Modern families and travelers often struggle to find authentic, screen-free outdoor experiences that combine education, relaxation, and genuine animal connection. Commercial theme parks and crowded tourist attractions frequently leave visitors exhausted rather than refreshed. As people seek meaningful ways to slow down, learn about sustainable animal care, and reconnect with nature, Central Florida needs community-centered agritourism destinations that offer personal and educational encounters.
Raymond and Sarah Bell, co-founders of Bell Family Farm in Polk City, Florida, addresses this need by providing guided, interactive petting farm tours and specialized animal-assisted wellness sessions. Centered around miniature zebu cattle, kunekune pigs, goats, and farm education, the farm offers intimate experiences such as cow cuddling and homeschool social programs. In this Executive Q&A, Sarah Bell discusses the heritage of miniature zebu, the therapeutic benefits of hands-on farm encounters, and the farm’s approach to agricultural education.
Q: What inspired you and Ray to establish Bell Family Farm, and why did you choose to focus primarily on miniature zebu cattle?
Sarah Bell: We purchased our 14 acres in Polk City in 2020 with no intentions to start a petting farm, but more to get out of the development of Central Florida and back into nature. Ray’s grandfather gifted us our first to mini zebu, and our friends were so obsessed with them, we made a joke that we should start a petting farm. The joke turned into an idea and an idea turned into reality. We chose mini zebu because they are a healthy, rugged, heat tolerant variety of cattle and our approach to raising animals has always focused on ethics–the right animal for the right location is a key part of that.
Q: Miniature zebu are recognized as one of the oldest and smallest naturally occurring cattle breeds. What unique traits make them ideal for family-friendly farm tours and close animal interactions?
Sarah Bell: They are known for their even temperaments. The variety’s origin is India, where the climate is similar to Florida’s but where cattle are considered sacred and not used for food. They are also used in many societies as agricultural tools–they help clear and improve the land. Visit many Asian and South American countries and you’ll find them simple walking along the roads, co-existing with humans. We knew they would be an attraction because they are small, but also because they enjoy being around people and aren’t skittish.
Q: Your farm offers specialized experiences like the "cow cuddle" session with your cattle. What emotional and educational benefits do visitors experience during these intimate encounters?
Sarah Bell: Aurora and Otto are serotonin generators, I swear. They are so calm, gentle, curious about people and love the extra attention. They lower blood pressure! It’s also a lot of people’s first time sharing up close space with these animals, and they are always a little shocked at how easy they are to be around and how profoundly soothing their presence is. I think it generates a new respect for farms because people can really sense the reverence we have for our animals, and how well treat them. We don’t use our animals for food–we aren’t vegetarians, but these animals are our friends. I like to give American dairy and beef farmers a shout out when I’m conducting a cow cuddle because there’s such responsibility that comes with raising animals and providing food for people. It’s a huge job and I hope I can act as an ambassador for people and animals who help feed us.
Q: Operating a 14-acre family farm involves careful pasture management and dedicated animal welfare. How do you balance high visitor engagement with maintaining a calm, healthy environment for your animals?
Sarah Bell: It’s not easy. We work very hard and are on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Our first responsibility is to the animals–without them, we don’t have a farm. Their welfare is paramount. We are very clear to our visitors that on our farm, we only use gentle hands, we never force animal interaction, and that any inappropriate treatment of the animals is not tolerated. Every animal on our farm has a name, a history and a very special place in our hearts, and we communicate that in no uncertain terms. We also make sure the animals get plenty of time off, lots of enrichment on their own–walks along our property, structures specifically designed for them to climb on, and lots of food, special treats and pasture. There have been times we’ve turned down business and not caved to pressure to be open 7 days a week because the animals’ happiness and health is more important.
Q: Looking ahead, how do you see agritourism evolving in Central Florida, and what new experiences or initiatives do you plan to introduce at Bell Family Farm?
Sarah Bell: I’d love to see more people making visits to agritourism businesses to support the industry. I’m not sure people realize how expensive it is to operate any agricultural business and getting people out of their houses, off their screens and into nature is the very best way to assist in their growth. It’s mutually beneficial.
We have begun two new programs – Animal Themed Story Time for ages 2 and up, where I read to the kids while we all sit in the animal areas. Kids love it and the parents really appreciate the reading part, which is essential to a child’s development. We will also host our first G.O.A.T Meditation this month on September 23 to celebrate the autumnal equinox and give people a place to de-stress–which we all need desperately–for ages 16 and up.
Hands-on agritourism bridges the growing gap between modern lifestyles and the natural world. Through purposeful animal encounters and responsible breeding, Bell Family Farm demonstrates how family-run agricultural spaces can serve as vital hubs for education, stress relief, and family bonding.
As the demand for mindful travel and experiential learning continues to expand, dedicated farm environments will play a crucial role in local communities. Ray Bell’s commitment to animal welfare and guest engagement provides a sustainable blueprint for making agricultural heritage accessible to all generations.
To learn more visit https://www.bellsminizebu.com/