Life With Goats: The Goat Ladies at J & J Second Chance Small Holdings

Reading Time: 6 minutes

by Jennifer Janna — In many ways, this rescue is deeply personal. I grew up on a farm at the base of Mt. Rainier in Washington, where we raised milk cows, goats, pigs, and horses. I was active in 4-H, FFA, and Pony Club, and animals have always been at the heart of my life. After high school, I joined the military, served overseas, lived in various places around the world, was injured, and eventually retired. Those experiences shaped my resilience, sense of responsibility, and commitment to helping others — qualities that now guide my work with both animals and people.

Years later, my daughter was diagnosed with an allergy to cow’s milk, so we got goats to provide her with a safe, fresh source of milk. I’ve always enjoyed making goat milk cheese, ice cream, and more, and sharing the products and processes with others has been incredibly rewarding. Around the same time, my daughter, who is autistic with ADHD, struggled with reading. We discovered that reading to animals — especially goats — gave her freedom: no pressure, no judgment, just calm companionship. It helped her grow in confidence and joy in ways traditional approaches hadn’t. So now we do it for others.

My father, a fellow veteran, was also living with dementia and Alzheimer’s. Having animals around brought him brighter days, comfort, and even supported his memory. I saw firsthand how animals could provide healing and connection — not just for one generation, but for my whole family and others who have been diagnosed with this condition.

During COVID, our mission truly expanded. What began as a small holding — a kind of micro-farm — quickly became so much more. People started reaching out, needing a safe place for their animals when they had lost everything or when they realized they were in over their heads. I not only gave the animals a second chance but also created a space where people could learn how to care for them and talk openly without judgment. That compassion — for both people and animals — has become the foundation of who we are today.

Over time, we realized that teaching people how to properly care for their animals not only helps the animals thrive but also keeps them in loving homes. That’s why we offer a variety of hands-on classes, from Goat 101 and milking workshops to cheese-making, ice-cream-making, and farm skills. These programs empower animal owners with knowledge and confidence, helping both the animals and the people who care for them.

We also use goats and other animals for suicide prevention through our goat therapy programs, offering support, comfort, and connection to schools, individuals, and businesses. As we like to say, “Stopping suicide one fluffy goat at a time!” These programs provide a safe space, free from judgment, where individuals can interact with animals, reduce stress, and experience moments of peace and hope.

Now, J & J Second Chance Small Holdings (also known as The Goat Ladies) is home to more than 250 goats, along with donkeys, ponies, mini horses, cows, dogs, cats, birds, and other animals who have come to us needing a second chance. Each animal has its own story — some were neglected, some abandoned, and some simply no longer had a place to call home. Here, they’re safe, cared for, and loved; each one represents resilience and hope. Through programs like goat reading, therapy visits to veterans and seniors, hands-on farm experiences, goat therapy, and our educational classes, we’ve seen time and again how animals bring healing, learning, and joy.

Just like with a dog or cat rescue, we offer adoptions for goats. The process begins with a simple adoption form to ensure the best possible match between goat and family. The adoption fee isn’t just a cost — it directly helps us continue providing food, shelter, and medical care, and allows us to rescue the next animal in need. When you adopt, you’re not only welcoming a new friend into your life — you’re also giving another animal the chance at a brighter future.

Life With Goats

Life with goats can be rewarding, fun, and filled with laughter, but it’s also a responsibility. Goats are curious, social, and full of personality. We’re always happy to talk with potential adopters about what goat care looks like, how to prepare your home or property, and what to expect when you bring a goat (or two — they’re herd animals!) into your family.

Classes and Education

In addition to rescue and adoption, we love sharing knowledge with our community through a variety of hands-on classes, such as:

• Goat 101 – An introduction to goat care, behavior, and needs.
• Milking Classes – Learn the basics of goat milking and handling.
• Cheese & Soap Making – Transform goat milk into useful, homemade products.
• Farm Skills Workshops – Covering fencing, shelter building, and animal husbandry basics.

Our classes are designed for all ages and experience levels, whether you’re just curious about goats, thinking of adopting, or want to build your homesteading skills.

Healing and Hope

Our rescue isn’t only about saving animals — it’s also about helping people. We host programs that support suicide prevention, emotional wellness, and mental health awareness. Spending time with the goats offers comfort, laughter, and a safe space for those who may be struggling. We work with schools, veteran groups, and community organizations to provide opportunities for connection, healing, and hope. The goats have a special way of breaking down walls and reminding people they’re not alone.

How You Can Help

Not everyone can adopt, but there are many ways to support the rescue:

Monetary Donations: We gratefully accept donations through Zeffy, a free platform that ensures 100% of your gift comes directly to us with no fees taken out. Every dollar goes straight to feed, hay, shelter, and vet care.

In-Kind Donations: We also welcome supplies that help both the animals and the rescue day-to-day, including:

• Hay and livestock feed
• Dog houses (perfect for goats, too!)
• Kid clothes and diapers (for baby goats in need)
• Blankets and dog beds (for warmth and comfort)
• And so much more

Volunteer With Us

We couldn’t do what we do without our volunteers! We welcome both individuals and groups of volunteers to come lend a hand. Whether feeding and grooming animals, buildingfences and shelters, or helping with events, these activities are a fun and rewarding way to make a difference.

Come Visit the Rescue

We also offer visits to the rescue by appointment. Guests can meet the animals, learn about their stories, and see firsthand the impact of the work being done. It’s a wonderful experience for families, groups, and anyone who loves animals.

Business Sponsorships

Local businesses can also play a vital role in supporting our mission. Sponsorships help us bring our animals to the community through programs such as Goat Reading for Children, visits to veteran centers, senior centers, and suicide prevention outreach, as well as schools and other locations. These events spread joy, comfort, and education, while giving people a chance to experience the healing power of animals. Sponsoring one of these events is a meaningful way for businesses to give back while helping us cover travel, setup, and care costs.

Stay Connected

We love sharing updates, behind-the-scenes moments, and rescue stories on social media. Follow us to see the goats in action, learn about upcoming events, and share in the joy:

• Facebook https://www.facebook.com/JJSecondChanceSmallHoldings
• Instagram https://www.instagram.com/jjsecondchancesmallholdings
• TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@jjsecondchancesmhold
• YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@wyomingsmallholdings4013
• For general inquiries, adoptions, donations, or visits, you can also reach us at:
• Mail: PO Box #130, Rock River, Wyoming 82083
• Website: https://www.jjsecondchancesmallholdings.com
• Email: thegoatladies307@gmail.com

Every like, share, and comment helps spread the word about our rescue and connects us with new friends, supporters, and adopters.

Community Matters

We’re grateful for spaces like Life with Goats to share our mission. It allows us to reach people who may be looking to adopt, volunteer, or simply lend a hand. Whether through donations, supplies, volunteering, sponsorship, social media, or spreading the word, every bit of support helps us continue giving animals the second chance they deserve. If you’d like to learn more about adoptions, classes, volunteering, sponsorships, or supporting our rescue, we’d love to connect. Together, we can keep changing lives — one goat at a time.