The Legacy of George Michael

Forever Loved

We write this with sorrowful hearts to share that  beloved George Michael has passed.

Despite our best efforts—exhausting every test, treatment, and available option—his condition continued to worsen. As always, we fought not only to provide every possible avenue of care, but also to honor his quality of life. Letting go is never easy. It is one of the most difficult decisions we face, but it is also one of the most selfless acts of love we can offer.

George Michael was steadily losing weight, and his condition had reached a point where it could not be reversed. Continuing treatment would have meant prolonging his suffering, leading to the heartbreaking possibility of him becoming unable to stand—with no hope of recovery.

In the end, we chose peace for George. We chose to relieve him of his pain rather than hold on for our own hearts. That final act of compassion is something we give with love, always putting the resident’s well-being ahead of our emotional attachment.

George Michael will be deeply missed, not only by the team who cared for him so dearly, but by all who knew his story and cheered him on. His spirit will live on in our work, in our hearts, and in every life we fight to protect.

Thanks to the Care Team’s diligent daily observations, they noticed that George Michael had begun regurgitating his cud instead of chewing it—a concerning sign in ruminants. He was quickly transported to the Auburn University Large Animal Teaching Hospital, where he was seen by three veterinary specialists and received every available diagnostic test and treatment, including a blood transfusion.

Despite exhaustive efforts, his condition remained without a definitive cause. He began losing weight rapidly, and despite recieiving expansive treatment, nothing proved effective.

George Michael passed away at the hospital, surrounded by love. He spent his final moments by the side of his longtime caregiver, Emma, and even shared a FaceTime goodbye with his longtime friends on the board.

After his passing, Emma brought George Michael back home to the sanctuary. We believe deeply in the emotional lives of animals—and in the importance of honoring their relationships. George Michael was gently returned to his pasture one final time, giving his family the chance to say goodbye before he was taken for cremation.

Animals grieve, too. When possible, we always strive to give them the opportunity for closure and acceptance. We can’t bring every resident home after their passing—but when we can, we do.

George Michael’s presence, strength, and quiet spirit will be forever missed. His final moments were filled with love and dignity—just as his life at FCFS always was.

When George Michael arrived at Full Circle in 2017, he and his friends Jesse and Salty were severely malnourished and suffering from heavy parasite loads due to a lack of proper nutrition and veterinary care. After years of consistent treatment and close monitoring, all three goats regained their health and were eventually able to join the "Bachelor" goat group.

George formed close bonds with Josh and Salty, two of the gentlest members of the herd. He was a sweet and curious goat, known for his loud and unmistakable voice—especially around mealtimes. George made sure we never forgot his breakfast or dinner, often calling out until his food arrived. His vocal enthusiasm would usually tip off Shane, the boss goat, which made feeding time a little more complicated.

George loved getting gentle scratches from caregivers and was always inquisitive but kind. Though soft in spirit, he could hold his own during playful moments with his family. He was truly one of a kind, and his presence is deeply missed.

No matter if a resident is at FCFS for years, months, or mere moments, caring for them in their final moments—and honoring them after they pass—is just as important to us as the care we provide while they are alive.

To show our lasting respect, we’ve created a beautiful memorial space inside the FCFS lodge, dedicated to celebrating the lives of those who have left their pastures behind. George Michael will soon join his fellow residents in this sacred space.

Though they may be gone, their stories—and the impact they made—will live on forever.

If you would like to support George Michael's legacy, you can contribute to the Full Circle Farm Sanctuary Memorial Fund.