The story
of Kendyll Williams, a 13-year-old from Huntsville, Texas, and a steer named
Oatmeal is breaking hearts across the country. Kendyll’s family purchased
Oatmeal to raise on their farm. Shortly thereafter, they learned he was blind.
The Williams were patient and loving with Oatmeal, who was diagnosed
with inoperable cataracts so thick he could likely only detect light and dark
shapes.
“They said that being blind meant he wouldn’t eat, wouldn’t
drink, that he would get hurt,” said Kendyll. Well, they couldn’t have been
more wrong.
Young Kendyll grew especially close to her friend, but knew he’d
eventually be sold for slaughter. “I’d go to his stall every day and talk to
him,” Kendyll said. “You can’t be rough with him. He doesn’t respond well to
roughness. One day, it just clicked. I started gaining his trust.”
On Saturday, the Williams sold Oatmeal for $8,000 at the Fort
Worth Stock Show’s Sale of Champions. This is where Kendyll was forced to say
goodbye. With tears in her eyes, she told her mom that she’d be OK. A hug and
kiss, and the two dear friends, who had been inseparable, parted ways.
Just like dogs and cats, farmed animals are sensitive and
form bonds with people. It’s the ultimate betrayal to send them off to an early
death when there’s simply no need.
Help save the lives of innocent animals like Oatmeal by
switching to a compassionate vegan diet. Click here to order your FREE Vegetarian
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