Affectionate and affable, Ash sheep is often one of the first residents to greet caregivers in the morning at our New York sanctuary. Not only does Ash happily accept pets and scratches, he actively—and adamantly—requests them. He’s well known among caregivers for his signature warm nuzzle, and for the way he eagerly leans in for scratches—sometimes even pawing gently to ask for attention (or the occasional fig bar, his favorite treat).

While he gets along well with the other sheep, Ash can be adorably greedy for human affection. If he senses someone else cutting in on cuddle time, he won’t hesitate to step in front of other sheep or even climb into caregivers’ laps to steal more scratches for himself.

Ash enjoys many friendships at Farm Sanctuary, both human and ovine, but his strongest bond is with his mother, Connie. A caring and affectionate sheep herself, Connie can often be found standing watch over Ash while he’s playing in the pasture or standing at his side as the two greet caregivers together.

Although Ash receives all the love and care he deserves now, his early life was marked by hardship that forged a deep bond between him and his mom.

As a lamb, Ash lived on the property of a farmer who claimed to have rescued his flock—but reality told a different story. Ash and the other sheep, including Connie, were left without adequate food, water, or shelter. As they struggled to survive in brutal, subzero temperatures, Ash clung to his mom for support. Her presence provided much-needed reassurance as they endured conditions no animal should face.

Ash and Connie arrived at Farm Sanctuary in December 2016, but it took time for Ash to trust his new caregivers. Like many animals who have been failed by humans, he was understandably fearful.

Over time, with his mom by his side, Ash began to relax. The consistent care, warmth, and patience from his caregivers showed him that human hands could bring comfort—and that he was finally safe. Before long, the shy lamb blossomed into the affectionate social butterfly everyone knows today. Ash has become such a flock favorite at Farm Sanctuary that he’s featured on merch! 

Ash’s story is a reminder that sheep are far more complex than they’re sometimes perceived to be. They are intelligent individuals with unique personalities, emotionally rich lives, and the capacity for deep trust and affection. Ash isn’t “just a sheep”—he’s a friend, a mama’s boy, a treat enthusiast, and a source of joy to all who know him.