Police in Dayton, Ohio, have successfully captured a goat that had been roaming neighborhood streets and causing property damage for several months. The animal, named Cardio by officers due to the extensive effort required to catch him, was spotted once again last month, prompting a three-officer foot pursuit through suburban areas. After approximately 90 minutes and covering two miles, the goat was restrained with a snare and transported to the Humane Society of Greater Dayton.

Cardio, a year-old Oberhasli dairy goat weighing about 35 pounds, had reportedly escaped at least seven times. Police attributed his behavior to natural instincts in search of elevated surfaces, similar to the rocky environments favored by his ancestors. Authorities declined to specify the nature of Cardio’s previous living situation or confirm whether he had been kept on a farm.

At the shelter, Cardio appeared solitary and occasionally vocalized when hearing dogs. Staff fed him pellets and lettuce, observing that the goat seemed to seek companionship. The organization reached out to Cardio’s owner, who chose to relinquish him in the hope that he would find a more suitable environment. On September 16, the shelter publicly advertised the goat, emphasizing the need for an appropriate home with other goats and individuals committed to earning his trust while minimizing further damage to personal property.

Cassie Keeton, an animal caregiver residing on a goat farm in nearby Fairborn, learned of Cardio’s story the morning after the announcement. The farm, which houses around 50 goats and conducts public outreach such as goat yoga and visits to schools and nursing homes, frequently cares for rescued or at-risk animals. After submitting an adoption application, Keeton visited Cardio at the shelter the same day. Despite initial concerns about the goat’s temperament, she was reassured when Cardio accepted food from her hand and approached willingly.

Keeton transported Cardio to her farm, where he began socializing with several resident goats, including a Nigerian dwarf and an Anglo-Nubian, as well as local geese and ducks. The animal is gradually adapting to a new diet consisting of hay and natural forage such as leaves, pine, apples, and honeysuckle. Keeton expressed hopes that Cardio would grow comfortable enough to provide therapeutic interaction to people but emphasized the importance of allowing the process to proceed at a natural pace.

“The last thing we want is him vandalizing somebody else’s car,” Keeton said, underscoring the need for patience and proper care as Cardio settles into his new home.