In my kindergarten dream journal, penciled in under marrying Nick Carter, was meeting a reindeer. Every year I would sprinkle reindeer food all over the driveway (oatmeal and glitter) in the hopes that I may catch a glimpse of Rudolph. While some things have changed since the fifth grade, my love for these amazing four legged creatures has only grown. I learned about the Vermont Reindeer Farm from a click bait article and was immediately entranced.
To say that I planned a whole trip around driving to the Northeast Kingdom of Vermont would not be an exaggeration. If you plan a similar experience, we would definitely recommend staying in nearby Stowe.
Let me tell you a little more about Pauline and John’s animal sanctuary, the Vermont Reindeer Farm. Both dairy farmers by trade, the two share a love for animals and quiet, rural life. One fateful day, Pauline received her Country Woman magazine in the mail. On the cover was a woman, dressed in red, holding her reindeer. Before they knew it, the two were traveling to a reindeer convention to see how they could acquire some for themselves. Ten years later, Pauline is still hooked.
As it turns out finding, buying, and raising reindeer is not an easy feat. It takes a lot of paperwork, permits, planning, and (of course) love. In addition to the three reindeer they have on the farm, their special permit allows them to rescue and raise a variety of rare animal breeds. In fact, the pair have been called upon multiple occasions to save exotic animals from an unsure fate. Including the time they raised an infant fawn, fondly named Maple Annie, in their entryway for upwards of 8 months. On the property they have golden retrievers, deer, horses, pigs, chickens, peacocks… the list goes on. It’s all because of the kindness and hard work of Pauline and John – who say when animals find their way here, it will be their forever home.
pass the tissues please.
The very best thing to support Pauline and John’s s mission is to visit. You can buy a ticket to the tour online. She still works as a substitute teacher where she often changes the lesson plan to – you guessed it – reindeer. So, the dates and times are all on the weekend. When you arrive, you are welcomed into their home where Pauline offers you warm treats and facts about her reindeer. Here you will learn that male and female grow antlers. Additionally, their antler growth pattern is their finger print and grows back the same each year! After a very informative and heart warming presentation, you are brought to meet the girls – all full of personality. Photography and enthusiasm for reindeer are strongly encouraged. Book your tour here!
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It’s where I keep my best ideas.
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