Mama Astro’s story is one of heartbreak, resilience, and deep maternal love. Originally shipped from Pennsylvania to be a pet, she eventually ended up at a Florida dairy farm. Like all cows in the dairy industry, she was forcibly impregnated year after year to keep producing milk. Once her production declined, she was marked for slaughter, just as so many others are, along with their male calves, while their daughters are forced into the same cruel cycle. Last July, Mama Astro was selected for slaughter, but the night before, she gave birth to a calf later named Cosmo. Cows are often killed while pregnant because their heavier weight brings more profit, but a compassionate dairy worker stepped in. She brought Cosmo into her home to bottle-feed him and made arrangements to keep Mama safe until they could find a place to be together. After five long months apart, that day has finally come—Astro and Cosmo will now live side by side in safety and peace at Critter Creek.
Sadly, both Astro and Cosmo tested positive for Johne’s disease. Mama has an active infection, though she is still comfortable for now. We feared this outcome, as nearly 100% of dairy farms—regardless of size—harbor Johne’s, according to the USDA. The bacterium that causes it, MAP, is shed in milk and colostrum and isn’t eliminated by pasteurization or chlorination. Studies suggest a troubling link between MAP and Crohn’s disease in humans. In cows, it causes devastating intestinal damage, leading to progressive weight loss, chronic diarrhea, and ultimately death. While we are heartbroken for Astro, we are especially crushed for Cosmo—he just got his mom back, only to face losing her again. But every day they have together at Critter Creek will be filled with love, comfort, and the joy they have always deserved.
Your sponsorship allows us to give Cosmo and Astro the lives they deserve and fund their veterinary care, feed, hay, and more. With a one-month-only sponsorship, you will receive a digital certificate of “adoption.” With a monthly or annual sponsorship, you will receive a digital and print certificate of “adoption,” quarterly email updates with exclusive photos, and an invitation to our exclusive sponsors-only virtual tour. In addition, your name will be displayed on Cosmo and Astro’s page, acknowledging you as their sponsor.
Sponsorships are not only a great way to support the rescued residents of Critter Creek, but they also make great gifts!