When an animal control officer found this vulnerable calf in the road, it was clear he needed help. Omi was taken in by Haven Pet Center in San Jacinto, where he lived happily for five years. When the growing steer needed more room and care than the shelter could provide, the team turned to Farm Sanctuary for a forever home for Omi and his lifelong goat pal, Taco.

Since they arrived, Omi and Taco have quickly made themselves at home, adjusting to the sanctuary life—and they’ve branched out in their social lives, making many new friends! 

Omi joined our herd of rescued cows, who gave the newcomer a warm welcome.

Leo and Omi graze together

“Omi is doing great! He is one with the rest of his herd now and enjoys grazing in the back pastures with them,” says caregiver Nicole Gaglione. “He is pretty spunky and wild at times with us, but he loves pets and being groomed when he is calm and lying down.”

We’re happy to say that Omi seems to make friends with every cow he meets, although he can often be found eating alongside the adorable Oscar in particular.

It’s likely that Omi has adjusted to life at Farm Sanctuary so quickly because it’s not the first place he’s been shown so much kindness. The team at Haven Pet Center cared for Omi for years, and we’re glad they can still see their friend, with whom they share a special bond.

Recently, Omi and Taco’s former guardians came to visit them both at Farm Sanctuary for the first time, and the reunion was heartwarming as longtime friends reconnected.

We can’t be sure who abandoned him, but it’s likely Omi was born into the dairy industry. Because male cows can’t produce milk, many born on dairy farms are sold to be raised for beef or veal, while some who are deemed unprofitable are discarded like trash or killed.

At Farm Sanctuary, we know that every animal is someone, not something—someone who matters. Here, farm animals like Omi are valued for who they are, not what they can produce.

Thanks to his rescuers, Omi found a second chance—and at sanctuary, his future is looking brighter than ever.