A Christmas tree is the heart and center of people’s homes during this season.
It’s one activity that the entire family can bond and spend time together – from choosing and buying the tree to decorating it.
This is one thing that Tom Dull had in mind that worked for their business. The Dull family in Indiana had a huge farm but had no idea what to do.
Enter Christmas trees.
They planted crops that didn’t seem to thrive well. Until they thought of planting different trees that people could use in their homes as live Christmas trees.
That was the start of a great family business.
Dull’s Tree Farm is still thriving!
What started as a small business aimed to send their children to college has become a go-to seasonal location in their community for 14 years now.
Yes, their kids finished college without any debt, and the business was still booming.
They saw potential and kept going.
Throughout the 14 years, they came up with numerous ideas on attracting more people.
They created the Wreath Barn to create and customize wreaths for people. They also have a log house where families can relax and enjoy good food.
But the one thing that people loved and kept coming back to was their little helpers.
Newfoundland Dogs.
The idea came from one of their community members with a pet rescue organization.
South Central Newfoundland Rescue Co-Founder, Virginia Davis, told Tom that they could use their Newfoundland Dogs on their farm and help them raise funds for their organization.
This breed loves draft work.
When it comes to carting around trees, boy do they love it!
Families flock to Dull’s Tree Farm not only to buy their tree for the year but enjoy the scene of these lovely dogs pulling the tree to their car.
Tips are encouraged as their donation for the organization; treats and belly rubs are great tips, too!
A wholesome Christmas experience
Bringing in the Newfies created a holistic experience hitting so many goals.
Opening doors to forever homes
Aside from raising funds, this also brought awareness to the community and opened an opportunity for adoption.
This is why Tom and his family never hesitated to welcome South Central Newfoundland Rescue and their beloved Newfies in their tree farm.
The Newfies have the time of their lives while on the farm.
Some dogs pull the trees and love all the attention they get. Those dogs who are too young or too old to pull a sled also have a role as people-greeters.
They entertain the guests and, since they are like big floofy bears, they love all the snuggles they get.
The dull family is a community staple.
Tom and his family realized the impact their farm had on the community.
They recognized all the good things it offered and how it brought their community closer.
According to Tom, it’s all about giving back to the community who supported them throughout those years when they were still starting.
He wanted to continue doing this for as long as it keeps supporting other causes in their community. And when we come to think of it, that’s what Christmas is all about.
See the Newfies in action in the video below!
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