An elderly ram with a distinctly canine personality has trotted his way into a family's home and heart, becoming an unlikely but cherished pet. B'Dave, a 15-year-old white-faced Woodland and Herdwick cross, regularly wanders into his owners' kitchen to demand snacks and a fuss, behaving more like a loyal dog than a farm animal.
From London Farm to Family Home
Charlotte and Anthony Barnes, a couple who run a campsite, originally bought B'Dave in 2011 from an inner-city farm in London. He was acquired as a 'wether' – a castrated male sheep – intended to be a companion for their main mating ram. However, the pair quickly discovered his exceptionally gentle and affectionate nature, which set him apart.
"We say he's 15 but he could be even older," said Charlotte, 58. "We got him from London and he'd have been around 18 months at the time. He really defended his ram, and when all the lambs were lambing they would jump on him, they all loved him. He was an uncle basically."
A Dog in Sheep's Clothing
B'Dave's integration into domestic life was a gradual, natural process. Accustomed to human company from his early days, he began to seek out his owners, especially when feeling unwell. Now toothless, the ram has earned free roam of the kitchen and dining room. If the back door is left open, he will amble inside to say hello, often nudging Anthony affectionately while he works at the computer.
"He just started living a nice sedate life," Charlotte explained. "He ended up just walking in one day. He'll come in to say hello and he'll have a slice of bread, a biscuit, or an apple slice." The family treats him as just another pet, alongside their three dogs – Ollie, Bertie, and Pippin – and a cat.
A Calming Presence for All
B'Dave has become a star attraction for visitors to the Barnes' campsite, offering a unique experience for children and adults. "The campers love him," Charlotte added. "The kids will want to come and fuss him. Not many get a chance to fuss a ram, especially one so calm and kind."
Remarkably, the elderly sheep has never needed a vet visit. His serene character is evident even during shearing, where he patiently waits his turn. Charlotte believes animals like B'Dave offer immense wellbeing benefits, simply by making people smile. "He's not bothered by dogs, either," she said. "He's brilliant. He's a family pet for us, the dogs are used to him, he's basically a dog."
