Lake Erie College Student Designs Prosthetic Leg for Rescued Goat

A Lake Erie College psychology student is using the campus makerspace to create a custom prosthetic leg for an injured goat at her animal rescue sanctuary.

Junior Abby Butcher, who operates an animal sanctuary in Madison with 17 goats, three horses, seven pigs and numerous chickens, rescued Zelda after the goat suffered multiple traumatic injuries including a crushed patella, dislocated shoulder, exposed bone and severe tendon damage.

Following a successful amputation surgery performed in collaboration with The Ohio State University, Butcher committed to restoring Zelda’s mobility through innovative technology.

“Seeing Zelda go from months of pain to having a chance to walk again is one of the most rewarding things I’ve ever done,” Butcher said.

Tower Honors Program Director Dr. Emily Hoopes-Boyd connected Butcher with Dr. Greg Rothwell, who oversees the college’s makerspace. The team began researching and designing a low-cost, functional prosthetic solution using 3D printing technology.

“I had no experience with 3D printing before this,” Butcher said. “Thanks to the incredible support of the campus makerspace, I’ve learned so much. We now have a full plan in place, and once Zelda’s incision is healed, we’ll be ready to fit her for her prosthetic.”

The prosthetic remains in the planning and design phase, with final fitting scheduled for later this fall.

Butcher’s animal rescue work began several months ago after successfully rehabilitating a severely ill baby goat with a 15 percent survival chance. She has since focused on complex medical cases involving abused and neglected livestock, with plans to open two additional sanctuary locations.

The project has influenced Butcher’s career goals. After completing her undergraduate degree with minors in criminal justice, legal studies and writing, she plans to attend law school focusing on agricultural law. She is currently drafting proposed Ohio legislation to increase legal consequences for livestock abuse and neglect.

“The Makerspace didn’t just help one goat, it showed me how tech can play a bigger role in animal welfare,” Butcher said. “I hope this is just the beginning.”

The Lake Erie College Makerspace in Garfield Center provides design tools and fabrication technology access to students and the public, supporting hands-on learning and cross-disciplinary collaboration.