DAWSONVILLE, Ga - A popular animal rescue park has been evicted from its home of ten years, and the owner is worried he doesn't have the money to move.
The Amicalola Deer Park has been given until November 11 to vacate property in Dawson County near Amicalola Falls. Owner Sean Smith is scrambling to remove fences, load up his animals, and go.
He has no idea what will happen if he doesn't make the deadline.
"I've heard there's a possibility they would lock us out," said Smith. "It would stop us from caring for the animals and jeopardize their lives."
The Amicalola Deer Park is home to approximately 120 animals including exotic deer, llama, and horses. The animals are all rescued from injury, abuse or neglect.
The owner of the property passed away earlier this year. The new owners have indicated they have new plans for the land, and gave Smith 120 days to move his animals out.
Smith says he spent half of that time finding a new home. Now that he has a place to go, his non-profit will have to hire the right people to move the animals without stress or injury.
Smith says he doesn't have the money to do it.
Some people have provided much needed donations. A special needs child who has visited the park in the past is so concerned, he raised $100.
The Deer Park will need a lot more than that. Smith says as much as $20,000 is needed to make the move and set up and the new location. At a time when he's usually preparing for holiday events that draws the bulk of his visitors and donations, he's busy removing fences.
"We raise money to provide food for these guys to last through the winter," said Smith. "At this point, I don't see it happening."
The park has both a web site and a Facebook page where they are asking for donations and volunteers to help with the move.