Diane (that’d be me) and Andy Nedrow (who’d be my husband), along with 8 mini donkeys and 2 mini mules make up the crew at Brayhope Farm. We’re a recently formed 501-c3 farm located in Upstate New York (specifically Phoenix in Oswego County). Our goal for those that participate in a visit to the farm is to instill the calming, peaceful and memorable experience that these tiny equines bring to people in our somewhat difficult and complex world of today. Visits are free of charge.
Why? I had to reach deep within myself to pull my “why” up and put it into words. My relationship with animals goes way back to when I was very young. My horse, Dawn, was very special to me. As soon as school was over, I’d be saddling her up and meeting with other horse neighbors to trail ride together. My golden retriever, Bridget, was there for me when I needed someone to talk to during the ever so common tumultuous teenage years. We’d take a walk to the river where she would happily retrieve sticks from the water while creating a sense of calm for me at the same time. The power of the human/animal bond is real and humbling.
Andy and I have always had and loved animals. He was raised on a dairy farm and I have had horses for most of my life. During COVID in June 2020 we had been without horses for 4 years and missed that part of our life. When we saw Ralph and Gus looking for a new home, we thought “why not”?! Within the next year we added 4 more. And the following year, another 4. We obviously are enamored with the little guys and have a serious donkey/mule addiction! I guess there could be worse things….
I was fortunate enough to retire this year (2023) and needed something to keep me busy. Not to mention that the Brayhope boys need a job. The adorable part came naturally for them, and I’ve always had a soft spot in my heart for kids and animals. So why not put it all together and afford anyone (young or old) that has suffered or struggled with difficult life challenges to come experience the comforting benefit of donkey love? I want to share the farm experience with those who have not had that opportunity or maybe to enhance that experience for those not familiar with how gentle and loving donkeys can be.
This is “why” Brayhope Farm came into existence! Being a new venture, we’re here to learn and grow. I have a lot of ideas of what I would like Brayhope Farm to become and, thankfully, I am a very patient person and know that all good things come with time. So….if you are a member of a group of people or know of a group of people that might enjoy and benefit from a farm visit, please reach out to us. Together we can spread some joy and happiness, if even for a short period of time!
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