Little goats put big smiles on the faces of residents at BaptistCare Balladong Gardens

They may be only pint-sized, but some special visitors have been bringing the smiles – and the memories – at BaptistCare Balladong Gardens Aged Care HomeBaptistCare Balladong Gardens Residential Care in York, WA 

The cuddly collection of baby pygmy goats, along with their owners, Penny and Braydon Butler of Rocky Forest Farm, have become much-loved regulars at the aged care facility.

Adding to the fun are the couple’s own ‘kids’, 11-year-old Matilda and eight-year-old Harrison. 

“Our kids love coming along to help out, and we’ve all started getting to know the residents, making each visit feel even more personal and special,” Mrs Butler said.

“There’s something incredibly moving about watching residents – many of whom live with dementia – light up the moment they see a goat walk into the room. Even if they don’t remember everything else, they remember how the goat made them feel.”

Mrs Butler said being able to visit seniors in the family’s home town made the connections even more meaningful.

“It’s our way of giving back to the York community that’s been so supportive of us. And it’s clear the staff at Balladong Gardens work hard to make every day brighter for the residents. We’re just grateful we can play a small part in that,” she said.

Mr and Mrs Butler raise a variety of furry friends, including highland cows and miniature pigs on their 100-acre property just outside of York.

The couple have been bringing their delightful pygmy goats to BaptistCare Balladong Gardens Residential Care staff since last September, after a chance meeting at the York Agricultural show with a staff member from the aged care facility.

Although every visit since has been special, one in particular will stay with Mrs Butler forever.

“A resident who had been a farmer his whole life, had been refusing to leave his room for weeks. 

But when he heard the bleating of the baby goats, he came out immediately,” Mrs Butler said.

“No one tried to encourage him or coax him out with the goats; he simply heard the sound of something that reminded him of home. Moments like that remind us how powerful and impactful animal therapy can be.

“It’s not just about entertainment – it’s about connection, memory and joy.”

Balladong Gardens Residential Care Lifestyle Coordinator Laura Yau said residents were always glowing with happiness when they sat with the baby goats, and enjoyed stroking their soft fur and being amused by baby animals’ hilarious antics.

“Volunteers like Penny and Brayden mean a lot to us here at Balladong Gardens. We are so grateful for their generosity in sharing the joy their little bundles of chaos bring,” she said.

“Gestures and kindness like this from the local community have such a significant impact on our residents.”