Sanctuary Stories
The Giant Steer Who Was Too Sweet To Be Slaughtered
Dozer is a supersized star at Kismet Creek sanctuary in Manitoba, but it’s his sweet personality that saved his life
While being loaded up to be sent for slaughter, at only a few months old, Dozer, the now-massive black Holstein, started licking farm staff. “He was just being super affectionate and goofy,” describes Raelle Schoenrock, owner of Kismet Creek Farm animal sanctuary in Manitoba, Canada, “and so sweet.” The farmers were taken with the calf’s endearing character, and they just couldn’t bring themselves to send him off. Dozer escaped death that day. “He just wins over everyone who meets him,” says Schoenrock. “Even beef farmers.”
Now, six years later, Dozer is a true representation of what a cow can become when allowed to live: Over 6.5 feet, and adoring of all who visit him at the sanctuary. “He’s a real gentle giant,” gushes Schoenrock.
He’s also become world famous.
Like many male Holsteins, Dozer was born onto a dairy farm where he was considered no use. Following the…
