Family adopts stray goose

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CHAMPAIGN, Ill., Aug. 3 (UPI) -- An Illinois family said they have adopted a goose that showed up on their property and refused to leave unless they went with him.

Aretha Johnson of Champaign said the goose, which they have dubbed Aflac, showed up at their home Saturday morning and pounded against their door until they came outside to see the water fowl, which appeared to be limping, ABC News reported Friday.

"This is a good goose," Johnson said. "He's become a family member now."

Johnson said family members have been taking turns walking Aflac to help him regain his strength.

"We thought he couldn't fly at first, but we got him back strong," Johnson said.

Johnson said the goose has formed a particularly strong bond with her son, Jarrell, 26.

"My son will call him, and he'll fly up in his arms," Johnson said. "My son will go down the street, and (Aflac) will flap and chase my son."

Johnson said she has contacted animal control and police about the goose, but they only referred her to other agencies.

"He's so domestic, I'm afraid he won't want to go to his natural habitat," Johnson said. "We're willing to have someone come and look at him."