Food
is one of the most important things to consider when it comes to owning and
raising animals on your farm or homestead. For some, homesteading means
complete self-sufficiency. However, for many it just isn’t possible to have
enough space or time to grow enough rations for the livestock you desire. This
is not an excuse to keep from getting animals and enjoying the benefits they
bring to your farm or homestead.
If
you are like me and have a hard time even fathoming what it would be like to
grow all the food for your animals, there is an alternative. Patronizing your
local feed and tack store is just as beneficial as growing your own feed. It can
be a friendly environment that can allow you a little socializing away from
your farm or homestead. It is also a reliable source for feed, even in the
cooler months.
As
some of you may know, our little farm is nestled on an acre within city limits.
We are blessed to have a fantastic establishment just a few minutes away.
Benson’s has been serving the area for generations. Gran has shopped at this
particular store for almost 40 years. It has taught me that customer loyalty
pays off. I started purchasing feed for my animals from them almost 6 years ago
when I purchased my first flock. Ever since then, the relationship built up
with the proprietor and his employees has been priceless. Since we frequent the
store for supplies, there are many instances where I no longer even have to give
my order because they know what I get.
It’s
a bit like being a part of a rather large extended family-which keeps getting
bigger and bigger. As a family would ask after one another, Mr. Benson always
asks after my parents and the farm. He usually asks how the homesteading is
going as well. We like to share with them come Christmastide in the form of
cookie trays or little gifts. The store really is a family affair, as his
grandkids are often in the store taking orders and helping process payments
behind the counter.
Being
a feed and tack store means they carry more than just feed- they supply for all
aspects of life with animals. We purchase alwmost everything we need for all
our animals there-including the dogs. It there is something I need, I will
usually look to see if they have items in stock before searching elsewhere. I
have found that if they don’t carry it in store, they are often willing to
order an item for you if they have the ability to find it. I found out one day
that the store accepts recycled egg cartons, which when I am in need of a
particular type, I can be found rifling through their stash.
I
was blessed to become a patron of Benson’s through family tradition. Since we
are a family here, I wanted to pass on a few tips to help you find a store that
will allow you to have the same great experience.
Online reviews can be misleading
In
this day and age, it seems only natural to jump on one’s phone and scan Yelp or
Google for reviews on a particular business. I caution against this- not
everyone deems it necessary to post a review online. This means that there may
be a bias one way or another with the reviews that are given. I encourage you
to trust your own intuition. It will be of greater service to you in the end.
Actually
stepping through the door can help in allowing your intuition to work. It will
give you a better sense of the place. Take a walk through the store and browse
their inventory. Do they carry items you use? Have a conversation with the
employees. You will likely get the chance to speak with the proprietor, since
it seems to be my experience that they spent quite a bit of time in the store.
This will assist you in getting a feel for the store and help you make an
educated decision as to whether or not the store will fit your needs.
Share with
your new extended family.
This can take any form you feel is
appropriate. Gran and I like to bake cookies at Christmas for the places we go
to often. We make up a tin and deliver it to the store. I started sending a
card to the store at Christmas as a thank you for the service throughout the
year. It can even be as simple as taking your kids into the store upon occasion.
A good feed and tack store
can make all the difference in raising animals on your farm or homestead. If
you don’t already give your patronage to a local store, I encourage you to find
one and visit. You might be surprised.
Ms. B
