Today we’d like to introduce you to Cherrice Purvee.
Hi Cherrice, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Ken and I first began working with animals as we grew our homestead farm, which has also produced extra income. The farm became a staple in our community and became large enough that we could afford to send our kids to college.
Once they moved out, we used our time, property, and lifestyle to give back to the community. As a 501c3, we improve the future of pet keeping while preserving our natural flora and fauna by sharing education regarding how invasive species affect our natural environment.
To ensure the best care for the residents at our facility, we grow food sources such as fish, snails, and edible plants that require commercial-style greenhouses.
Instead of applying for grants or relying on donations, we built the Crazy Plants Nursery to cover expenses such as vetting, diet, enrichment, and enclosure construction.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
There are so many challenges when it comes to building a small company and challenges for us were more about public perception.
There are groups of people who are against pet keeping in general and more so when it comes to exotics. There were many sending emails, calling us on the phone, and stopping by trying to figure out how we run our programs or what type of animals we house. Especially with the word “crazy” in our title.
Then at one time, there was a small group of people who made it a mission to have us closed down by the county zoning department. Fast forward to today and we are now proud contracted partners with Lake County and have grown a wonderful professional relationship and together we make a huge difference to people and critters.
Overall, most of our goals and challenges come with learning curves because we are self-taught.
As you know, we’re big fans of Crazy Critters Inc.. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Ken and I have been licensed by the state to work with animals since 2001. Owning and operating Crazy Critters and the Crazy Plants Nursery is the coolest job in the world.
Spending my day with amazing species of animals found from around the world is a real blessing and very few days are stressful. I do not think a single day goes by that I am not working on helping a needy pet find a good home.
Some so many humans experience life-changing events and need the placement of an animal so when I help a critter, I am also helping a person in need. We meet people who face health issues, financial losses, and those going through transitions in life.
Historically speaking, people have released their pets into our natural environment “in hopes” of seeing the pet have a better life. This heartbreaking event is easily avoided when there are organizations that are easy to access and can help.
Additionally, these animals see much less neglect or abuse when a pet keeper can properly place an animal without judgment. Over the years, we see far less capturing of our native species with far fewer invasives in Florida’s environment for many reasons with education being a major factor. Our motto #CrazyPlantsForCrazyCritters evolved into a fun reminder that when we work together, we can make a difference and improve the future for the next generation.
We invite the community to The Crazy Plants Nursery at 22919 County Road 44a in Eustis because 100% of the proceeds go directly to vetting, diet, enrichment, and enclosure construction. We are open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 to 2 unless there are severe storms in the area.
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
I am most proud that Ken and I built a self-sustainable facility with zero debt using passion and physical drive.
Over time, we have built incredible friendships that help us grow.
The support from our community has built the confidence to do more because, with their help, we accomplish our goals.
Pricing:
- $100 facility tour for a group of up to four people.
- $125 facility tour for a group of four to six people.
- $150 facility tour for a group of six to eight people.
- Plant prices average $5 to $100
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.crazycrittersinc.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crazy_critters_inc/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CrazyCrittersInc
- Twitter: https://x.com/CrazyCrittersFL
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@CrazyCrittersInc
- Other: https://www.facebook.com/CrazyPlantsNursery
Image Credits
Jason Cross Photography
