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Kristen
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Hoof Prints Barnyard
KRISTIN ENG
Hoof Prints Barnyard
Kristin Eng opened Hoof Prints Barnyard in 2015, a unique petting zoo located on eight acres near Kelowna International Airport. Starting the business fulfilled her long-time goal of promoting learning and interaction with nature among children while they enjoy a fun party experience. Facilities include a party room, pony rides, indoor restroom, barbeque, fire pit, covered outdoor eating area and exclusive use of the property.
I am proud to be a farmer today because with today’s technology many people are disconnected from nature. I provide families with an opportunity to intimately interact with a variety of farm animals and escape the day-to-day stresses of their busy lives.
A good day at the office includes seeing people smile, laugh and make wonderful memories. They’re spending wholesome, quality time with their loves ones in a peaceful setting.
A hard day at the office includes …Well, every day includes a lot of work maintaining the property and caring for the animals. On the rare occasion one of our critters is under the weather and not feeling well, it can be stressful. They are all like my children and their well-being is of the utmost importance to me.
My greatest inspiration comes from hearing our guests express pure gratitude for the opportunity to bring friends and family to the farm. It makes all the hard work well worth it.
My advice to others looking to operate a farm business today is make sure you have a clear understanding of the time, energy and budget needed to commit to farming. There are no days off and you have to be willing to make this your lifestyle. It’s definitely not a “typical day job” and there are sacrifices that must be made.
