Support Thirsty Cactus Ranch After Devastating Loss

Hi everyone as some of you in Zavala county may know already my cousin Moses Valdez owns the Thirsty Cactus Ranch. He spends countless of hours tending to his animals which he uses in local functions for the community. He also raises show lambs for children to purchase for the FFA/4H. Unfortunately his animals were attacked and killed by local dogs. The dog owners have been found but the owners have not offered to pay for the damages, and now alleging that they are not their dogs.

Losing 29 sheep and goats to a dog attack has been devastating, especially since these animals were the heart of our community events. The petting zoo, which recently hosted a "Day at the Ranch" for special needs children, brought so much joy and connection. As a pillar in the community, these events were his way of giving back, creating unforgettable memories for everyone involved. Now, rebuilding from scratch means replacing those 29 animals, investing in their care, and dedicating countless hours to get back to where we were. Your financial assistance can help him overcome this setback, allowing us to continue offering these valuable experiences and keeping the spirit of community alive. Every contribution, no matter the size, will directly support the revival of the petting zoo and the continuation of our cherished events.

The silence where once the lively sounds of sheep and goats filled the air is a constant reminder of what we've lost. Each animal had its own personality, and they were more than just livestock; they were members of our extended family. Walking through the empty pens is a heavy experience, knowing that the laughter and joy they brought to so many faces are temporarily silenced. This loss isn't just financial; it's emotional, affecting the very core of what we do and why we do it. Rebuilding isn't just about replacing animals; it's about restoring a piece of our hearts and the heart of our community.

We're reaching out to you, our compassionate community, with a heartfelt plea. If you're able, please consider assisting us in rebuilding our petting zoo. Whether through financial contributions to help us purchase new animals and supplies, or through the donation of gentle, farm-friendly animals suitable for a petting zoo environment, every act of kindness will make a tangible difference. Your support will not only help us replace what was lost, but it will also reignite the spark of joy and connection that our events bring to so many lives. Together, we can turn this tragedy into an opportunity to create something even more beautiful and resilient, ensuring that the laughter and learning continue for years to come.