Maymont mourns death of Erin the Irish Dexter cow

Mar 11, 2025 - 14:25

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Maymont mourns death of Erin the Irish Dexter cow

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- Erin the Irish Dexter cow from Richmond's Maymont Farm died last week after experiencing a serious digestive disorder.

Erin refused her feed, resulting in a veterinarian to determine that she had an incurable digestive disorder that led to her being "humanely euthanized," according to Maymont Farm.

She arrived as a young heifer back in June 2011 and charmed guests and staff over the past 14 years.

According to Maymont Farm, herd animals benefit from spending time in pairs or groups. The farm emphasized that her pasture companion, Hampton, will receive extra attention in the next few weeks, as they aim to bring in another young heifer to live there with Hampton.

“Erin was a sweet soul who brought joy to anyone who came into contact with her,” said Joe Neel, Maymont Senior Manager of Zoology. “Our animal keepers enjoyed caring for this good-natured girl, who was easy to work with and who truly reveled in special treats we placed in her pasture like Christmas trees and pumpkins.”

Photo Courtesy: Melissa Abernathy

The farm offers visitors the chance to feed goats and observe several domesticated animals, including alpacas, horses, sheep, pigs, chickens and ducks.

“Erin will be missed by the entire Maymont community for her calm pastoral presence,” added Parke Richeson, Maymont President and CEO. “I’ll remember the way she would look directly at you whenever you approached and talked to her. She gave so many community members a positive experience with a typical country farm animal in an urban setting.”