Starting Your Homestead: Practical Steps for Bringing Animals Home

So, you’re thinking about starting a homestead? That’s exciting! Whether you’re planning a cozy backyard setup or a full-scale farm, welcoming animals onto your property is a big step — and one that comes with plenty of questions.

Both Heidi and Sarah have animals on their farms. They serve different purposes but in the process of caring for these animals they have a lot of experience to share!

From breed choices to fencing, feed, and finding the right community support, there’s a lot to think about before your first critter arrives. Here are some practical steps and real-world advice to help you start your homesteading journey the right way.

1. Talk to Experienced Homesteaders & Farmers
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Before you commit to any animal, talk to people who already have them. Seeing animals in action on a working farm gives you an honest look at their behavior, needs, and quirks.

Just like dogs or cats, each breed has its own personality, energy level, and care requirements. Some animals are easier to handle than others, and some can be more “wild” than you expect — especially if you’re new to farming. Firsthand conversations will help you decide what suits your land, lifestyle, and goals.

2. Know Where You’re Getting Your Animals

When it comes to sourcing animals, you’ve got a few options:

• Hatcheries are great for things like chicks, ducks, and poultry.
• Private sales from trusted local farms are usually the safest way to get healthy animals.
• Auctions can be tempting, but unless you’re going with someone experienced, beginners should be cautious. Often animals at auction are sold because they were sick, runts, or just didn’t fit into their previous herd.

And remember — even if you drive to a farm and meet the seller in person, if the situation feels off, it’s okay to walk away. Trust your gut!

3. Prepare Your Fencing and Shelter First

Before you bring any animal home, make sure your property is ready. Every species has different space and fencing needs, and skipping this step can lead to trouble fast (escaped goats, anyone?).

• Research how much pasture or space each animal needs.
• Ensure your fencing is secure and species-appropriate.
• Build or prep shelters so your animals stay safe and dry, especially in extreme weather.

4. Feed: More Than Just a Bag of Grain

Feed is one of the biggest ongoing costs in homesteading, so planning ahead makes all the difference.

• Find a knowledgeable feed store. Some stores specialize in certain animals and can help you learn what your new stock will need.
• Pasture management matters. Do you have enough grazing land, or will you need to buy hay and supplemental feed? Overgrazed pastures won’t recover quickly.
• Buy in bulk. Especially if you’ve got several animals, bulk feed and hay can save you time, money, and last-minute trips to the store.

And don’t forget: a good barn cat (or two!) can save your feed from pests.

5. Build Relationships with Local Vets

Finding a vet who handles farm animals can be challenging, especially in rural areas. Large-animal vets are often in short supply, so make this a priority before you need one in an emergency.

• Get recommendations from other farmers or homesteaders in your area.
• Arrange for your vet to visit and meet your animals early on.
• Keep a backup plan: know which neighbors or friends have the tools, experience, or extra hands to help in a pinch.
• Use social media - there often are Facebook groups for your area that can offer insight or information 

6. Think About Equipment Needs

Homesteading isn’t just about the animals — it’s also about having the right tools for the job. Depending on what you’re raising, you might need:

• Stanchions for safe animal handling.
• A tractor or loader for moving hay bales or assisting a downed animal.
• Calving or lambing supplies, medication, and emergency kits.

When you’re prepared, you’ll be able to handle most situations calmly and confidently.

7. Lean on Your Community

One of the best parts of homesteading is the community. Whether you’re facing a sick animal, preparing for a birth, or learning about pasture rotation, other farmers and homesteaders are an incredible resource.

Sometimes a simple phone call to a neighbor can save you hours of stress (and maybe even save an animal). Local experience is priceless.

Heidi and Sarah want to be your community (whether you live near or far!), you can message them on social media with questions or just want to chat! Find them @heart_of_the_homestead_family
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Final Thoughts

Starting a homestead is deeply rewarding, but it’s also a serious commitment. Whether your dream is to raise chickens, goats, cows, or pigs, proper planning makes all the difference in creating a sustainable, healthy, and happy farm.

Every new animal brings new lessons — so start small, ask questions, and grow from there.
Good luck on your homesteading journey!

Listen to our podcast episode “How to Start a Homestead” for more information about getting things going on your farm!