Volunteers at Big Cat Rescue Help Exotic Cats

Big Cat Rescue in Tampa, Florida is one of the largest big cat sanctuaries in existence. It was founded in 1992 by Carol Baskin and is accredited by the USDA and the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries. Carol Baskin and her husband are real estate investors, and the facility is housed on a 45 acre tract of land they acquired in a foreclosure. Big Cat Rescue is a non-profit organization that relies solely on donations and volunteers to fund its operations. A three month internship is offered to prepare volunteers who would like to assist with the care of the big cats. Their volunteer workforce includes nearly 100 staff members.

The sanctuary began by accident when Baskin rescued fifty six bobcat and lynx kittens from a fur farm. She became known for accepting unwanted cats and began to dedicate much of her time to caring for them. Over the years, large outdoor enclosures have been built to house the cats in a natural environment amidst the wooded property with a lake. Big Cat rescue is currently home to more than 100 tigers, bobcats, lynx, leopards, cougars, lions and other exotic cats. Many of the cats are abandoned pets or have been rescued from fur farms, circuses or roadside zoos. A large number come to the facility abused or neglected.

The goal of the sanctuary is two-fold. They provide care and a safe environment for the cats to live out their lives. The cats receive food, sanitary living conditions, toys and medical care. They also educate the public about concerns that arise for exotic cats held in captivity as well as dangers they face in the wild. Big Cat Rescue is committed to changing laws governing ownership and trade of exotic cats. They do not breed, buy, sell or trade the cats.

Big Cat Rescue recently added a rotation enclosure that includes a pond, den, platforms and toys for the exotic residents. It was designed to be a vacation from their permanent enclosures. A Bengal tiger assisted with the ribbon cutting ceremony. Big Cat Rescue offers a variety of tours including private tours, feeding tours and night tours. They also host special events and educational programs. The sanctuary is known for holding fundraiser events for exotic animals not in the care of their facility. Big Cat Rescue’s recent Tampa March for Lions event raised $7000.00 for continued efforts to ban lion hunting.