Why Can't People Do That?

Sometimes there's a story in the news that makes you feel sad and happy at the same time. Our free resource this month is just such a story. Deer Haven Ranch in Montana is a retirement home for creatures ranging from henpecked roosters to abused alpacas. " I only take animals that others consider throwaways," says the owner.  

Sissy, a 14-year-old horse, is blind. And she was in danger of being put down when the animal shelter in which she lived was going to close down. Deer Haven took her in, but they didn't just take her in, they also welcomed Sissy's caregivers--a team of five goats and five sheep who guide her everywhere. The animals help her to shelter, they show her where her food and water is and they never leave her.

Michelle Feldstein, the co-owner of Deer Haven, says 'she marvels at the blind mare and her[sheep and goat friends]. "There's a magic involved in sheep, goats and a horse becoming best friends," she said. "When you watch them, you have to wonder, why can't people do that?"'

Students of all levels will enjoy this Pre-Intermediate lesson, "Seeing-Eye Sheep and Goats".  We have photos of Sissy and there are also some great reading and language exercises. Subscribers can follow it up with our latest Instant Workbook, "Seeing-eye Sheep and Goats" with students practicing reading comprehension, work on adjectives and playing hangman.

We hope your students enjoy this lesson as much as we enjoyed making it. Sometimes, why can't people be more like animals?

Best wishes
The English-to-go team

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Need some ideas for things to do in July?
What Shall We Do?
Try our Featured Instant Lessons and Weekly warmers on festivals and wacky events held around the world in July.