A wheelchair-bound goat named Manolito has become the beloved face of Second Chance Farm, an animal sanctuary run by Cuban veterinarian Yaileny Selema in Pahrump, Nevada, just an hour from Las Vegas. His Instagram videos have garnered tens of thousands of reactions, touching the hearts of countless individuals, particularly within the Cuban expatriate community.
Born with a mobility impairment that requires assistance for movement, Manolito's spirited personality remains undeterred. In one of the latest reels on the @secondchancefarm_ profile, he can be seen energetically interacting with another sanctuary resident named Alfonso, while Yaileny, amidst laughter, tries to maintain order: “Hey, calm down, Manolito, you're out of control.”
The Rigorous Care Routine Behind the Scenes
Beneath Manolito's vibrant demeanor lies a demanding care regimen. Due to the constant contact with his wheelchair, he requires regular baths to prevent skin irritations. “Bathing him regularly isn't a luxury; it's an essential part of his routine to keep him healthy, comfortable, and happy,” Yaileny explains.
Challenging Farm Animal Stereotypes
Beyond physical care, Yaileny uses every post to question the stereotypes surrounding farm animals. “I no longer know what bothers people more—seeing someone treat a living being with love and dignity or watching farm animal stereotypes being shattered,” she reflects in another of her reels.
Her message is clear: “I believe a dog isn't worth more than a goat, nor is a goat worth less than a horse. They all experience pain, fear, serenity, and well-being.”
“If caring for a living being with love breaks someone's stereotypes, maybe the issue was never the animal, folks—maybe it was the way we were taught to view them. And as long as God allows, I'll be here for them,” Yaileny concludes.
A Sanctuary Built on Love and Dedication
As for Manolito, Yaileny is resolute: “Here, we lift Manolito up, bathe him, dry him, and make his life as normal as possible so he can live with dignity despite his disability.”
Second Chance Farm is a fully self-funded venture that Yaileny operates alongside her partner, also Cuban. The sanctuary is home to over 30 rescued animals—including horses, donkeys, goats, pigs, cows, dogs, cats, and turtles—many of whom remain there permanently due to their advanced age or chronic health conditions. Neither of the founders makes a profit from this work.
Yaileny has dedicated eight years to animal rescue and rehabilitation. “Every animal with me arrived because they were abandoned or sick,” she has stated.
The work of Yaileny and her husband is not only admirable but also a reminder that giving any living being a second chance is an act of boundless love.
Understanding Second Chance Farm's Mission
What is Second Chance Farm?
Second Chance Farm is an animal sanctuary in Pahrump, Nevada, dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating various animals, including those with disabilities or chronic health conditions.
Who is Yaileny Selema?
Yaileny Selema is a Cuban veterinarian who runs Second Chance Farm alongside her partner, focusing on providing care and a loving environment for rescued animals.
Why is Manolito special?
Manolito is a wheelchair-bound goat with a mobility impairment. Despite his disability, he maintains a lively spirit and has become a symbol of hope and resilience at the sanctuary.