CULLMAN, Ala. – A devastating barn fire at Two by Two Petting Zoo near Enterprise in south Alabama last week claimed the lives of 116 animals, prompting an outpouring of support from farms and community members across Alabama. In response to the loss, Cullman County’s Snead’s Farmhouse and Fortner Farm have partnered to help raise funds and support rebuilding efforts.
Judy Snead, owner of Snead’s Farmhouse, said she felt compelled to help as soon as she learned of the fire. “My heart absolutely sank. As someone who cares for animals every single day, I know how hard it is to lose even one, much less to lose them all at the same time.”
Snead said operating a farm is a full-time commitment that leaves little room for rest, making the loss especially devastating for animal owners. “Having a farm is showing up every day. No vacations, no sick leave, no snow days,” she said. “I know the amount of hard work, sacrifice and dedication it takes to run a petting zoo and care for animals that depend on you for everything.”
Snead said she immediately reached out to fellow petting zoo owner Stephanie Fortner of Fortner Farm, to coordinate a joint effort to help. “Instead of seeing competition, we chose community. When another petting zoo is hurting like this, other businesses have to step up,” said Snead.
The partnership will include fundraising and outreach to help the owner of Two by Two Petting Zoo begin the long process of rebuilding. Snead emphasized that the effort is about more than business. “This isn’t about business. This is about the heart.” Snead said farms supporting one another during times of tragedy reflects the deeper values shared within Alabama’s agricultural and small-business communities. “Farming isn’t just a job, it’s a calling,” she said. “When tragedy strikes, it’s not just a business loss. It’s personal.”
Financial help is urgently needed to support rebuilding and recovery efforts. “I’m asking everyone to consider making a donation,” said Snead. “If you’re not able to give, you can still help by sharing the link, spreading the word and keeping her in your prayers.”
Donations can be made at www.sneadsfarmhouse.com. Donors are asked to include the note “for petting zoo rebuild” to ensure funds are directed toward the recovery effort.
Snead said the response so far reflects the strength of Alabama’s farming community. “When one of us hurts, the rest step in,” she said. “That strength doesn’t come from barns or buildings. It comes from people.”
