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

Hi Sarah, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
We ran our own business for twelve years, boarding and in-home pet care, but sold it in 2018. While we were running that business, we were able to find ways to give back, such as fostering dogs, hosting fundraising events, and more. I wanted to find a way to still work with animals and give back. In July 2022, I saw a post on social media looking for volunteers to help with wildlife rehabbers in the area. I attended a volunteer session, and I knew I had found my calling.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
We started our non-profit wildlife rehabilitation center in 2023, so we are still fairly new. What I’ve learned since becoming a part of this journey is there are so many other rehabilitators out there willing to help you when you need it. There have been those that will take my 2 AM phone calls and texts when we have an animal is critical need, there have been people that share their advice and supplies, and those that can lend an ear when you just need to talk through a case.

We have been so truly fortunate to have such a great group of supporters that it has enabled us to take in over sixty animals this year alone. It’s exhausting, but it is so very rewarding.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Well, I would obviously give them a tour of our place! Our little farm is on seven acres and consists of 2 crazy dogs, 3 cats, 3 alpacas, 2 mini donkeys, 3 mini horses, 3 chickens, 4 fish, and 3 boarding horses.

As far as wildlife goes, we currently have 22 fawns and 7 squirrels. These numbers change daily, sometimes hourly in the early months of fawn season!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I grew up in a family of animal-loving members – my Grandfather, Mom, Dad and Aunt Valerie. They all taught me to love and respect creatures great and small.

In addition to my family, some of the greatest people I know I have met through the animal world – there are so many I admire and respect. Kristin, Carla, Ellie, Nicole, Stacy, Alan, Heather, Cat, Tiffany, Michelle, and so many others.

Website: https://www.smithwickstation.org

Instagram: https://instragram.com/smithwickstation

Facebook: https://facebook.com/smithwickstation

Image Credits
Taken myself – two of our 2023 fawns that were both hit by cars and arrived within 24 hours of each other. They bonded immediately.

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutAtlanta is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.