Meet Maple, one of our three hardworking livestock guardian dogs (LGDs) who protect our pasture-raised poultry here at Hell or High Water Farm.

Together, these dogs keep a watchful eye over 600 chickens and 50 ducks, guarding them from predators like coyotes, bobcats, raccoons, possums, skunks, owls, red-tailed hawks, and eagles. Let's just say, they have their work cut out for them.

Maple’s job? Living full-time out on pasture with her flock—sleeping beside them, patrolling the perimeter, and fending off threats, including ravens that try to steal freshly laid eggs right from the field.

Her dedication is a big part of why we’re able to raise poultry humanely, and why our hens can roam freely, foraging and laying eggs in peace on pasture.

But Now, Maple Needs Our Help

Recently, Maple suffered a torn ACL in her left back leg. It’s painful, and it limits her mobility—but that hasn’t stopped her from trying to do her job anyway, even when she’s clearly in discomfort.

It’s heartbreaking to see such a loyal, hardworking dog in pain.

Our veterinarian has confirmed that surgery is necessary—but the good news is that because Maple is young, strong, and otherwise healthy, she’s expected to make a full recovery with proper treatment and time to heal.

We’re aiming to schedule her surgery for November 2025, so she can recover over the quieter winter season and be ready to return to the pasture by spring.

Why This Matters — And Why We’re Asking for Help

As a small pasture-based farm, we sell our eggs directly to the Seattle community—primarily at Capitol Hill Farmers Market, Phinney Farmers Market, and Georgetown Farmers Market.

The quality of our eggs, and the welfare of our birds, depends on keeping them safe and stress-free—which wouldn’t be possible without Maple and her fellow LGDs.

Maple’s surgery and aftercare is expected to cost $8,000 including:

This kind of expense is a major strain on a small farm like ours. Every dollar we make goes into feed, fencing, infrastructure, and animal care. There’s no extra budget for emergency medical costs like this.

That’s why we’re reaching out—to ask for help giving Maple the care she needs to heal.

How You Can Help

Your donation will go directly toward Maple’s surgery and recovery. Every contribution—no matter the size—brings us one step closer to getting her back to the field where she belongs.

If you can’t donate right now, sharing this fundraiser with your community, friends, or on social media means the world to us.

Maple is more than a farm dog. She’s family. She’s a protector. She’s one of the big reasons our flocks thrive. Let’s help her get back on her feet.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts,

Kevin Helfrick & family

Hell or High Water Farm

www.hellorhighwaterfarm.com