Butterfield Acres Petting Farm in Calgary officially reopened its doors on Monday, May 18, 2026, following a temporary closure due to a cryptosporidium outbreak. The farm had been shut down in early April after a calf was found infected with the parasite, which causes watery diarrhea in humans.
Joyful Return for Families
Within an hour of opening, families eagerly streamed into the farm. Parents watched over younger children in strollers while others accompanied their kids into the pens to feed and pet the animals. The goat and sheep pens were particularly popular, with visitors delighting in baby goats and lambs prancing over for treats and head pats.
“Just hearing chatter and the kids’ laughter and seeing people smile — that’s such a lovely gift,” said Tania Katay, the farm’s general manager.
Extensive Cleaning Efforts
The farm, located at 254077 Rocky Ridge Rd. N.W., shut down after a calf was diagnosed with cryptosporidiosis. In humans, the parasite can cause symptoms like fever, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and weight loss, typically appearing two to ten days after infection and lasting one to two weeks.
Staff acquired the infected calf and its twin in late March, discovering the infection on April 9. The infected calf was removed, while its twin and other affected animals were isolated. Over the following weeks, staff disinfected pens, replaced boards and fence panels, and scrubbed all surfaces that came into contact with animals or people.
“We have really done everything we can,” Katay said. “There have definitely been some late nights for all of us, just trying to get all hands on deck and get this done so we could open today.”
No New Cases Reported
Since the parasite was discovered, five cases of the diarrheal illness have been reported. However, Katay noted that since May 1, no animals or staff members have shown symptoms. An agricultural veterinarian advised that if no symptoms appeared within 12 days, the farm could safely reopen.
“With her guidance and her confidence in us, that’s why we decided to open this weekend,” Katay said, adding that Monday was chosen due to the warmer and sunnier forecast.
By the 10 a.m. opening time, several cars were already parked, and a group of young children pressed against the fence to watch a llama feeding on hay. Oleksandra Zorgach visited with her two children, ages five and 18 months, along with a friend and their children. Within minutes, she purchased a season pass for the family.
