Kentucky Family Rescues Newborn Calf from Freezing Conditions

Sun Feb 01 2026 08:45:58 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

In a heartwarming gesture, a family in Kentucky brings a newborn calf inside to protect it from extreme cold temperatures, offering a glimpse into rural life and animal care during harsh winter conditions.

During a recent cold snap, the Sorrell family from Mount Sterling, Kentucky, opened their home to a newborn calf found suffering outdoors in severe winter temperatures. The calf, named Sally, was quickly warmed up, loved, and cuddled by the family’s children, showcasing the compassion often found in agricultural communities. The family, accustomed to caring for their livestock, emphasized that bringing animals indoors is a necessary part of farm life.

LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Amid the harsh winter conditions gripping parts of Kentucky over the weekend, the Sorrell family made a heartwarming decision to bring a struggling newborn calf into their home to protect it from the extreme cold.

After discovering the calf outdoors in single-digit temperatures, Macey Sorrell noted that her husband, Tanner, quickly recognized the urgency of the situation. She was just frozen. Her umbilical cord looked like a popsicle, Macey described how the calf was in dire need of warmth and care.

Working quickly, the Sorrells brought the calf inside, cleaned her off, and used a blow dryer to warm her up. Within hours, the calf found a cozy spot on the couch next to the family's two children, who were delighted to bond with their new friend. Macey captured this touching moment on camera, showcasing the connection between the Sorrell children and their unexpected housemate.

After a challenging night, Sally, as named by their three-year-old son Gregory after a character from his favorite movie, “Cars,” was able to reunite with her mother the following morning. The calf is reportedly doing well and recovering from her exposure to the harsh winter elements.

“It’s just part of what you do,” Macey explained, underscoring the importance of animal care in rural life and how bringing animals indoors is a routine part of farm management during extreme weather. Although Macey initially hesitated to share Sally's photos on social media, the overwhelming positive response from friends highlighted the charm and relatability of rural life challenges.