Chasing Dreams Ranch – Frequently Asked Questions

---

Chasing Dreams Ranch is a working cattle ranch in West Texas where people are invited to experience real ranch life in an intentional, welcoming way.

Our ranch is built around connection — connection to the land, the animals, and the slower rhythm of life that comes with caring for livestock. While we place a strong emphasis on responsible animal care and thoughtful breeding, our experiences are designed for anyone who is curious about ranch life, whether or not they ever plan to own cattle.

Some guests come simply to experience something different.
Some come to learn.
Some come because they’re interested in cattle but don’t know where to start.

All are welcome.

Our ranch experiences are designed for anyone who wants to step into real ranch life, regardless of background or experience level.

Guests include:

• Individuals and families who are simply curious about cattle and ranch life
• Visitors who want meaningful, hands-on interaction with animals
• People who already own cattle and want to learn more or see different approaches
• Those interested in raising cattle — miniature or standard — but unsure where to begin
• Guests who may never own livestock but want an authentic, memorable experience

No prior knowledge is required. You don’t need to own cattle — or plan to — to belong here.

Yes — but education at Chasing Dreams Ranch looks different than a classroom.

Learning happens naturally through guided interaction, conversation, observation, and time spent with the animals. Guests may learn about cattle behavior, daily care routines, breeding considerations, genetics, and the differences between miniature and standard cattle — all in a way that feels approachable and engaging rather than technical or overwhelming.

Some guests arrive curious.
Some arrive overwhelmed by information online.
Some arrive already owning cattle and looking for clarity.

All leave with a better understanding and a deeper appreciation for ranch life.

When appropriate, yes. Many experiences include guided interaction with our miniature Highland cattle and Highland crosses, such as brushing, standing alongside them for photos, and observing how animals move and behave in a working ranch environment.

All interaction is guided and paced based on animal needs, weather conditions, and ranch operations. Animal welfare always comes first.

Not at all.

Many guests come simply because they want to experience the ranch — to spend time with the animals, take photos, enjoy the setting, and slow down. Others come because they are interested in cattle but feel unsure about where to begin, whether they are considering miniature cattle, standard cattle, or simply exploring what responsible ownership looks like.

Chasing Dreams Ranch is a place to see, ask, experience, and learn — without pressure.

Yes. While miniature Highland cattle are a focus of our program, our ranch also includes Highland crosses and cattle of varying sizes.

This allows guests to better understand differences in size, temperament, genetics, and suitability for different lifestyles and properties. This perspective is especially helpful for guests who are trying to decide what type of cattle may be right for them — or whether cattle ownership is the right fit at all.

Yes. We raise and sell miniature Highland cattle and select Highland crosses intended for companion and small-acreage homes. Our breeding program emphasizes genetics, temperament, structure, and responsible placement.

Cattle sales are part of the ranch, but they are not required to enjoy or participate in our experiences.

If no calves are currently listed, availability may be limited. You may join our waitlist using the “Join Our Waitlist” button on the homepage. Availability changes throughout the year.

Chasing Dreams Ranch is located in West Texas near Trent, just outside of Abilene. As a working ranch, detailed directions are shared only with guests who have a scheduled experience, educational session, or private gathering.

No. All visits must be scheduled in advance. This allows us to manage animal care, ranch operations, and provide a safe, intentional experience for guests.

No. We do not offer casual or drop-in visits. Guests are welcomed through scheduled experiences or gatherings that are intentionally designed and paced.

Yes, on a limited basis. We host private gatherings that align with our ranch values, animal welfare standards, and educational mission.

Chasing Dreams Ranch is not a traditional event venue. Events are intentionally calm, respectful, and family-friendly.

Yes. Chasing Dreams Ranch is a working livestock ranch, and animals are present during all visits. Animal interaction is guided and structured and may vary based on safety, animal needs, weather, and ranch operations.

Gatherings include reserved access to designated ranch spaces for the scheduled time, on-site restrooms, and basic amenities outlined in the booking description. The ranch provides the setting and animals. Planning, decorating, catering, and coordination are the responsibility of the guest unless stated otherwise.

Tables and chairs are available as optional rentals. Décor, linens, catering, and coordination are not provided.

Guests may bring their own food, décor, rentals, and vendors, subject to ranch policies.

Chasing Dreams Ranch does not provide food or beverages and is not responsible for food handling or dietary or allergy-related concerns. Guests are responsible for their own food arrangements.

The barn is insulated and equipped with electricity, internet access, restrooms, heaters, and water-cooled fans to help moderate temperatures. As a working ranch barn, it reflects seasonal conditions.

Yes. Experiences proceed rain or shine unless conditions become unsafe. Typical West Texas weather does not qualify for refunds. If the ranch cancels due to unsafe conditions, rescheduling will be offered.

Chasing Dreams Ranch is a working agritourism ranch with live animals. Closed-toe shoes are required. Guests must follow staff instructions, supervise children, and treat animals and property with care and respect.

Alcohol, smoking, vaping, fireworks, and latex balloons are not permitted.

Yes. A signed liability waiver is required for all guests entering animal-accessible areas or participating in experiences or gatherings.

Yes. Two climate-controlled restrooms are available, including one ADA-compliant restroom, along with a baby changing table and hand-washing station.

No. Outside pets are not permitted due to safety, animal welfare, and biosecurity concerns. ADA-recognized service animals are permitted.

Lodging is available in Abilene, Sweetwater, and Merkel. Limited on-site lodging in the form of a single tiny house is planned for the future, with anticipated availability beginning in summer 2026.

All experiences and gatherings must be scheduled in advance. Availability, descriptions, and booking details are available on our website.