It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Riley, our sweet Nigerian Dwarf goat and cherished animal ambassador at Lollypop Farm.
Riley became ill suddenly, and despite every effort to save her, including emergency care at Cornell University’s Hospital for Animals, her little body could not recover. An autopsy later revealed that an uncommon bacterium, while not infectious, had taken too great a toll on her system. We are deeply grateful to the dedicated team at Cornell for the compassion and excellent care they showed Riley during her time with them.
Riley’s story began here at Lollypop Farm when her mother, Joy, was surrendered to us while heavily pregnant. Soon after, Joy gave birth to triplets: Riley, Phyllis, and Bing Bong. While Phyllis and Bing Bong found a loving adoptive home, Riley and Joy showed an extraordinary bond with people. Their gentle natures and love of attention made them perfect candidates to remain at Lollypop Farm as permanent residents and ambassadors for their species.
Riley touched countless lives. She greeted children at Summer Camp, delighted school field trip groups, and brightened the days of donors and visitors alike. Beyond her sweet and playful spirit, Riley served an important role by teaching people about goats, farm animal care, and the bond between humans and animals.
Though her time with us was far too short, Riley made an unforgettable impact. She will be dearly missed by her Lollypop Farm family, along with the many visitors she met. Her mother, Joy, continues to live here on the farm with her fellow resident goats.
Riley’s legacy will live on in the lessons she taught and the joy she brought to so many.
Our staff was quick to share their memories and thoughts, further demonstrating Riley’s impact:
Mary, Farm Manager – “From the moment Riley was born, you could tell she was special. She made every child and adult smile who met her. She was a very lucky girl, because she knew nothing but love her entire life.”
Calen, Farm Caretaker – “Riley brought such a strong presence to the farm. Although she was the smallest of the goats, her personality was quite the opposite. She was smart, she made you laugh, she was sassy, and she definitely knew how adorable she was. She was captivating. Riley was loved and adored from the moment she was born to the day we had to say goodbye. She is missed every day, but with every “remember when __”, her presence still is and will always be at Lollypop Farm. Thanks for making our days brighter, Riley.”
Emily, Farm Caretaker – “The world feels different without Riley’s presence, but her memory is woven into every corner of the farm. We will miss her morning greetings when she used to tell us that we were going too slow at feeding time. Riley wasn’t just a goat, she was family—and the farm feels a little quieter without her.”
Alyssa, Humane Education Program Supervisor – “Riley made an immediate and lasting impact on everyone she met, easily bringing smiles to children and adults alike. Alongside Joy, Riley was a staple of our programs, teaching countless students, campers, and adults about the importance of animal consent and agency. Her presence ensured these essential lessons were engaging and unforgettable. She brought so much happiness to our students, shelter helpers, campers, and humane educators, and she will be profoundly missed by the entire Education Team and every child who learned from her.”
