Lars the Reindeer: Santa’s Newest Recruit?

In a heartwarming tale of survival and cross-species friendship, a young reindeer named Lars is defying the odds at a farm in England.

Born in May, the calf faced a precarious start to life. Veterinary experts and farmers alike warn that hand-rearing reindeer is a notoriously difficult task, with very few calves surviving without their mothers. However, Lars has proven to be the exception to the rule, thanks to the dedication of his keeper, Angie Nelson.

A ‘Puppy’ in Hooves

For the first few weeks of his life, Lars didn’t sleep in a barn or a stable. Instead, he lived indoors, sleeping in a specially constructed small pen right next to Nelson. She credits his survival to a regimen of constant care and simple, genuine affection.

This unusual upbringing had an unexpected side effect. Growing up inside the farmhouse meant Lars spent his formative weeks alongside the farm’s dogs rather than a herd of deer.

The result is a reindeer with a bit of an identity crisis. According to Nelson, Lars has picked up behavioral traits from his canine companions. Unlike a typical grazing animal, he reportedly follows commands and responds to his keeper much like a well-trained family pet.

Joining the Herd

Despite his domestic upbringing, Lars is now transitioning to life as a proper reindeer. He has successfully moved outdoors and is slowly settling in with the rest of the herd.

The timing couldn’t be better. With the festive season fast approaching, the farm is gearing up for its busiest time of the year. Staff expect the friendly, dog-like reindeer to take a starring role in upcoming seasonal events.

From a fragile calf sleeping in a kitchen pen to a thriving member of the herd, Lars has completed a remarkable journey. And should Santa Claus find himself short of a helper this Christmas Eve, he might just find a willing volunteer in England—provided the command is given like a dog treat.

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