MSPCA goat meet-and-greet planned after ‘overwhelming’ interest in adoptions

Who knew how much love there was for goats around here?

The response the MSPCA has gotten from its call-out to help 46 goats released into its care has been “overwhelming,” said spokesman Rob Halpin.

The MSPCA has received more than 200 email and phone inquiries about the farm animals, which are in the care of the MSPCA atNevins Farm in Methuen.

For the first time the farm is inviting interested potential goat adopters to a “meet and greet” Saturday, likely from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., although the timing is subject to change.

Applicants can’t just show up expecting to pile a goat into the car Saturday. The MSPCA will be vetting applicants, Halpin said, and potential adopters should be willingto take two or more of the goats. Ideal candidates would have experience working with livestock.

“This will be a prescreening event,” Halpin said.”Nevins Farm will accept applications, secure adopter references and review home-environment scenarios to ensure they are safe and comfortable for goats.

“The team is asking for patience as they work through all of calls and emails, and will be responding to everyone who has reached out,” he said.

Nevins Farm is at 400 Broadway in Methuen and is less than an hour’s drive outsideofBoston. It’s also accessible by bus off the Haverhill Line. Those interested can contactthe organization at barnstaff@mspca.org.

Don’t live on a farm but still want to help?

Donate to the cause on the MSPCA’s website. Halpin said the farm has already spent $3,000 to care for such a huge pack of goats, and could use a bit of help. Donations are tax-deductable.