On Monday we picked up our two newest pets ~ miniature twin wether lambs Caelan and Colby. Born on March 12th, they're a Mini Cheviot/Babydoll Southdown cross, so will remain much smaller than traditional breeds. They're rather shy, but oh-so-adorable!

South Down sheep originated in the South Down hills of Sussex County, England and are typically raised for their wool. Miniature Cheviots hail from the Cheviot Hills country that form the border between England and Scotland; they'e an extremely hardy breed, also raised for wool.

This was our happy little chicken yard, as of only Monday. Early Tuesday morning, a large feral tomcat managed to break through the *double* layer of chicken wire on the baby chicks' temporary coop and slaughter 18 of the 21 birds. He didn't eat them, but was apparently killing for sport. We also lost a baby goose to this cat, which has left our surviving goose very sad indeed.

Needless to say, I've been in shock all week. I had no idea a cat would have the will, intelligence, and strength to do such a thing! We had some truly beautiful babies, including a number of Polish chicks (only one of whom survived), so we're all quite disapointed. We'd never planned on keeping all 21 birds, figuring half or so might be roosters, but this was tragic. Eleven chickens remain.

Last weekend we became the owners of an adorable German Shorthaired Pointer puppy named August (or "Gus"). He stole our hearts immediately with his sweet laid-back demeanor and charm.

Unfortunately, less than 24-hours after getting him, he became very sick. I rushed him to the emergency veterinary clinic on Sunday where he was diagnosed with Parvo (as it turns out, one of his litter mates died of Parvo last week). He has remained at the animal hospital, on IV fluids and medication, ever since. We are hoping for a full and speedy recovery!

UPDATE: On August 22, 2009, we received a phone call from our vet saying that Gus had passed away.