Tehachapi News

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What does one do when they are 80 years old and expecting their grown children, grandchildren and great-grandson to visit from out of town, for the weekend?

We have lived in Tehachapi for nearly 20 years and were at a loss as to what might interest the family. With only a little knowledge about it, Saturday afternoon, we took everyone out to the Peaceful Valley Donkey Rescue in Sand Canyon. We understood that there was a large number of donkeys and some other animals being taken care of there, but we were little prepared for the reception we received.

Peaceful Valley is open on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tours and field trips may be arranged by calling 877-782-5527 or going on-line to www.peacefulvalley.info. And better yet it is free. It is a professional rescue organization funded entirely by private donations.

After being directed to drive through the large well cared for fenced areas where there are over 500 donkeys, but also bison, cattle, horses, llamas, pot bellied pigs and others we returned to the gift shop and 'Pet shop animals” exhibit.

For the next hour our adult sons and daughter, to our young 2-year-old great-grandson were all enthralled with the presentation of the various caged animals that had come to the facility by various means.

A large, albino Burmese Python had just shed it skin, and was brought out for viewing and petting. The caregiver of this exhibit shared her great knowledge of the animals as well as helping we humans learn how to care for them.

A bearded dragon named Sydney was a hit with all ages. The shared information, the professional way each animal was presented and the lessons for the youngest member of our family concerning the proper care of the animals as pets were all enjoyed by our family.

We learned that on May 3, they are having a PVDR Festival open to the public for free. A silent auction, raffle tickets and other items will be available as fund raiser for the ongoing care of the animals. Ranch tours will be available at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m. Animal interaction, face painting for kids, concessions, photo opportunities will all help provide a great experience for old and the young alike.

For our 19-year-old grandson, this was the highlight of his visit to Tehachapi. His intent when returning home, is to buy a pet snake and rat, with a better knowledge about what is involved in the care of such pets.