Alice is a full time Biology student working towards becoming a vet. She also owns and runs an animal sanctuary with her husband where they reside on three acres of land, in the countryside south of Atlanta.
The Cynefin Sanctuary is self funded for now as they work to make it a non-profit, however they still accept donations! Alice also forages local ingredients to make handmade botanicals and tinctures for her business Wild Offerings – with proceeds helping fund her mission. Her love and care for the earth and animals is super inspiring – she also makes herbal blends for her horse, and her chickens even get fresh lavendar buds to lay on in their coop at night.
Read on for more about Alice’s mission, what a typical day is like at Cynefin, and some words of wisdom on why you should follow your dreams too.
Can you briefly share with us how you started your sanctuary?
The Cynefin Sanctuary (pronounced ki-nev-in ) happened very organically. It’s been a dream of mine since I was little to have a place where animals could live their lives knowing only love and kindness. My husband and I were living in the city of Atlanta for two years and decided we wanted the country life. I grew up in rural England so going back to my roots of country living was natural. We ended up with three acres 40 miles south of Atlanta and I decided it was the right time to open our doors to animals in need. We had been at our new home for only a month when an opportunity arose to give a home to chickens, ducks & quail. Thus, The Cynefin Sanctuary was born.
Was there any hurdles you had to overcome to get it going?
We have been really lucky, to be honest, with minimal hurdles. My husband and I worked really hard to prepare our pasture for the animals, and planning was really key. Also, living so rural we didn’t have to apply for permits, etc. to actually house animals. Vet bills can sometimes be a challenge but I’m working toward becoming a non-profit organization, which will be a huge step for our mission.
How many animals do you have now?
We currently have 65 animals at Cynefin and are slowly growing. We actually have a very special resident arriving soon. A beautiful little mini pony that needs a loving place to retire. She has a permanent limp due to a tendon injury and we are so excited to be able to give her a forever home.
Can you tell us about your offerings that help you support it?
I started Wild Offerings because I wanted to find a different way to help support our mission. Herbalism and holistic healing is huge part of my life and I wanted to share my earth medicines whilst being able to help our animals at the same time. I hand make everything with wild crafted, organic, ethically sourced botanicals, and pour soul and love into all my creations.
What is the biggest lesson animals have taught you?
Animals have taught me so much. Above all, how important kindness and love is. Animals have the most pure, humble souls. They are filled with love and never ask for anything in return. They are a daily source of inspiration for me. I spent most of my young life worrying about such unimportant things; animals have this incredible way of living completely in the moment and it’s a beautiful thing to witness and learn from. They have managed to teach me what is truly important in life and for that I’m forever grateful.
What’s a typical day like for you?
A typical day at Cynefin starts with breakfast for everyone. I get everyone up out of bed, clean and refill all water sources, sprinkle grain around the pasture, and fill up all their food bowls. Their health and wellness is of utmost importance, so I hand feed everyone wild bird seed and my herbal mixture to get a closer look at their feathers, eyes and feet. On cleaning days I empty all the coops and nests, laying down fresh shavings and straw, then sprinkle lavender buds everywhere as a natural pest deterrent that smells lovely.
Throughout the day I check in, take down snacks and refill waters. I love being around the animals as much as possible. At around 6pm they all start putting themselves to bed (chicken compass, lol) and I will do a head count before locking up all the coops so everyone is safe and sound throughout the night.
What’s your favourite thing about running your sanctuary?
My favourite thing about running a sanctuary is knowing I am providing a safe, loving home for so many beautiful beings. All animals deserve love, and I’m just so grateful I can give that in abundance. They bring me so much joy, I really can’t imagine life without animals.
What’s the most difficult thing about it?
The hardest thing is when an animal gets sick. I have close bonds with each and every one of them and sometimes you have to make the decision to let them go. It can be truly heartbreaking to lose a resident. I often say this to people who see my life as completely idyllic – it’s not always rainbows and butterflies. It’s one of the most rewarding things I’ve ever done, and the hard moments can sometimes really get you down, but I wouldn’t change a thing.
Any other passions you pursue or want to?
Yes, I’ve recently been accepted to university to study Biology. It’s been a life long dream and it’s finally the right time. It just made sense to me as animals and nature are the driving force behind my life.
Best advice for others wanting to follow their dreams?
My advice would be to just do it. Listen to your heart. Listen to your soul. Yes, there will challenges and yes there will be risks you may have to take. It will all be worth it in the long run as you are turning your passion into a reality and that is a truly wonderful feeling. I find having a form of support is important too. Whether it comes from family, friends or a spouse. I wouldn’t be where I am today without the amazing support from my husband.
