Bob Fraser and Sheri Trout are the owners of Bob N Trout Farm. They manage a small herd of Nigerian dwarf goats, a flock of chickens, a few ducks and Blue Slate turkeys.  Sheri is in charge of feeding and milking the goats, while Bob cares for the chickens.  Sheri and Bob both make time daily to spend with the goats, and note that is what’s special about their farm: that the animals are given individual attention daily. In fact, when it comes to the goats Sheri has trouble getting around because they’re so excited to see her. She explains, “When you walk into their area you can hardly move as the goats all gather around your legs!  It’s funny, too, when you walk outside and the chickens run up to you and then follow you about.  Our animals like to be around us.”

Bob and Sheri decided to join the Animal Welfare Approved program because they believe it is important to bring attention to animal welfare issues, and because animals deserve to be given respect and treated well.  Simply put, Sheri says, “I just am an animal person.” In addition, they learned a lot during the certification process and feel it is beneficial for understanding how to take better care of your animals. They sell a few goat kids each summer, and the Animal Welfare Approved label has helped in advertising and raising program awareness.

Sheri has started a soap venture turning their spare milk into all natural soaps scented with essential oils. She also likes to knit and has thought of raising Angora goats or possibly Alpacas for their fleece.  “I can’t imagine life without my goats.  They bring a smile to my face and I look forward to visiting with them throughout the day.”