Meet Our New Lamb…”What’s-Iz-Name” 

“His name is, “Oreo!” 

Rancho Santa Fe, CA – “Johnny Doe Lamb” is now known as, “Oreo!” The lamb arrived at Helen Woodward Animal Center in February, just a few days old and weighing only 9 pounds. Animal lovers donated $10 each to submit their name suggestions including, “Baaa’rack, Obaaa’ma, Pinto, Squad Car, Cheerio, Woodie, and Jagger.”  

The name was selected from nearly 85 entries by Linda Edwards, a long-time HWAC supporter and recipient of the Center’s Humane Award. HWAC spokesman John Van Zante says that naming this lamb is the same as any other family naming a new pet. “Oreo will spend the rest of his life in our Humane Education program where he will impact the lives of tens of thousands of children. It’s important that his name suits his appearance and his personality. Linda made a great choice.”   

Oreo was part of a litter of triplets born in Ramona on February 11. Female sheep usually give birth to twins. Van Zante explains that a ewe with triplets pushes the weakest lamb aside. In this case, Oreo was born to a family involved in 4-H. They contacted HWAC Education Manager Christy Dunn, who took the lamb. 

Dunn says that Oreo has stolen the hearts of the staff, volunteers, and children who visit the Center. “He’s 23 pounds and growing every day. There’s only one resident who’s not so sure about having Oreo as a neighbor. ‘Sparky,’ our llama, is serenaded throughout the day with high-pitched, ‘Baa’s. At night Oreo goes to a stall at our Equine Hospital so Sparky can get some peace and quiet.”  

Oreo is a black and white, “hair sheep”, meaning that he has hair instead of wool. He’s expected to become a 150 to 175 pound adult sheep.  

To learn more about, “Oreo” or Helen Woodward Animal Center’s other programs visit the Center at 6461 El Apajo Road in Rancho Santa Fe, call 858-756-4117.