As the festive season concludes, Freedom Hill Farm and Rescue in Columbus is accepting donations of Christmas trees to provide nourishment for its goats and other animals. The farm welcomes real trees, including pine, fir, and spruce, which serve both as a food source and an enrichment tool for the animals.
Taylor Ventura, owner of the farm, emphasized the benefits of these trees for the goats. “The goats really love the Christmas trees; it’s a great enrichment tool,” she stated. “It’s good for their health, and it helps with worms and their digestive tract.” Over the past five years, Ventura has collected around ten donated trees each holiday season, a practice that began when a local resident first inquired about donating a tree.
Ventura explained that through research, she discovered the health benefits of Christmas trees for goats. “I learned that it’s actually really healthy for them,” she noted, highlighting the positive impact this initiative has on the animals’ well-being.
Community Engagement and Animal Welfare
Many community members take the opportunity to visit the farm while dropping off their trees. “A lot of locals drop trees off and enjoy the petting zoo and the animals,” Ventura shared. “They know the animals enjoy it.” This interaction fosters a sense of community while also benefiting the farm’s residents.
While the goats are the primary beneficiaries, they are not alone in enjoying the seasonal treats. Ventura mentioned that sheep and even the farm’s cow partake in the feast. “It’s a full family feast for the animals,” she added, illustrating the joyful atmosphere at the farm.
Located at 311 Mize Nursery Lane in Columbus, Freedom Hill Farm encourages donors to provide only real trees, free of decorations, tinsel, or artificial materials. This requirement ensures the safety and health of the animals consuming the trees.
As the holiday season wraps up, this initiative not only promotes animal welfare but also strengthens community bonds through shared experiences and contributions to the farm. Ventura looks forward to another successful season of tree donations and the joy they bring to the animals.
