Goats, snowshoes make for a fun walk through Elgin farm
Snowshoeing for the first time can be a little awkward. It gets a lots harder when a herd of very friendly and very hungry goats get added to the mix.
Everyone stayed upright, well mostly, during Sunday's Snowshoe with the Goat Crew program at Reverse the Kerrs Farm in Elgin.
About 15 people took part in what farm owner Danielle Kerr hopes is a program that offers something fun to do outdoors while helping reduce stress and anxiety.
"We have a passion for improving mental health and promoting mental wellness," Kerr said. "All the laughter and all the joy you hear is what this is all about."
This was the second goat snowshoeing event at the farm, where they also offer goat yoga in warmer months. They plan to strap on the snowshoes, which are provided to the participants, each weekend through February and then will play it by ear in March, depending on the amount of snow on the ground. The hourlong program is for ages 12 and up.
Most of the goats are named after Chicago Cubs luminaries, like Harry Caray, Javy, Theo and KB. Some, like Chandler and Phoebe, share names of characters from TV shows. No matter what you call them, they'll treat you like an old friend if you have treats.
"They've been doing this since they were babies, so they really love people," Kerr said.
Bianca Bostic of Cary came out with a group of friends after they couldn't book a spa as a group activity because of COVID mitigations. She said it surpassed her expectations.
"I love animals and I love working out, so anything that puts them together is great," she said.