We had the good fortune of connecting with Rebeka Halbert and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Rebeka, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I’ve always wanted to have a farm. It was a childhood dream. I would sit and draw farm plans with all the animals I dreamed of having. I am originally from Hawaii so having a farm there was never possible since land is scarce. I moved to Texas and was able to purchase land in 2013. I love the idea of being my own boss and being in control of my destiny. Owning my own business means I benefit from how much work I put in. I’ve worked in corporate America for most of my career where long hours lined the pockets of companies and executives.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
We breed and sell rare and miniature livestock specializing in a rare pasture pig called Kunekune which originated in New Zealand. We also breed a threatened chicken breed called the Salmon Faverolle. And the only natural miniature cow called a zebu from India. We do airbnb animal experiences https://www.airbnb.com/halbertfarm . They are a 1.5 hour interaction with our animals where you learn about the breeds. We love educating people on how smart and amazing pigs are. Over 90% of pet pigs are abandoned before they turn 1 years old. Mini pigs can live for 20+ years so having a pet pig is a huge commitment. We strive to educate and share the joys of pigs and animals to everyone. Our business plan is pretty different from most farms. We focus on breed preservation and health over profit. Instead of letting a sick or “defective” piglet suffer we always take them to the vet. One common issue piglets have are being born with hernias. Piglets with a hernia should never be bred. Most farmers will cull these animals, we pay for the $400 surgery and then try to find them a home. We sell the pet pigs for $400 so we break even on the surgery but not any of the other expenses that go into raising a piglet. Another thing we do differently is having a 7 day 100% money back guarantee just in case someone gets home and realizes a pet pig is not for them. We don’t want any pig to end up in a bad situation and do not want people feeling trapped into keeping a pet that is not right for them. On top of that we have a forever home guarantee clause. All of our pigs are always welcome back with no questions asked at anytime. We also require first refusal if they are trying to sell or rehome a pig that came from our farm. Focusing on our airbnb tours as our main source of income has really helped us become the farm we wanted and giving our animals the best lives and care.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend was visiting we would take them around the farm to meet all the animals first. Then Babes in Burleson is a must have experience for anyone visiting Texas. It is family style southern food. Make sure to bring your appetite! If you are into wine, we have the cutest little winery with vineyard up the road from us called Lost Oak Winery. They do live music and tours. If you want to try Texas BBQ I highly recommend Heim BBQ in White Settlement. Then for a true Texas experience be sure to visit the Fort Worth stockyards.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Josh @the_swole_farmer is my business partner and runs all the day to day activities for the farm. He is also a personal trainer and body builder. The animals all love him and we would not be where we are today without him!

Website: https://www.halbertfarm.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/halbertfarm

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/halbert-farm-kunekune-pigs

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/halbertfarm

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/halbertfarm

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/halbert-farm-kunekune-pigs-burleson

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBzhEHwdrYPqKj56ncwSuww

Image Credits
Andi Smith for the photo of me The rest of the photos are taken by me Rebeka Halbert

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