate $500 or more will have a plaque displayed at the farm. The sanctuary is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, and all donations are tax deductible.
Interested in visiting the farm to show your support (and meet the goats)? Check out the calendar of upcoming events.
