Monday morning turned brutal at Wishing Star Farm in unincorporated El Paso County, when a pair of stray dogs tore through the popular petting zoo, killing seven animals and injuring several others, according to the owners. A staff member, arriving on scene sometime between 10:30 and 11:30 a.m., stumbled into the chaos and scared the dogs off before they could do more damage. The two-generation agritourism operation is now reeling while injured animals receive care.
According to the Denver Gazette, the animals killed were four sheep and three goats. Security cameras on the property reportedly captured the dogs being chased away, but the footage did not provide clear images that could identify them.
Owners Mourn Animals They Considered Family
Co-owner Jason Wood told The Gazette that the animals lost in the attack — Maybelle, Fuzby, Buttons, Rollo, Jer Jer, Zoro and Susie — were "like family" and that staff is now focused on treating several injured animals. The outlet reports the farm still has about 20 animals on site that are used for year-round education and events, and the owners have asked the public to come forward with any information that might help identify the dogs' possible owners.
Authorities Investigating as Questions Swirl About Dogs
The El Paso County Sheriff's Office has confirmed it is investigating the attack, local station KRDO reported. Coverage and farm posts noted that the dogs "were not immediately scared as a typical wild dog would be," a detail that officials say raises concern the animals may have an owner nearby, the Denver Gazette added.
Farm Staying Open While Seeking Tips
Even in the wake of the attack, Wishing Star Farm says it plans to continue its travel petting-zoo events while staff cares for the injured animals. The farm has asked anyone with tips about the dogs to reach out through its website. Details on schedules and contact options are available at Wishing Star Farm.
