Hedrick Exotic Animal Farm and Bed & Breakfast Receives Small Business Award

The Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce is pleased to present the April Small Business Award to Hedrick Exotic Animal Farm and Bed & Breakfast. This incredible business began in 1979 with Joe Hedrick, a man whose love for animals was born in the rodeo arena and grew into a lifelong passion. What started as specialty rodeo acts and 3 full-time employees has evolved into something extraordinary—an exotic animal farm that has touched the lives of millions across the country and today has 18 full-time employees.

What began as a small operation with petting zoos and pony & camel rides, grew into a multi-faceted business enterprise. Over the years Hedrick’s started providing pig races, ostrich and camel races to fairs and festivals, as well as animal actors for stage and film productions across the United States. 

In the height of the off-site work, Hedrick’s had 5 petting zoos traveling coast to coast, border to border, and beyond, even traveling to Hawaii and Canada for performances throughout the year. Currently the traveling work has minimized to one team that travels nearly year-round in various capacities.

Hedrick’s is also home to a truly one-of-a-kind Bed & Breakfast—Hedrick’s has always been about unforgettable encounters between people and animals.

And where else can you wake up to the sight of a kangaroo or giraffe right outside your window?

With over 35 breeds of exotic animals from six continents, guided tours, and nine beautifully themed B&B rooms painted by local artists, Hedrick’s offers something you simply can’t find anywhere else in Reno County—or Kansas, for that matter.

Under the leadership of the second generation, Aryn and the Hedrick’s team have continued to adapt and grow. They’ve invested in the property, navigated the unique challenges of exotic animal care, and remained deeply committed to their guests, their animals, and their community.

From bringing joy to schoolchildren and nursing home residents, to supporting youth sports and local nonprofits, Hedrick’s gives back in meaningful ways. They are more than a business—they are a community treasure.