TEMPLE, Texas — Tiny Hooves Rescue and Petting Zoo, Central Texas' largest nonprofit livestock and exotic animal rescue, is preparing for a major transition as it relocates from Temple to the Texas Panhandle.
Founded by Shelby Michalewicz nearly a decade ago, Tiny Hooves has grown to house nearly 200 animals, including disabled cows, goats, sheep, turkeys, ringtail lemurs, chinchillas and parrots. The rescue specializes in caring for disabled animals, bottle babies, surrendered pets and strays.
"We have just continued to grow every year," Michalewicz said. "We never planned on leaving Central Texas, but our promise to these animals was always to give them a safe, forever loving home."
The move comes after unexpected evictions from their current properties. With their lease ending on Dec. 31, Tiny Hooves is in the process of closing on 62 acres of farmland in the Panhandle.
"The property we're purchasing is something that will never be able to be kicked off of," Michalewicz explained. "It has lots of space for us to be able to build enclosures for many of the disabled animals that we have."
To fund the relocation, Tiny Hooves has launched a fundraising campaign with a goal of $10,000. So far, they've raised close to $4,000. Michalewicz is also contributing $175,000 from her inheritance to cover additional fees.
Despite the challenges, Michalewicz remains committed to the rescue's mission.
"I have to work hard and provide for them because that's what I promised them and that's what we plan to do," she said.
The new property will include a cabin that Tiny Hooves hopes to convert into an Airbnb for visitors. Even after the move, the rescue plans to continue supporting Central Texas by working with other rescues across the state and beyond.
As they prepare for this new chapter, Tiny Hooves is grateful for the community's support. In addition to financial donations, they are also accepting fencing materials.