Laura Greaves embarked on a unique quest on social media to find a gentle ewe in Saskatchewan to be a companion for her beloved llama, Maple, who had recently lost her sight. As an experienced equine veterinarian, Greaves was no stranger to caring for animals with special needs, but Maple presented a distinct challenge that required special assistance.
The search led Greaves to Peeps, a friendly and vocal sheep from Eyebrow, Sask., who was deemed a suitable match for Maple due to her outgoing nature. Maple had initially come into Greaves’s care as a guardian llama to protect her animals from coyotes. Jacquie Poole, a friend of Greaves, recognized Maple as the right fit after bonding over caring for a horse together.
Greaves and Poole undertook a nearly 17-hour round trip to Alberta to bring Maple home, only to discover her in poor condition with broken teeth. Despite Maple’s challenges, Greaves decided to provide her with the care she needed. After Maple’s eye condition worsened, necessitating the removal of both eyes, Greaves and a team of veterinarians successfully performed the surgery.
Adjusting to blindness was a significant hurdle for Maple, as llamas have limited senses beyond vision. Greaves utilized sound cues and keywords to assist Maple in navigating her surroundings, but challenges persisted, including social interactions with other animals. To alleviate Maple’s distress, Greaves moved her to a smaller paddock and sought a companion more suitable to her needs.
Peeps, the sheep, emerged as the ideal companion for Maple, offering comfort and support in their evolving relationship. Peeps’s vocal nature and ability to guide Maple through sound cues proved invaluable in helping Maple adapt to her new reality. The pair’s bond is strengthening, with Greaves optimistic about their future together as they navigate their shared environment and provide mutual comfort.
Looking ahead, Greaves envisions integrating Peeps and Maple into the larger animal group while fostering their unique bond. For now, the focus remains on allowing them to thrive as a duo, offering each other companionship and solace in their shared journey.