Man who hand-raised goats says farewell will be “painful but religious duty”

A man’s emotional attachment to his pet goat, which he has raised “like a child”, has melt hearts online ahead of Eid-ul-Adha.

Talking to Dialogue Pakistan, the owner, who has kept livestock for several years, said his interest in animals began in childhood when he would keep chicks and parrots as pets before later moving on to goats. Over time, he has cared for several goats, but says one named “Ballu” holds a special place in his life.

He explained that Ballu was brought home when he was just one month old and was hand-fed and cared for personally.

“I raised him with my own hands, like my own child,” he said. “From the moment I brought him home, he became part of the family.”

The owner said the goat quickly became deeply attached to him and even responds when called by name.

He also described a strict daily care routine, including regular feeding, cleaning, bathing, and spending several hours each day with the animals.

“I spend time with them every morning and again for several hours at night,” he said, adding that he regularly asks family members to send him videos of the goats when he is away from home.

The man also introduced other goats in his care, including one nicknamed after a character from the Indian web series Mirzapur due to its bold behaviour, and another named for its jet-black coat.

Despite offers reportedly made for Ballu, the owner said the goat has already been designated for sacrifice during Eid-ul-Adha.

He became emotional while describing the bond he shares with the animal. “People may think it is just a goat, but to me he is like family,” he said.

Recalling a recent incident, he said he stayed up overnight while waiting for veterinary treatment when the goat fell ill. “I could not eat or sleep properly until the doctor arrived,” he said.

The owner said he had recently spent time sitting with Ballu and became emotional at the thought of parting with him.