Big Cat Rescue provides an awesome service for big cats that, sadly, is more necessary now than ever. Big cats deserve to live in the wild, but there are so many in the hands of private citizens that are abused and neglected. BCR helps these animals and gives them a home for the rest of their lives, complete with plenty of food, enrichment, vet care, and love. BCR also plays an important role in advocacy for big cats, trying to help them in all areas. The world would be a much worse place without the staff and volunteers at Big Cat Rescue. I visited them in November 2014, and I wish I lived closer so I could visit over and over. To see these amazing animals is a rare treat, and to see them healthy and happy after what many of them have been through is nothing short of a miracle.
After following their videos and going on their website, I had a chance to visit their facility in person back in 2019.
Being their supporter and s watching their work and learning what BCR does was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.
I was completely behind their efforts to get the much needed Big Cat Public Safety Act passed and made many calls to my elected officials for the amazing animals they want to protect from harm and being used for profit. I can’t even explain the joy I felt when that bill passed!
I have learned so much from Big Cat Rescue and how much love they have for their work. I will always celebrate every step BCR makes and I am proud to support them!
I’ve been three times in the last few years and I felt in awe of how much the staff and volunteers do for the beautiful cats. They have beautiful big enclosures with their own pools. They get special enrichment on holidays or their birthdays . They have an excellent vet and a small animal hospital right on the premises . They let you see the animals but you are never allowed to touch them they give their animals respect and they are never forced to take pictures with people. They also can hide in their enclosures if they don’t want to be seen. The animals that live there have a better life than most humans when they are too old
Big Cat Rescue is such a compassionate sanctuary! They have rehabbed and released 50 injured Florida bobcats. Plus they now are helping a Florida bobcat suspected of having FLM. Amazing sanctuary!
I have learned so much valuable information about big cats since I’ve been a sponsor of Big Cat Rescue. This organization has given hundreds of cats a relief from pain and suffering for the rest of their lives. Also a life of respect for who and what they are. I applaud BCR for a job well done.
I’ve been a fan and supporter of Big Cat Rescue for nearly ten years. I’ve donated thousands Of dollars and hundreds of hours helping spread their mission. BCR is fully accredited and highly rated for the way they treat their animals and run their non-profit. Many others emulate them. Having played a huge role in passing legislation to protect captive big cats, BCR is now turning their steely eyed focus on helping to save these animals from extinction in the wild. I’ve no doubt they will be as successful in this endeavor as in the previous.
Big Cat Rescue is absolutely the best! The volunteers and staff work hard and tirelessly to take care of the cats. Carole, her husband and all the loving workers have done a wonderful job getting the Big Cat Safety Act passed. Fantastic bunch of people.
I've been a fan of Big Cat rescue for years and think they are the best sanctuary. Their staff and volunteers care for the cats both physically and emotionally by feeding them the best raw meat diets, keeping them amused by providing fun things in their enclosures to keep them from getting bored. The workers keep detailed information on the cats which are observed daily for for possible illness. When they suspect there is a medical issue they contact their vet to make arrangements to bring the cats to their on site hospital where the vet will prescribe medicines or surgery if needed. All this takes place in a lovely setting by cheerful staff and volunteers
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Big Cat Rescue is a fully accredited sanctuary in Tampa, Florida who takes in injured, abandoned, mistreated or malnourished big cats from all over the U.S. and foreign countries to provide them with a home, fresh food, regular on site vet care in their on site fully functioning hospital. The care of the cats is done by volunteers who are fully trained to do so, The top level keepers conduct ope-rant conditioning which helps keepers assess the cats condition on a regular basis. A group of volunteers create fun things to entertain the cats to keep them from becoming bored. There is nothing that enriches the cat's life that is not provided by everyone at Big Cat Rescue. This is not a temporary home for the cats, they are there for life. I can think of no better sanctuary for these wild cats than Big Cat Rescue!
Love BCR! The cats look happy and are treated with RESPECT. No touch! They are fed well and get special treats. Just love sponsoring a cat and enjoy watching all the “lives” they do to keep you in the know! Gonna miss them but will follow the cats to Turpentine Creek! I LOVE them ALL!
The good people at Big Cat Rescue not only take excellent care of the animals, they also educate people about big cats. They work tirelessly to rescue injured bobcats, orphaned cubs, and big cats that have been mistreated or neglected. These cats need constant care!
Great organization who cares for big cats. Their dedication is unmatched and they keep their followers in the loop about what is going on at the sanctuary by means of lives and many cameras around the property where you can watch live.
Big Cat Rescue is an amazing organization. For 30 years, they have provided refuge to abused and abandoned big cats, giving them the love and care they deserve. They've also done a lot for in-situ conservation projects, saving big cats not just in captivity but also in the wild where they belong. I've been honored to support them all these years.
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Big Cat Rescue is an amazing accredited sanctuary! Since 1992 they have taken amazing care of the cats they rescue, whether it be a tiger or a serval from captivity or a wild Florida bobcat in need of rehabilitation for release back to the wild. The cats live in huge, natural cages with plenty of enrichment to alleviate boredom. They are given food of the utmost quality everyday, and the best veterinary care possible. It is truly the best place those cats could live out their lives of peace and tranquillity.
Amazing organization caring for the cats, helping end the trade and stop the abuse of big cats in the US by being one of the leading organizations in getting the Big Cat Public Safety Act passed in December 2022! Now their focus soon moves to saving cats in the wild. Can’t say enough wonderful things about the care the cats receive daily and those who care for them as well as the mission of the sanctuary.
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Watching all the webcams of the cats live 24/7 is wonderful since the sanctuary is closed to the general public.
The cats receive great care 365 days a year and so much work is being done to pass the Big Cat Public Safety Act so no more big cats have to live their lives in cages as the first step to seeing all big cats living free in the wild!
Big Cat Rescue helped my save a Lion 7 years ago. Since then, I have been to Big Cat Rescue numerous times. Their cats are very happy and have bonds with their keepers. Their enclosures are massive! They give quality food to the cats, and provide enrichment to keep the cats happy. They tell the stories of the cat’s histories, so you can learn how the cats evolve since their rescue. They are a true sanctuary. I love that they are trying to change laws to stop roadside zoos, and the private possession of cats. They get people involved by going to bigcatact.com, so that we have a voice for the voiceless. I highly recommend this GFAS sanctuary!
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Big Cat Rescue is an amazing place. How lucky are the folks in Florida to have a GFAS accredited ( Global Federation of Animal Sanctuary’s) sanctuary right here? Their dedication to the animals is extraordinary!
Big cat rescues is a 5 star it help animals give the forever home and the let the be animals wild animals Hands off they have the vet. The y give the animals live with out touching them
Hands off Santuary
Big Cat Rescue is totally transparent and open to answer any and all questions regarding the sanctuary and how it is run. Everyone involved with this non-profit goes above and beyond for the animals in their care every day and keeps the public well informed with the everyday ongoings at the sanctuary. The cats are very well taken care of as all their needs are met and live in large well kept enclosures designed to meet the specific cat's needs and comfort. Big Cat Rescue provides a great deal of educational material regarding the cats in their care in addition to those in the wild. Big Cat Rescue also runs an excellent rehab program for native Florida bobcats who are injured, orphaned, etc. with much success. I have followed, supported and toured Big Cat Rescue for 10 yrs now and haven't any issues or complaints with them in all this time. In addition I've also recommended Big Cat Rescue as an excellent nonprofit to support to many others over the 10 yrs.
catskillmountainwoman29
I started as just another tour guest enjoying the life BCR offers cats who have no choice but to be captive. I’m now a proud volunteer keeper who strives to give the same comfort and care I witnessed all those years ago. Big Cat spares no expensive on providing the absolute BEST raw meat diet, daily enrichment opportunities and top notch veterinary care to each and every cat on property. The bobcat rehab program is so great that the FWC now works alongside BCR with the releasable cats fitting them with gps collars to help gather invaluable information. I couldn’t be prouder to help with the care of these cats until we get the BCPSA passed.
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Big Cat Rescue is the leader in getting the Big Cat Act bill passed so that we can end the abuse of ALL cats!
They rescue and rehabilitate injured and abused cats providing them a lovely retirement home.
Help stop the abuse and private ownership of big cats by going to BigCatAct.com
BCR is a great sanctuary. It's run by caring people. They take great care of the wild cats. In addition, they rehabilitate injured or/ or orphaned bobkitten and release them into the wild. Each cat is put on the diet that meets that particular cat's needs. Regular check ups by the vet and medical procedures are done if necessary. BCR also educates the public about the wild cat's ownership. Why owning a wild cat is a terrible life for that cat and a human. They also educate the public about breeding wild cats, why it's not a conservation. They don't breed wild cats, unlike some pseudo sanctuaries do. I can go on forever. BCR is a wonderful place for wild cats' forever home.
The love and care they provide to animals in their care is top notch. The bobcat rehab program is spectacular. They take in sick and injured native bobcats and rehabilitate them then release them to live wild again. The resident animals are all happy and extremely well cared for. The staff follow strict protocol to respect the animals and keep everyone safe by not touching them. Big Cat Rescue is one of the best big cat sanctuaries in the United States.
BCR treats all their rescues with dignity and respect. They attend to all their medical needs and provide enrichment in a natural environment. The cats are well fed with the types of food they’d eat in the wild. There is no breeding or petting or human contact. And they will literally drive across the country to rescue a cat in need or fund the transport of a big cat in another country. BCR is my favorite charity.
They do their very best to keep all the cats occupied with enrichment and feed and water, also being in Florida they have with air conditioners for the cats that are used to the cooler climates. Their Rehab release bobcat program does help the cats to go free once the bobcat (if injured) goes free they do monitor it. Some of the bobcats have this disease which is dangerous in the wild so one of the bobcats might have it if the do they will keep a monitor and help the Federal wildlife to understand what it is so if it becomes a bad thing they will find other cats to stop this disease from getting to the others. I know by watching their videos and reading their notes on animals I got a better understanding and know a bobcat from a regular one now thanks to Big cat rescue. I would be honored to work for them even, that's how strongly I believe they are working to keep the cats safe, happy and watching them day and night.
I have been following Big Cat Rescue for a few years and am always impressed with their wonderful, thoughtful care of the cats. They follow strict safety procedures and are very open in their handling of the cats and the work going on in the sanctuary.
Big cat rescue goes above and beyond to care for their Cats I've have visited and will go back . It's because of big cat rescue a lot of these road side zoos that mistreat their animals are becoming almost non eexistent. Big cat rescue deserves this .
They are very transparent about the day to operations of the sanctuary. They are GFAS accredited, so the don't buy, sell, trade, touch, or breed the animals.
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BCR , the super heroes for big and small cats. Most compassionate dedicated people who go above and beyond to give these majestic cats the second chance of happy and safe life. Thank you for all you do
I am a supporter of Big cat rescue, they do fantastic work with the cats. They are well cared for, get the respect they deserve by wonderful staff & have lovely homes to roam.
This is one of the few non-profits that use all the money donated goes to the big cats in their care. not to "administrative fees". They are one In a million!
Big Cat Rescue is an amazing organization that I have been supporting for almost 3 years. Their philosophy is always what it best for the cats. Their advocacy for the Big Cat Safety Act is critically important. I love their transparency about everything!
Amazing place! The care and love provided to these beautiful animals is shown in everything they do. I was lucky enough to visit several years ago and will never forget the way BCR worked to give them the love and respect they so deserve. Thank you all for all you do and for providing them a safe place to live out their lives.
I was having a tough time in my life when an article of BCR showed up in my Facebook feed. Looking at the site, and videos and reading the wealth of information about the cats saved me. I am forever grateful and full of admiration for BCR.
Big Cat Rescue gives the best care possible to their feline residents. They give them great veternarian care as needed and provide enrichment of many kinds. They show video tours nearly every day on Facebook where you can see the cats and the condition of each one's enclosure. They provide transparency in their vet care with almost every medical procedure shown live via Facebook and other social media sites. They are a GFAS accredited sanctuary which is the highest level of the care of the cats. Big Cat Rescue also promotes the conservation of the habitats from which many of these are from. They also work to promote legislation that will prevent private owndership and abuse of exotic cats with the hope that these cats will live only in their original habitats where they belong.
Everyone at BCR cares very deeply about the cats under their care. Careful attention to the mental and physical health of all of the animals. This is clearly demonstrate by the age of their cats. Many live twice as long as they do in the wild, in zoos and under the care of "owners" that shouldn't be.
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They tell it like it is and yet show compassion for the animals in their care. They have opened my eyes to what is really happening with "wild" animals in individual's care. Even with the need to keep their facility closed due to Covid 19, they are trying to help other facilities such as their effort on International Tiger Day.
They post videos of almost every aspect of their property. For those of you who think they "cages" are too small, watch how they sometimes have to spend five or ten minutes walking around them to "find" a particular animal.
BCR is all for the cats. I love how they rehab bobcats that have problems. Too bad all cats can't be released back into the wild, but they can't after living their lives domestically. They wouldn't survive. I love BCR.
I have followed and supported Big Cat Rescue for years now. They are totally dedicated to giving the cats in their care the best possible lives. A true Sanctuary, BCR's cats are never touched, are never made to perform for humans, are never allowed to suffer, and are never bred, sold, or given away. Each cat has a spacious catitat with multiple shelters, green grass, trees and shrubbery, feeding lockout areas with fresh, clean water, specialized veterinarian care, plus appropriate toys and enrichment. BCR has a very small paid staff, with a large volunteer and intern contingent who provide all cat care. All donations to BCR are used solely to support the cats. BCR is actively pursuing the end of private ownership of big cats - and the related abuse and exploitation of big cats by privately owned, abusive private zoos and cub-petting businesses - through The Big Cat Safety Act, a bill gathering support in both the House and Senate. Please check out BCR for yourself and contact your Senators and Representatives to co- sponsor and champion The Big Cat Safety Act!
Big Cat Rescue, Corp. is like a family. Staff and volunteers and interns all give 100% in any situation, routine or extreme. From Carole and Howard Baskin advocating for safety and sanctuary for the big cats who are exploited in circuses and petting for profit schemes, to the loyal, caring staff and volunteers who literally go the extra "miles" anywhere a wild cat needs rescued. Big or small, wild or former surrendered pets, all cats are fully followed by a veterinarian at a top notch hospital, treated for any issues, from complicated compound fractures where plates, pins and screws are expertly placed, to medicating arthritis and other degenerative diseases in older cats at BCR. Rescues of Bobcat kittens who are found estranged from their parents in crisis, with life threatening conditions and malnourishment etc. with all steps taken to return them to the wild. When a cat is unable to be returned to it's territory, the cat has a five-star good place to grow old with plenty of roomy enclosures, a vacation-rotation, enrichment and operant conditioning so that skilled keepers can move cats from one enclosure to another or be sedated for veterinary purposes. These cats are beloved treasures and BCR is the VERY BEST PLACE TO BE if a cat cannot be released or returned to it's natural habitat.
I started following Big Cat Rescue 6 years ago. I saw a video of a beautiful rescued circus tiger taking his first footsteps onto grass and it changed my life. I began paying attention to all that the keepers and staff said and could not believe the abuse these majestic big cats suffer. BCR is a beautiful property that gives formally abused cats a safe sanctuary. It's 67 acres give them huge enclosures where they experience the closest thing there is to freedom, as they will never be free. I am thankful everyday for what BCR does and grateful to be able to donate to this 501c3. I believe that BCR and their staff will change the world for these innocent beings who deserve to be with their families in their native lands.
Big Cat Rescue, although no longer opened to the public, still ensures the public can see the cats. They have manned and unmanned cameras so we are able to watch many of them. The cats are very well taken care of. Big Cat Rescue is accredited by the Global federation of Animal Sanctuaries. They don't buy, sell, breed, touch(except medical exams when they are sedated)or trade the cats.
I have been following Big Cat Rescue on line for a few years now. I am most impressed with their educational information they provide regarding the abuse of tigers in this country and the torture some endure worldwide. There was a lot I never knew or imagined. It is sad that people can own these exotic cats as pets.
I enjoy the keeper lives and the special things they do for all the residents in their care. I am grateful for all the questions they answered. I am a big supporter of the big cat safety act because of all that I learned through this non profit and I educate others as best I can because of all that I have learned by following them. Also, what a fantastic bobcat rehab they have! Completely impressed with this organization and ask my friends to follow and support them. They are 100% there for the well-being of the cats, and other orphaned wild life. The give the best vet care, enrichment and total care of these precious cats that unfortunately can never run free. But they do have the most impressive natural enclosures and provide these magnificent animals the best life they can live.
I had visited Big Cat Rescue in the past back in 2012. I followed them for a few years prior, but since that visit, I really got hooked once I saw the facility. The grounds are beautiful and well kept but to see the big cats living there was amazing. Their enclosures are spacious and lush with greenery. For those that like water, they lavish in pools or their own lakes. They get the best food and veterinary care. I can't wait to return one day.
My family and I had the pleasure of visiting big cat rescue in person back in 2018. The staff and volunteers are extremely open and welcoming, however they express the seriousness of the mission for a big cat rescue which is basically two get to the point where rescues such as these are no longer needed, which they hope to accomplish via laws and legislation banning private ownership of big cats
Through the pandemic the team was forced to take their teachings virtual, and they’ve done a wonderful job with that through their Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube channels. They have been able to reach a much broader, global audience using these avenues and have been able to raise funds so that the loss of revenue from tours did not impact the health and safety of the animals or the workers and volunteers.
They take great pride in teaching and educating and creating a better life for the cats under their care than they would’ve had elsewhere. This group is an awesome force for being the voice of big cats in North America, and globally.
They rescue big cats that have been used in the pay to play industry and have an amazing bobcat rehab program helping native Florida bobcats return to living wild and free once they have been returned to good health!
So Educational you learn the real truth about what these babies go thru!Very Sad but when you are Educated your mindset is you need to help and not be part of the problem for these babies but a solution on how to make a greater change to save them!! the most beautiful ppl at BCR Lots of Love for the Rescues!!
I’ve been following BCR on Facebook for years. I love how they are so loving and caring for these big cats. I’ve seen the caregivers devotion to each and every one of these beautiful animals. I’ve sadly seen what kind of shape some of these stunning creatures are in when they arrive at the sanctuary. I’ve encouraged everyone I know to support BCR in any way they can. I’ve purchased gifts for my family from their gift shop and discovered them all to be top notch quality. I don’t know what else to say, except that I support them financially as much as I can.
This is an absolutely amazing organization. The work and dedication that the staff and volunteers put in to care for the cats is truly a labor of love. What a blessing they are to provide a sanctuary for all that have been fortunate enough to spend their lives here. #BCR
This rescue does not only provide a sanctuary of no breed, no selling, no touching or no trading but they are working hard to put an end to cub petting and private ownership of cats by being in the forefront of the Big Cat Safety Act in Washington DC. BCR is ready to put themselves out of business of being a sanctuary or the sake of the cats but continue to help the cats in the wild world wide. I follow this sanctuary because the commitment to the cats and the cats always come first. I am monthly donor and support many of their fund raisers. BCR is very transparent to the supporters. The owner, staff and volunteers care and love these cats.
I love that this rescue cares for and respects these cats. They are fed, enriched, and any medical needed is taken care of. They spare no expense for the cats.
I love this non profit for not only their outstanding care for the cats but their work to stop breading wild cats for life in cages. ALL thr money goes for care of the animals and you can watch their operations 24×7 on live cams.
I am an elderly person who is confined to my apartment, first because of COVID, now because I’m in treatment for leukemia. Being able to watch the cats at Big Cat Rescue helps me make it thru the day. The keepers, staff, and volunteers are wonderful and really love those cats. I love keeping up on Manny as I am from Omaha and visited him every weekend at the Henry Doorly Zoo. Thank you BCR for all you do for the cats and sharing them with us.
I support big cat rescue 100% because of the amazing care and love that they give to these cats that have been abused so badly and/or abandoned. But also because of how vehemently they work to stop the cub petting trade and what efforts they make for more and more people to be aware of the preciousness and sacredness of these amazing animals
I have visited several times and follow them on social media. They take excellent care of the cats and you can tell how much they love what they do.
I love the fact that BCR rescues big and small cat alike from terrible situation. They care for them tt and give the cats a secure forever home. I had a chance to visit BCR a couple years ago, I loved how they (staff) told their indivial stories about the cats. Go BCR!
Big Cat Rescue is not only a rescue but also an Educator. I have learned so much about why zoos are not conservationists. When they breed, they are not breeding to save a species but breeding the species to a life of captivity, No matter how big a cage is, it’s still a cage! I don’t want to look at these beautiful animals caged instead running free the way they were meant to!
This is one of the most beautiful sanctuaries I have ever seen. The work that Carole has done (with her amazing volunteers in outstanding). Carole does more than run a sanctuary as she advocates every day to stop the need for a sanctuary. the work she has done with ADI is also amazing.
The care and love these animals receive is second to none. They shouldn't be in captivity,but because they have to be,they live their best life there.
This is truly a great rescue facility. The staff is the most loving towards all the animals they care for...of course, as following the Sanctuary creed. (Touching not allowed). Since COVID, they have gone above and beyond keeping their large following up to date on the cats, big & small. Their bobcat rehab program is the best in the Nation. Their education about these magnificent animals has made me and my family, feel differently. These wonderful cats are not pets and deserve to be free.
Despite not being able to visit any longer, I cannot tell you how proud I am of the work being done at Big Cat Rescue. They are selfless and loving people who give their time freely to take care of abused and neglected animals while also rehabbing local bobcats to go back out in the wild. I strongly support their work getting the Big Cat Public Safety Act passed. I wish they would open tours back, can’t wait to go again.
I support BCR because of their dedication to the cats they provide for and all they do to educate people in a multitude of ways. I have learned SOOOO much from them. I am proud to support them!!!
This is an awesome legitimate nonprofit that I’ve been supporting and following for several years. Love them!!
I donate to Big Cat Rescue (BCR). I am confident in donating to BCR because all donations go to the care of the cats. I regularly watch live videos of the cats. The cats are well fed, happy, are provided toys, treats, and other enrichment items. The large enclosures have ponds, trees, grasses, shelters, etc. BCR volunteers and staff members obviously love the cats and provide them with superior emotional and physical care.
Big 8g Cat Rescue is the top Sancuary in the world
I am blessed that I live less than a mile from the Sancuary. The thrill we occasionally heard from a lion roaring or a tiger chuffing cannot be beat
It is a great place for sure
This is an amazing Nonprofit Rescue Sanctuary. I have followed it for a long time now and I am very impressed with what they are doing. They take excellent care of the Cats they already have, while trying to stop the root course of the abuse. All money goes to the care of the Cats. I find them to be extremely transparent in everything they do.
Big Cat Rescue educates on the wrong doings that are happening with Big Cats. They are actively trying to make life better for all big cats in the United States. They truly deeply care and make people like me care.
I discovered Big Cat Rescue in 2020. Big Cat Rescue works hard to give dozens of wild cats a forever home and rehabilitate Florida bobcats to be released into the wild. Their online videos and website are educational and entertaining. They do not breed, trade, buy, breed or touch the cats. All donations go to supporting the cat's care. Their support of the Big Cat Safety Act will change the future of wild cats in America once it is enacted by Congress.
All volunteers and keepers are great to these cats. They are so lucky to grow old with such dignity and respect. They deserve to be recognized for the wonderful work they do.
They do it all, exactly as they say. They don't touch, sell or breed wild cats. The staff know the personality of each cat, which is great when they need vet care. They've got a fully functional veterinary hospital with skilled vets. Every dime brought in for the cats goes to the cats. All grounds people are volunteers and happy to do so!
A dedicated, caring, kind sanctuary for all their residents. Their mission statement speaks for itself. To put themselves out of business by taking measures so that sanctuaries are no longer needed. Wild animals need to be in the wild. Nothing more to say
This charity is amazing!!! They care so much about theses animals and takes the best care of them. I’m so glad to be a donor to this amazing charity.
This sanctuary is the best! They care for each individual animal and cater to their needs. The vet care is beyond amazing and the love they give to let these beautiful innocent animals to be free at heart is unmatched anywhere.
The care and compassion they show to the BIG CATS is awesome. They are the caregivers #1 priority 365 days a year. This is the only charity I give to right now.
Big Cat Rescue is the most educational animal rescue I’ve ever encountered. I have leaned so much from watching their Q&A walkabouts with Brittany and Carole. They are a GFAS (Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries) which means that they do not buy, sell, trade, breed or touch any of their animals. They respect the cats and care for them by providing spacious cages with natural foliage. Their cats have been rescued from the circus, other animal organizations that closed down, from private owners, or confiscated by their state, etc. In addition to their daily breakfast, they provide the cats with bloodsicles or tunasiciles every day as a way to provide the cats with daily enrichment and increase their water intake. They also provide seasonal enrichment such as watermelons, pumpkins, turkeys, and Christmas trees. They are determined to get the Big Cat Public Safety Act passed which would prohibit cub petting — the number one force behind the breeding industry of big cats. Their staff and volunteers are incredibly knowledgeable and caring. I am a huge fan of Big Cat Rescue and am so proud to call myself a supporter.
I've been following Big Cat Rescue for the past few years and am always impressed with their level of dedication, expertise and care for the cats, as well as their volunteers and donors. The work they do not only with the rescued animals, but with rehabilitating and releasing animals when allowed, is stellar. They are transparent in their procedures and decisions and always welcome questions.
The workers and volunteers are so caring and compassionate. They always look out for the big cats and make sure they are put first. The vet staff is amazing and equally compassionate. This is a non profit that I will continue to follow and support. The owner and COO are the best. Love Big Cat Rescue.
I live in Tampa and used to go every couple of years. .This sanctuary takes such good care of the Cats big and small. They have such great outdoor environments for the cats. Their rehab program for injured and abandoned bob cats is the best.
Wonderful transparent non profit who puts every cent they can in helping provide the best life they are able to for wild cats.
They give all the big cats in their rescue the best care possible and have helped to shutdown as much of the cub petting as they can due to the fact that it causes immeasurable damage to the animals involved
I am a monthly supporter and it is so rewarding! I love Big Cat Rescue and all the staff. They take excellent care of the resident cats and rescue those in need. I am physically disabled and BCR has brought joy back into my life. I spend several hours a day watching their YouTube channel and watching the cats on their live cameras. They have given me something to look forward to every day. Not only do they save big cats, they save people like me as well. Everyone at Big Cat Rescue works so hard to make sure these cats can have the best life possible for the rest of their lives even though they have to be in cages. They also rescue and rehabilitate native bobcats so they can be released back into the wild. They also provide education as to why these cats shouldn't be pets or kept in cages. I have learned so much from them. I'm getting married in May and in lieu of gifts we are asking guests to donate to Big Cat Rescue. They do such wonderful things there.
Big Cat Rescue is the only non profit who's goal is to put itself out of business by ending the private ownership of big cats , that always results in thier having to be rescued. There is no other sanctuary in the country that comes close to the wonderful home BCR gives these wonderful creatures.
Thoughtful caring knowledgeable staff volunteers. Big Cats,squirrels,ducks etc. All wildlife treated with the utmost care and respect
They are very transparent on what specific project our donations go to. They are educational and take the time to teach folks about their mission. They are also working to not only give the cats a better home but they are working to change the laws to protect the cats in the long term.
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I am so proud to be a part of the extended BCR family!!! When I stumbled on a random BCR FB video, I was intrigued. When I started learning about the cats and their individual personalities, I was smitten! When I learned more about BCRs high standards of care and their mission to put themselves out of business through education and legislation, I was impressed! When I visited in 2019, I got to see everything in action for myself. The property is amazing, the volunteers are proud and most importantly the cats are so very well cared for!!!
Big cat rescue is not only 5 stars. I would give it 500 stars for the best non-profit animal rescue sanctuary in the US! I have followed them for nearly 10 years and have researched them deeply. Their constant hard work and dedication to the wild cats in need is beyond extraordinary! I was blessed to visit in 2020 before they had to close for precaution of COVID-19 and it was a serene, professional and natural environment. The cages are huge and clean. I was blown away!
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Love Big Cat Rescue so much! Their staff and volunteers are incredible. The care and respect that they show these magnificent cats is the best I’ve seen. I’ve learned so much from them and will continue to support their efforts.
A great bunch of people dedicated to protect and help wild cats.
They do it with love and care and nothing seems to be too much trouble in the way they look after the cats.
For these reasons they deserve to be at the top of the non profits.
Big Cat Rescue does an amazing job rescuing big cats from tragic and abusive situations and facilities.
I have visited Big Cat Rescue a few few times before covid. The care they give their cats is amazing. They truly love the cats and it shows in how well kept and clean the facility it and how quickly they respond when a cat needs medical care. The staff and volunteers are really a blessing. You will not find more caring and compassionate people
Love BCR and the work they do there and their love for all the animals that pass through their doors. I had the privilege to visit there several years ago and can't wait till they can open back up for visitors.
I love being able to support them through Amazon Smiles program!
Totally transparent on their decisions and operations, with 24/7 cameras and nearly daily live online walkabouts, and volunteers who really love the animals (cats and others). The cats have multiple bubbles of at least 1200 sq feet each, they get the best meals and vet care, resulting in multiple cats reaching over 20 years of age. As a genuine sanctuary, they are GFAS accredited and do not buy, sell, trade, breed or touch the cats. Before Covid, you could visit them (as I did and found a spot of quiet paradise). Now I follow them online, which is really addictive.
These caretakers are the most loving and caring group of people. Taking care of these cats by putting their needs first. Such respect they have for the cats. This is an amazing place for a cat to live it's final years before crossing the Rainbow Bridge.
I am a regular donor to Big Cat Rescue. Their cause is important for the cats they rescue and their advocacy for the end of the private ownership of big cats.
This sanctuary gives the animals in it's care everything they need or could want. They make sure they eat even if it means going back several times. All medical issues are immediately taken care of. They provide them with all kinds of enrichment.
Big Cat Rescue is one of the finest and caring sanctuaries in the USA. On my visit, my first impression was how beautiful and peaceful it was with all the trees and greenery. The cats are well loved and healthy. If I had the means, I would like to visit BCR again(when they open back up). God bless Big Cat Rescue.
Beautiful cats. The volunteers and staff at Big Cat Rescue that take care of these precious cats are amazing. These cats are a result of cub petting and people thinking these wild animals could be pets.
Big cat rescue is amazing they rehabilitate native Florida bobcats they rehabilitate squirrels and ducks they are advocates in stopping the pet trade industry. It is an amazing facility with two hospitals on site and an amazing staff and volunteer community. They are very open and always have cameras running 24/7 that you can watch live. They help cats in the wild and they are always educating anyone who is willing to listen.
Takes great care of their cats, cameras to show a lot of the cats - all day, everyday, rehab & release for native bobcats, retirement for rescued cats, GFAS accredited
Started watching when Max, Simba, and Kimba tigers were brought home to BCR. Been pleased with all that they do for the cats.
Big Cat Rescue is an amazing sanctuary that goes above and beyond for the care and rescue of big cats, bobcats, sometimes domestic cats, squirrels and even recently a mallard duck. Their priority is giving their top care to ensure their residents have the best they can possibly have.
BCR provides world class care to big and exotic cats rescued from private ownership, roadside zoos, circuses and other abusive situations. The are a GFAS accredited sanctuary and do not buy, sell, trade, breed or touch their cats. The dedication of all the staff and volunteers at BCR is second to none - they provide the cats with amazing care, large natural enclosures, top quality diets and tons of enrichment, all while working to end the abusive cub petting and private ownership of big cats so that one day they can put themselves out of business.
Big Vat Rescue presides a great hone for exotic cats, they give them great medical care and food. The people who volunteer there do it for the love of the cats. I have been their a couple of times and they are nice people.
I have visited Big Cat Rescue several times and I’m always impressed with the beautiful property and how happy the cats are. The keepers are very knowledgeable and clearly love all of the animals
Big Cat Rescue is amazing! I have been on tours and watch the live posts ! The cats have the best life they could live in their retirement years, they get so much love and pampering and enrichment! The staff are so invested in these animals and it’s very clear and the way they interact with them and the way they treat them. They have a great following of lay people and we love the cat’s! Big cat rescue makes my heart happy because of all the good they do for the cats
Great caring people. BCR cares for hurt and abused cats. BCR is committed to educate public about ethical treatment of animals particularly big cats.
This rescue group not only takes in the neglected , traumatized and other horrors of the cub petting industry. But diligently gets the word out that bigs cats and crossbreeds and other non domestic cats are not meant to live their life in cages. I am grateful Big Cat Rescue exists for a place for the unwanted and confiscated cats to live out the rest of their lives until the problem of backyard breeding and cub petting no longer exists thanks to laws passed in Congress. I would love to see that Big Cat Rescue one day will be able to close because the laws in the United States will allow for no more breeding and cub petting. That is their whole goal in their mission.
There's no more special a place than Big Cat Rescue! All of the cats are treated with respect and love and recieve the best care possible.
Big Cat Rescue is beyond AWESOME. They put their entire Hearts & Souls & Loads of Love into each & every animal in need
The love for the animals shows in everyone and everything done here. I am a supporter and stalker of all the live videos they do and the cameras they have around to watch the cats. From the cats that call it home to the bobcats they catch get better then release back to the wild everything is done with the cats best interest in mind
support this rescue group. They take excellent care of every cat including veterinary services, on site hospital, commitment to rehabbing and releasing bob cats, feeding high quality meats with a variety of choices. They make sure each cat get meds as prescribed especially for each individual cats health. The cats receive special treats and engaged with enhancements to give the cats a better quality of life. Every cat had a huge enclosure to call home that has toys, platforms, various rooms to roam that allows the cat a choice where to lounge. I could go on and on but urge everyone to spent some time following BCR’s FB page see some beautiful cats and learn about what a true rescue group does.
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Wonderful place to visit and support! A caring staff. clean well cared for beautiful cats. It is obvious that the comfort and health of these animals is the top priority of this facility. The cats live in large landscaped area s geared for the mental and physical health needs of each cat. If you are ever in the Tampa area I highly recommend you add this facility to your list of thing to do you won't be disappointed.
Big Cat Rescue is amazing. Not only do they provide a safe haven for abused and abandoned big cats, but they do an amazing job of being their voice. You can't help but fall in love with the cats and their transparency in everything they do takes all of us on the journey of their lives. I trust them to always do the very best for the cats. Not only the ones they have taken in, but helping other sanctuaries and supporting important programs for those in the wild.
I love big cat rescue. We've been there several times and I love how they take care of the cats that they rescue. I like hearing the stories, but I love seeing how much everyone loves the cats. I didn't know about the abuse big cats get out in the country, and it breaks my heart. Then you see the love everyone has for the cats and the cats for the keepers. It's amazing.
BCR is home to abandoned and/or rescued cats. They have a rigorous keeper training program and have many volunteers as well as staff. The people are wonderful and nothing is too good for the cats. Highly recommend.
Big Cat Rescue is about giving the cats in their care, the best life possible. Donations are 100% to the cats. They are open about what they do, there are live feeds, and cameras all around the Sanctuary. The care they give the cats, taking the needs of each individual cat, and creating a plan just for that cat, it is unparalleled. Their mission is to provide the cats at the Sanctuary a long and happy life, but they are also trying to encourage laws to end the need for places like this. They want to end cub:petting pay-to-play schemes and abuse, and private ownership of exotic cats. These animals belong in the wild, not in cages. But, once they’ve been born in a cage, they can never go free. Please go to bigcatact.com to help. Big Cat Rescue is GFAS accredited, and sets the standard for taking care of exotic cats.
Big Cat Rescue brought me out of a very dark time in my life. I found them last August when I happened across a video of theirs. I was very down due to the pandemic and all of its restrictions. I felt like a prisoner in my own home and then an awesome video showing me all of the beautiful cats at BCR, what their mission was and how they take care of them. I've learned so much over this past year and I thank them for making my life better.
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I only recently found Big Cat Rescue by viewing a video from around November 2019. It was very informative as far as what goes on there and how the cats are being taken care of. All of the donations go to the help with the cats. The staff there really care about the well-being of all of the animals.
Big Cat Rescue, via a loving, professional and trained Staff and Volunteers, is the most wonderful group I have had the honor to know. What they do will help end the abuse and population of large cats in captivity, with the ultimate goal/result of actually “putting themselves out of business”.
BCR is the best place they care for the animals all the keepers and staff , volunteers help teach people more about the big cats and what they have gone through, They treat the animals with respect and caring everyone there is top above and beyond anything else
I have followed BCR since 2016, and found them to be transparent in their transactions, caring for the cats they rescue, and caring for the staff and volunteers who care for the rescued cats. They are true to their values and communicate well with the public and their donors. One of the best charities I have ever contributed to!!!
I found Big Cat Rescue when I was at a low point in my life and as I watched the cats go through their hard times I started to fight harder as they did. I started to chat with the women in the lives and started to learn more about the mission and came to learn that we need to stop cub petting and stop backyard breeders and zoos from selling the cats to private owners. Carole is an inspiration to me and even though I have not met her I know that she is an honest, caring, loving and has the passion for her cats and cause that I strive to have in my own life. I am now a moderator on Facebook and the women that I work with all have the same goal and passion to get the Big Cat Public Safety act passed. We are not just here to meet people we are volunteering because we have the passion to make the cats lives better. The women are like my family and so are the cats. There was a tiger Zabu and a lion Cameron that lived together and Big Cat Rescue saved then from a horrible place. They had some health issues but that did not stop the two loving each other even though they were from different species. I think the world could have learned how to love from them. Pryia a tiger was saved from a breeder that over bred her and she never got to raise any of her cubs as they were taken for pay to play schemes. When she got to BCR she was very ill and almost died. She now has a beautiful enclosure with a lake she can swim in and no longer had to breed for people to make money. Big Cat Rescue also rescued 3 male tigers from a circus in Guatemala. They will never have to be beaten or forced to perform ever again. The cats are happy and I could tell you about Aria who was neglected and had gapping cuts to the bone on her and now she is healed and still has issues with the scars, but all the cats here are happy and know love and never have to be abused or neglected again. Please take some time and look at their website and learn about them and make the call of the wild to stop the abuse. Big Cat Rescue is the best nonprofit I have had the privilege to volunteer for. www.bigcatrescue.org and www.bigcatact.com
I came upon BCR on social media a few times and it looked quite interesting. There was one time in particular when a tiger was being rescued from a circus in Peru. His name was Hoover and I watched him touch grass for the very first time. He put his big paws in the lake and splashed the water. I had to visit! The moment I stepped on property I saw these beautiful cats at peace. These formally abused, starved and neglected cats were being treated like royalty. The on site hospital and the enrichment was nothing like I had ever seen. I knew I would be back and I knew I would be a big part of this paradise for big cats. Once I learned the mission was to end captive cats and to end private ownership I asked how I could help. I asked to volunteer and have never looked back. Big Cat Rescue saves lives and gives a second chance to these apex predators! To me it is the best place ever!
I am an online volunteer for Big Cat Rescue because I support their mission to help big cats in abusive situations and to help save them in the wild where they should be. This accredited sanctuary is a true sanctuary for these exotic cats and they provide the cats with excellent food, care and veterinary needs. I am honored to help support their mission and help educate about the plight of big cats in cages. They also rehab Florida bobcats that have been injured or orphaned and return them to the wild. Big Cat Rescue is transparent in their objectives and have several public cameras around the property that are operational 24/7 to see the cats. The cages are very spacious and allow the cats a wide variety of places to nap and relax. The safety protocols are extensive.
This is the only business that I know of that is working diligently to put itself out of business! The way it is hoped that will happen is by getting the Big Cat Public Safety Act passed in the legislature of the United States. To date, I have only been there twice but fell completely in love with the grounds, the animals in the care of all of the volunteers and their mission. Everything they do is for the cats in their care.the enclosures are huge and stimulation is provided in the form of enrichment daily. Medical care is provided in their onsite facilities by volunteer veternarians who have dedicated themselves to the care of the cats. USDA grade meat, fish and poultry make up their daily diets. I can't imagine a better GFAS accredited rescue.
Big Cat Rescue truly practices what they preach. I chose to be an online volunteer for BCR because of their dedication to the cats and their transparency about the management of the sanctuary. To the best of my knowledge, no other sanctuary comes close to matching the number of 24/7 live cams that Big Cat Rescue has on their cats. I'm proud to be part of an organization that not only looks forward to, but actively strives to attain, the day where they are no longer needed in the world.
I have regularly donated to BCR for years. They do a lot of great work but their bobcat rehab program truly touches my heart. They take in orphaned or injured bobcats and rehab them so they can go back to the wild. They have cameras 24/7 so you can watch them. My elementary students love watching them on camera and learning about how they grow up. I know medical care is expensive so I’m glad I can help when I can. I have personally visited BCR and there was such a feeling of peacefulness among the cats which meant a lot to me since many came from abusive situations. Wonderful organization.
Big Cat Rescue is a wonderful sanctuary for rescued abused, neglected and abandoned exotic cats. The cats are well cared for, including having an on-site hospital, and many volunteers are so dedicated they have been there for many years. They are very transparent in how they operate and use their donations. There are cameras around the sanctuary that are available for public viewing in which you can watch the cats 24/7! They provide a virtual tour, called a Walkabout, just about every day on Facebook which is then posted on YouTube. I love the care and concern and respect they have for these cats and how they use their place on social media to advocate for better laws to protect these cats. I never hesitate to donate when I can.
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BCR is a great place to visit and a very satisfying way to donate your hard earned money because it all goes to the cats. The sanctuary is clean, very well run and the cats, though many of them are old, are well taken care of. All cat care is done by volunteers and you can see how much they love these animals. I have taken the keeper, feeding, night and private tours and loved every one of them. I already have my reservations for this year!!! I also am very happy that they stress educating the public about the plight of captive exotic cats. So, check it out, enjoy, learn, and buy a souvenir at their gift shop to help the cats!
I am SO sick of the outright lies being posted in these 1 star reviews by supporters of Joe Exotic. I live down the street from BCR and have been going as a paying guest and as a volunteer for years. Here are the facts:
#1: The cages are NOT "tiny!" They are quite large. But only the front part is visible from the tour path. The enclosures go far back so that if the cat doesn't want to be on display, they have plenty of room to hide. The cats are NEVER forced to do anything they don't want, and that includes being seen. All enclosures are large enough for the cats to run, at least 1200 square feet, with dens, platforms, and plenty of trees and shrubs to hide in.
#2: Someone said they should release the cats to the wild or breed & release. Ridiculous! All of these cats were born into captivity and would have no clue how to survive in the wild. Some were declawed by previous owners, or had teeth removed (things that Joe Exotic did regularly to his cats). And as for breeding, the tigers are "generic" which means there is no way to know which specific genus of tiger they are. Species must remain pure in the wild, so introducing generic tigers into the wild would literally destroy the species.
#3: The cats are extremely well taken care of. They receive special diets made for them, not expired meat from WalMart. They receive top notch veterinary care from multiple trained veterinarians. Heck, the vet who takes care of 2 of my house cats is one of the vet volunteers there! They get monthly flea/tick treatments, all sorts of toys & enrichment to keep their minds engaged, and have an on-site actual animal hospital.
#4: The cats also get two week turns in very large "vacation rotation" areas. For the larger cats, it's a 2.5 ACRE enclosure with a large pond, fountains, all sorts of dens and platforms for lounging. Smaller cats take turns in the "FunCation" which is 22,000 square feet. Not exactly small!
#5: They are highly rated by both the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries AND Charity Navigator.
#6: They are transparent on everything. You can literally watch multiple sites there via webcams on Explore.org.
#7: They also rehab and release native Florida bobcats. Bobcats who are hit by a car, kittens who've been abandoned by their mothers or found in fire remains are first treated in the hospital (never actually seeing a human so they don't get comfortable with humans). They are rehabbed and once they are healthy AND able to hunt for themselves, released back into the wild where they belong.
So don't listen to the lies in the one star reviews. I would venture that NONE of them have actually been to BCR for themselves, and are basing their judgment on the lies told in Tiger King.
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I've now visited Big Cat Rescue 3 times and continue to be blown away by the gorgeous animals and the great care they receive. They've rehabbed Florida bobcats and released them back to the wild....rescued a beautiful lioness from drug dealers...saved tigers from a life in a tiny cage...All the cats receive top notch care and are a delight to see. If I could give 10 stars I would! Don't miss this wonderful experience!
Big cat rescue is all about the love! Caring for sick and injured rehab baby bobcats, abused circus tigers, and Everything in between! I have learned so much about big cats and their plight in the world. I have watched wounded animals get the help they need and thrive to the extent that they can return to the wild. I have wept as one of our beloved cats reaches the end of a long life and we had to say goodbye. I have rejoiced as rescued cats take their place at BCR, and revel at the feel of grass on their paws at last. Big cat rescue has brought all of this to me and countless others, and I am forever grateful for them. Make the Call of the Wild!
I went to Big Cat Rescue for the first time in 2018, I flew all the way from Paris to Tampa just to meet all the big cats and keepers that I used to follow online on FB ! It was such an amazing experience that I had to come back last year for their wonderful cat Walkabout !! It’s one of my best memory ever !!! When you see how well their cats are taken care of, all their work, dedication, Love and devotion, it’s very moving and inspiring !! I love them very much and I’m a huge fan and donator all the way from France !! :-)
They can count on me to help them as much as I can !! :-D
It was in 2014 when beautiful Hoover the TIger was brought to Big Cat in Tampa that I first discovered this wonderful place! I was driving in Miami and saw his Welcome Home Sign. I immediately began following the sanctuary, their compassionate staff and amazing family of animals. I have the greatest respect and admiration for Carol Baskin as she truly cares and fights for the safety and lives of all these amazing Big Cats. She is a beacon for them and Big Cat Tampa is truly a wonderful place. I support them, commend them, follow them, share their work and family of staff and animals and will continue to do so! Thank you. Monique Vetrano (Altamonte Springs, Fl).
I don't remember how I discovered BCR but from the time I did over a year ago I have become a supporter (costs you 99cents a month on a PayPal acct) and donate at least once a month often more. I wish I had the money to give them more as they are closed to tours due to covid. I watch every video they post and if I miss them live I go to youTube to catch them later. They take such wonderful care of the cats in their care. If you love big cats please help them out. The tigers are my favorites tho I love manny the jaguar and jinx the black leopard too.
Big Cat Rescue is a great place to visit. If you want to learn the plight of Big Cats this is the place. They have Big and little cats that have come from many different backgrounds. Some from the circus others from people who thought having a tiger or ocelots as pets only to find out that they really don't make great pets. All animals at BCR are taken care of and all needs taken off. When BCR reopens I highly recommend visiting I know I will. If you can't visit then go on the website to see how you can help.
We need to create awareness to help these innocent animals from being abused. Please sign petitions and let's help pass legislation to prohibit these animals as pets. Review your representative and see where they stand on these issues.
This year is a big year to vote so make you vote count.
Thanks and go visit BCR :)
I have visited BCR 4 times and have experienced each type of tour (Day tour, Feeding Tour, Keeper Tour, and Night Tour). The sanctuary is so peaceful; the keepers are very knowledgeable and it was amazing to have them share the stories of each cat with the visitors.
Big Cat Rescue are amazing. The work they do is vital and the goal they are working toward is too. Through interacting with workers and volunteers, it is clear how much they care for these animals and how much their health and welfare mean to them. Big Cat Rescue is one of the charities at the forefront of the fight against wildlife crime and the exploitation of wild cats.
Big Cat Rescue is an amazing rescue for abused and neglected big cats. Everyone there, staff, volunteers, interns, work tirelessly to make sure these cats have the best life they possibly can despite being in captivity. The more videos and footage you watch, the more you see the care, thought, and love put into everything they do. BCR is a GFAS accredited sanctuary. They do not buy, breed, sell, trade, or touch the cats in their care. They are trying to end the captive breeding and private ownership of these big cats that belong in the wild, not in a cage. I have learned so much from BCR and have so much respect for all the work they do for big cats!
Hands down one of the most dedicated deserving charities in the world. BCR does a fantastic job of zero buying breeding trading touching or selling of exotic big cats and they have impeccable integrity across the board. Can’t think of a better place to put my time and energy.
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What a magnificent sanctuary, home, retirement and loving space for cats and for the rest of us to learn, grow, and change our understanding about saving and preserving the spectacular lives of exotic BIG cats.
Big Cat Sanctuary (BCR) in Tampa, Florida is a serene, well-manicured and purrfectly appointed Big Cat facility that has rescued and continues to rescue cats of all types that have been bought sold traded and or kept to cuddle and touch when they should have been left alone in their own natural sanctuaries in the wild.
Carole Baskin, and her husband Howard, have poured their hearts and souls into this sanctuary along with a superb team of interns and volunteers that can be found around every turn.
I visited BCR, because I am a lover of all things cat, a conservationist at heart and promoter of advocating for the preservation of animals in general, but particularly exotic cats. Last year on safari in S Africa, I was able to visit and participate in a rehab, release and retirement home for Cheetahs, Caracals, Servals, and Savannah Cats that sparked my interest to search for something comparable in the US. I set out to find a place closer to home that exemplified what I experienced over there and I have found it in BCR Tampa.
Barbara Nicholas, Director of Donor Operations, is one of the passionate and compassionate staff at BCR. We did a private tour with her. We took a Keeper and Feeding tour two days prior with Barbara Ann and Rich who have been there over a decade and with Sue Messineo (sp) whom I will sing praises of as you read on. Barbara Nicholas is knowledgeable, exudes professionalism, and cares deeply for what she does at BCR. One of the things I look for in people who work to assist others whether human or animal is their genuineness. There are so many places and people that put on a front for a “cause” when in fact, they are full of it. But, Barbara Nicholas is the real deal. We couldn’t say enough great things about her private tour that would serve her justice, but suffice it say she is a stellar guide from pre booking to post tour. I like knowing what drives people to do what they do as it builds their credibility with me and without reservation she has my trust as she is dedicated, loving, and inspired.
Sue M, (a coordinator of over 12 years I recall her saying), gave us a Keeper tour you could write a short story about. He tour was beyond fascinating, fun, personalized, heart-felt, heart-warming, tearful which made it all the more endearing and wanting more, like reading a book or watching a show you never want to end. Sue taught us about the enrichments and had us participate in making them for the cats that we saw. Intern Elizabeth is a superstar back up person on the tour for us. Sue’s story of why she is at BCR is equally as inspired as Barbara Nicholas’ story and fits into the overall experience of all who work there and convinced me even more to become more involved with BCR. Sue, thank you for indulging a moment with me about my Bengal kitty Kalilah when you saw her picture…. You couldn’t have scripted that genuine response and it is appreciated. Sue had so much fantastic personalized information we didn’t want it to end.
Barbara Ann, our tour guide for the Feeder tour and Rich (the feeder extraordinaire) have been with BCR a long time. Rich knew a lot about a lot and has a great sense of timing with the cats and takes his role as serious as it should be taken with all due respect to the cats first and foremost. Barbara Ann follows the BCR protocol as all staff did to the letter. I know this as being incredibly important to the functioning of the facility as I had taken the entirety of the Zoo College certificate online course to learn as much as I could about BCR in an effort to educate myself and become more involved with them on a greater scale to help the cats. Barbara Ann loves the cats, and has unique personalized stories of her own about and with each cat as they’re all her favorites. I am glad that she was impressed that Jasmine tigress and my husband had a chuffing conversation to beat the band.
One of my favorite people moments was meeting Brittany Mira. How can you not love Brittany? She is everything you hear and more from her daily video feeds. She is dedicated and loving full on and BCR has a gem in her. Wished I could have spent more time with her hearing her stories too.
I was able to see Karma buzzing around busy busy busy and Jamie was too and off in the distance at one point was Carole who I didn’t get a chance to meet (next time for sure), but did meet her lovely and very humorous husband Howard who had a good Boston joke for us.
Overall, I spent approximately 5 total hours at BCR between the three tours and talking with staff time. BCR is a family, it is committed, it is an exemplary sanctuary and I look forward to my return and will continue to support the big cats!
I highly recommend checking out all aspects of BCR and please make the Call of the Wild by texting CATS to 52886 and following the prompts. There is so much we can do to help beyond just giving money.
Each month our nonprofit (The Community Roundtable of Greater Brandon) draws a ticket which the winning attendee gets to give $100 to the nonprofit of their choice. When I had won, I chose Big Cat Rescue. Big Cat Rescue let me choose a cat to sponsor which included tickets for a tour and picture and biography of the cat. It was an inspirational story I could bring back to the group and we were able to use the tickets for raffling to make more donations for other charities. It was a Win-Win-Win for so many. Who knew that ticket could provide such great feats?
Everyone at Big Cat Rescue puts the cat's needs first even before their own. They are GFAS accredited, which means they do not buy, sell, breed, or touch the cats. They respect the cat's needs and never make them do anything they don't want to do. Once you start following them you'll soon learn this for yourself. I love Big Cat Rescue and what they are doing.
I have been following the Big Cat Rescue site on Facebook for almost 2 years, and I cannot
say anything bad, the entire experience, first the education, and seen how all the animals
have the top notch care in the entire nation is incredible. We contributed to the cause with joy knowing all the money goes to to help those magnificent creatures. Over time, we even
purchased products and always are happy of the quality of every product we purchased. I'm a big fan of this sanctuary and plan on visiting them in person when they will re-open.
The ongoing written education programs they submit online for you to read have been outstanding. Often instructed at the higher education level, they are well organized and tell the full story from the habits of the animals to the organization of laws protecting the Big Cats and all in-between. They are well supported by examples and photographs. For the first time in many years, I am “alive and learning” again – and it feels great.
The videos and other media of Big Cat Rescue have produced are unlike anything I have ever experienced, bringing my own exposure to definitely a higher level of education and entertainment. From daily live visits down at the rescue on-line to planned weekly on-line tours, I am fascinated by how the Rescue is successfully run and organized. I’d rather keep up with these videos than watch TV! They make me really happy. This gift of stories to read and watch has made me feel part of Big Cat Rescue. To support the gift they have given me, I have donated as I can to the Rescue because it makes me feel happy to do so. To know I helped pay for some Cats’ medical needs, to have been part of a team that provided enrichment toys and pumpkin treats, and even sent food treats to the volunteers who provide attention and care to Big Cat Rescue – all have given me such a joy and peace in this time of my life.
I first noticed a story about Keisha, a tiger who had lost her tail to another tiger or lion with whom she was kept in deplorable conditions. Her story touched my heart and brought me to Big Cat Rescue online. Soon thereafter they rescued a baby bobcat named Flint and I was hooked. Flint grabbed my heart and never let go. Now Keisha has gone over the rainbow bridge but I follow Flint and the other residents of BCR every day. Before I committed any money to them I thoroughly researched their nonprofit status, their history and philosophy, and their practices. I can’t wait to be able to visit in person.
I have been a follower and supporter of Big Cat Rescue for a year and a half now, since July 1, 2019. Discovering a certain little Bobcat Baby name Flint upon the recommendation of my animal-loving cousin, he captured my brain, heart, and soul. Big Cat Rescue has provided me with an opportunity to make my “brain” happier by learning about Bobcats and quickly growing onto learning about other Big Cats. I have realized how much I love learning – and the emphasis on education and learning about the world of Big Cats has made me so curious that I have to stay up late just to do online research for greater understanding and education. And enjoy it immensley.
I heard from a friend a.couple.years ago. But did not get interested in the Big Cat Rescue until this year. Love watching the videos.
I first discovered Big Cat Rescue in 2016 through a local newspaper article about an abandoned baby bobcat left on the road, rescued and later released by Big Cat Rescue. This led me to Big Cat Rescue's wonderful website and to the Explore website with all the live 24/7 cams. I have always loved cats, both big and small, but honestly never thought about what happens to tigers and other exotic cats in zoos, or other such facilities. It never occurred to me that big cats born in cages can never go free, ever. I first visited the sanctuary in 2017 and visited many times after that and my heart is always there. In January of this year, I semi-retired, got in my car, drove to Tampa and began volunteering at the sanctuary. Sadly, COVID hit in March and I headed back up North. I hope to get there again to volunteer. But in the meantime, I do whatever I can online to help BCR and further their mission of no more cats in cages. I call my representatives every week and ask them to cosponsor the Big Cat Public Safety Act. BCR is accredited by GFAS, is completely and totally transparent and is my favorite place in the whole world.
It has helped me become aware of the horrific things that have been done to these magnificent cats and ways to help fight the fight against cub petting etc
They treat the animals as they should be treaten , and they rescue them from slavery of little spaces, abuses and violence
Big Cat Rescue is one of the best sanctuaries in the world for rescued big and small exotic cats! They are very transparent with all that happens on the sanctuary through live feeds on Explore, nest cameras and daily live videos with keepers, staff or even the owner herself Carole Baskin. BCR is a GFAS accredited, non-profit, true sanctuary that has the highest rating on Charity Navigator and a 100% of the donated money goes to the care of the cats! They have excellent safety protocols, a high standard veterinary hospital on site, meticulous maintenance of the property and great caging.
I have supported Big Cat Rescue for years and since I live not far away I have visited multiple times. This is one of the top animal sanctuaries in the world, it is highly regarded, and people who complain that cages are small either have not been there in person, or are lying. The sanctuary gives cats who cannot be returned to the wild a chance to live out their lives with the proper food, medical care, entertaining enrichment to play with, and large compounds. When animals visit the vet, it is videotaped. When animals are moved, it is videotaped. Daily care routines are frequently live broadcast; I know of no other nonprofit animal sanctuary that has this level of transparency. The system of multiple caretakers working together ensures that no one person is ever alone and in a position to be harmed by one of the animals. The sanctuary has a Florida Bobcat Rehab program that rescues injured and orphaned bobcats, is structured to help them learn to take care of themselves, prevents the cats from bonding with humans, and returns them to the wild. That program alone would get my support. Even better, Big Cat Rescue's work extends beyond the sanctuary to support of on-the-ground conservation efforts around the world, and to supporting legislation within the United States to end both animal abuse and private ownership of wild animals. Thank you Big Cat Rescue for all the work you do.
When I first visited; I was impressed that a "shoestring" operation was able to run a rescue for unwanted cats. I was disappointed that most were small cats; not many big cats as the name implied.
A few weeks later I read several negative reviews about this operation (way before the so-called "shockumentary" about Joe Exotic. This is hardly a shoestring operation. There annual donations were between 3-4 million dollars a year. They have assets of close to 12 million.
This shed a totally different picture. According to their 2018 990's;
Animal care and education programs 660k (how much of that is for support of the cats is not stated -- education programs is revenue producing for them)
Legislative programs (I would presume lobbying) 79k
If your into financials please read any/or of the 990's (you may have to register at guidestar.org to get them)
https://www.guidestar.org/profile/59-3330495
Viewing the tiny cages the animals are kept in - this is the exact opposite of an animal sanctuary that I wish to support. The cages were small and several animals had the pacing behavior which indicates they are under stress and is not indicative of healthy behavior.
https://pictures-of-cats.org/why-do-tigers-pace.html
I did make a modest donation a year or so ago -- that will be my last. I am looking for better places to donate. There are better places to go, even if they are farther away.
I have visited Big Cat Rescue in Citrus Park many times and the staff and volunteers are always courteous, the cats are well kept, and in enrichment-filled and large enclosures. The recent posts below have obviously been posted by people who have never been to Big Cat Rescue and all they know of the sanctuary is the inaccuracy shown in a Netflix show. Having been to Big Cat Rescue in person many times, I can say with 100% honestly that the cats are provided the very best possible care, but very devoted and compassionate people. Big Cat Rescue is accredited by the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries, and they have worked with Animal Defenders International as well as The Humane Society of the United States. If you take the time to wade through the fake, 1-star reviews by people who have nothing better to do than spread false information, you will see the true, 5-star reviews by the many, many people who have visited over the years.
I have supported BCR for many years and the recent "documentary" Tiger King has greatly disappointed me with all of its lies. Those who are leaving a review about small cage sizes, poor environments, etc. are honestly not very bright people and have never in their lives been to BCR because if they had (if they they did a quick google search), they'd know how large and exceptional the enclosures actually are. I encourage anyone who has doubts about this sanctuary to please do some research before believing the "documentary" that holds no truths whatsoever. And let me ask you this, if BCR is as bad as the series portrayed it, then why has it won Best NonProfit at least seven years in a row, the GuideStar Platinum Seal of Transparency, the America's Best Charities Seal of Excellent and a perfect score of 100 from Charity Navigator, the most respected charity evaluator? Doesn't add up if BCR has such small unkempt cages like the "documentary" suggests.
Want a quick explanation about why BCR cages looked small on your screen? They're not tiny square gravel-floored boxes like Joe Exotic's cages, they're multi-sectional curve-walled enclosures that range from 1200 square feet to 1 acre (not including the 2.5 acre vacation rotation enclosure). Yeah. The smallest enclosure is the size of a small house. I've attached a map. Please note the tunnels connecting sections of enclosures. I have also added the state's requirements for big cat cages VS what BCR actually provides.
Please, before you speak poorly about business, people, and charities, you may want to do a little research or else you'll look like a complete fool.
Do not donate to this charity. If you want to donate, donate to the world wildlife fund or PETA. The owner keeps the so called rescued cats in small cages, not anything like their natural habitat. They have more than enough donations through the years to have given humane homes for them and instead use the money for themselves.
bigcatrescuer 05/09/2021
You have based your reviews on lies told to you in Tiger King. If you research us you will find the truth at BigCatRescue.org/netflix
Ive been a supporter for 20 years and have watched all the great work Big Cat Rescue has done and awards they and Carole have received over these years. I just went and flagged all the fake one star reviews on here from the idiot Tiger King watchers. who know nothing but the slander they were fed by Joe Exotic, who now, by the way, has changed his tune. Says he is ashamed of himself. IF people did research or followed BCR, they would know the enclosures are not small and they are rotated into a vacation huge enclosure. Her former husband Don, who had another woman in Costa Rica when he disappeared, was the one who wanted to breed the cats and she did not. The idiot who slandered Carole on here saying she called her the N word .. what a big lie. I puked in my mouth a little. NOT true. Then the other guy who says he "Was treated unfairly and ignored." Oh boo hoo, you expect them to respond to you when you troll their accounts and harass them. BIG CAT RESCUE IS AWESOME and CAROLE BASKIN IS INNOCENT. Check out ALL the good work they do on their channel- Meet the cats instead of spending time slandering!
The big cat rescue is much like the big cat zoo's that they claim to be so against. As a matter of fact as recently as 2011 they were still participating in contact between big cats and people and had a photo shoot with some of the Kardashian sisters. Why is it okay for the big cat rescue to participate in pay for play with big cats but not anyone else? If you ask me they are quite hypocritical and are actively participating in what they preach against. As a former donor, I will be taking my donations elsewhere.
bigcatrescuer 05/09/2021
You have based your reviews on lies told to you in a TV show called Tiger King. If you research us you will find the truth at BigCatRescue.org/netflix
Went back in January. Awful place. Dirty as well. Those poor animals dont deserve to live in filth.. They exploit these animals in the name of animal rights but they just use them and their vulnerability as a way to squeeze profits out of unsuspecting people trying to help these animal. Whoever runs this should be ashamed of themselves. How dare they. They should be locked up and kept in filth just like they do to these poor cats. Shame on you.
bigcatrescuer 05/09/2021
You have based your reviews on lies told to you in a TV show called Tiger King. If you research us you will find the truth at BigCatRescue.org/netflix
Big Cat Rescue is a trusted sanctuary for wild cats that cannot live in the wild. The cats are safely housed in beautiful outdoor enclosures and it is obvious that they are well cared for here. My visit was a life changing experience and I cannot wait to go back!
I visited the Big Cat Rescue on my 23rd birthday, I’ve known about this place for over 10 years. I use to watch the series about this place on animal planet so I’ve always wanted to go. I cannot compliment the people enough on being knowledgeable, nice, and how much love they have for what they do. This is so much better than any zoo. You’re able to get so close and learn so much about the individual animal. I absolutely loved it! If you’re ever in the Tampa area you are crazy to not go by there!
I have visited BCR many times, and for the past two years I have taken my grandson (age 11 - see photo below with his cat)) on private tours. I want the next generation to understand the need to end abuse and ownership of all wild cats. If it were not for the educational opportunities provided by BCR, we would never understand the need for this type of facility. Carol and her husband are great stewards to these animals. They walk the walk! Together with all of their employees and volunteers, no cat goes without food, medical care, safety, and love. I am so proud to be able to donate what I can to continue this extraordinary service to those who have no voice.
Review from Guidestar
Over the weekend, we scheduled a feeding tour to view rescued cats from across the country and Monday two male tigers coming in from Guatamala..most from deplorable conditions and the cats abused and neglected.
Big Cat Rescue is politically advocating a federal law that would outlaw owning big cats as pets. The cost to properly feed one tiger is roughly $10k a year. The permit cost in FL to own one is only $50.
It is the #1 cause of big cat abuse.
Help protect these magnificent animals who through no fault of their own have found themselves unreturnable to the wild.
Very educational about the hardships of these big cats and how we can help to prevent future issues for them. Warms my heart that these cats have a retirement home for life and have opportunities to be cats and run, play and sleep as they please. There is no place like Big Cat Rescue.
The Big Cat Walkabout 2019 was great! I loved being able to spend lots of time with the cats and being able to return to cats later that we didn't see out the first time around. Thanks for all you do for the cats, BCR!
A safe and well cared for retirement home for abused, abandoned and exploited wild cats
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This place is AMAZING! Carole Baskin and her staff and volunteers are fantastic. They all are very knowledgeable, friendly and fun. We took a feeding tour and a day tour and learned sooooo much! And their annual Big Cat Walkabout was absolutely mind blowing!! So well organized, got to see cats get enrichment, snacks, and just hamming it up for the crowds!! Even if you have trouble walking(because you do a lot of walking!) they offer golf carts for you to take the tours in. The nice thing is that all the proceeds goes to the CATS!!! This is a MUST SEE Sanctuary!!
I traveled from Massachusetts for the 2019 walkabout and had a fantastic time! I went for a keeper tour on Friday with Sharon who was amazing. She was very knowledgeable and answered any questions we had. You can tell she truly loves the cats (as does everyone who volunteers there) and made it such a fun first experience there for myself and my mother. The walkabout was a great experience and every staff/volunteer we saw was so friendly and helpful. Thank you to everyone who worked this weekend, you’re awesome! I’ll definitely be back again
A fantastic Sanctuary to visit. From the moment you step on to the property there is an amazing sense of peace and tranquility. The entire property is constantly cleaned and tidied, ensuring the safety of the cats and visitors alike. The Keeper I took my tour with was amazing. The amount of knowledge this lovely lady imparted was amazing, it included information on the individual cats and the reason specific programs are in place. I would encourage everyone to visit and support this amazing nonprofit, it is saving big cats one at a time.
They really care about the cats they house there. They put the animal's needs before everything else and that's the best I can ask for from any sanctuary I help sponsor.
The day tour was also very educational and it was exciting to see the cats so close and so relaxed.
Great nonprofit!
Great place for big cats to roam and not be caged up. Need more caring facilities like. Big Cat rescue
Thanks to all the volunteers
I've been a proud supporter of Big Cat Rescue for 25 years now and it remains, with Save the Children and the Snow Leopard Trust, my favorite charity. I feel that I have grown in my knowledge of the big cats and how to properly support them through BCR. We had a private tour on 8/16/19, which was fantastic. Barb was so gracious and many of the big cats came out to say hello (and show off), even though some of them are not that fond of constant rain. BCR is one of the premier sanctuaries in the world. Carole Baskin and the team have done an amazing job of creating a sanctuary where these cats will each receive the best care possible and where they will have a forever home. I know that my support will be used in the best way available and I feel confident in both financially supporting BCR and in using them as an example for others.
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I have been a loyal supporter of Big Cat Rescue for many years and dreamed of the day I could go visit the siteh. I finally had the opportunity last week and it was amazing. The concern that all of the staff and volunteers have for these magnificent creatures is amazing. I am proud to be affiliated, if only in a small way, with such a wonderful group. And I have learned a great deal over the years about helping protect the big cats.
The big cats here have found a forever home, protected from the torture and inhumane treatment that many of them encountered in their early days. The care takers are all volunteers and they genuinely love the cats in the sanctuary. They work to adopt out domestic cats as they partner with a local shelter. The tour was very educational and enjoyable.
Truly amazing sanctuary. They provide educational tours which demonstrate the love and care provided to these cats. Highly educational.
I was in Clearwater, Florida for a family wedding and so it was my chance to visit Big Cat Rescue in nearby Tampa. I’m so glad I did!
I completely enjoyed my tour meeting these amazing animals and the wonderful staff, volunteers, and interns who care for them.
Our guides were so enthusiastic and knowledgeable and patient with all of our questions. I learned so much.
Hearing the stories of how these big (and sometimes not so big) cats came to be here was heartbreaking. Magnificent animals abused, neglected, and used for profit were thankfully brought to Big Cat Rescue. This is their now their forever home.
It’s a shame that such a place has to be and hopefully the more people learn about the incredible work they do and push to end such horrible practices continues, there will no need for them.
Our tour lasted ninety minutes. The cats have large enclosures and are very secure in them. There are directions to follow for the visit for everyone’s safety ( these are wild animals, not domesticated)but they don’t take anything away from the experience. There is parking available and water stations placed at various stops along the way that’s so great on warmer days. I even picked up a few items in the gift shop. All the fees goes to the cats.
I wouldn’t be able to say which cat was my favorite. I loved them all. Thank you, Big Cat Rescue. I loved everything about my visit. Well worth it!
Big Cat Rescue is not just about seeing amazing big, and little cats, but to help educate the public about their plight. The staff. mostly volunteers, work tirelessly to make sure these rescued cats get to live out the rest of their lives as comfortably as possible. The cost of the tours go directly to the care and well being of them, and it's such a great experience. If you're ever in the Tampa Bay area, take the time and visit, you won't be sorry.
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I have been to Big Cat Rescue 3 times, and I'm going back in a couple of weeks. The work they do is incredible! And not only do they rescue these amazing animals, but they help educate the public on the various ways that they are abused or mistreated. It's terrible that places like this are needed, but so wonderful that these cats have a place to once they are rescued from deplorable conditions.
Big Cat Rescue is a very special place with very special people looking after Big Cats who now call the Sanctuary home. The cats didn’t have a good start in life, most have been rescued from appalling cruel conditions, their stories are heartbreaking. We have taken several tours; Private Tour, Keepers Tour and the Feeding Tour. The tours are informative and educational, you are not guaranteed to see all the cats as it’s up to the cats if they want to come out and see you. The cats have large enclosures with several dens, pools and toys. I can’t recommend this highly enough.
We went to the 3PM Sat Mar 23rd tour. It was awesome!! Tour guide knew her stuff and answered all the questions. New since our visit March 2018, they have transmitters that hang around your neck and a earpiece so you can hear each cats story then ask the guide questions. It is a great idea! Often with the tours before they had the transmitters, you didn't always hear everything the guide said. The cats are gorgeous and so well loved and cared for!
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This was a fantastic tour, absolutely worth the time and the tour fee! It was nice to see the animals so relaxed and happy and learn all about the current issues around captivity and conservation for these beautiful animals.
When people interfere with the natural environment for wildcats - Big Cat Rescue is there to provide the best possible life for the animals and spread the word through education and encouragement that wildcats are best left wild
We visited BCR recently and the experience was outstanding. Learned much about the abuse and exploitation of these magnificent creatures. BCR is a marvelous facility that supports their feline residents with maximum care and concern.
Most particularly, it was really cool to get so close to these beauties. Nature at its finest!
This is a wonderful forever home for big cats that cannot be released in the wild. Through their education and legistration (on all levels) we can ALL protect these wonderful wild animals and forever banish wild animal private ownership. So we will not “need” sanctuaries.
A wonderful forever home for big cats who have been abused. I follow the cats on Facebook and visit once a year. Also, BCR is my Amazon Smile charity.
The Keeper Tour is a keeper! We got be make some easy enrichment for the cats and then spent about 2 hours walking to see various cats use what we made. The keeper, Des, is very knowledgable and we got to see him work with the cats to do the training they need to make sure the cats can be cared for well - operant training. We learned the background of many of the abused animals and heard them chirp, purr, chuff, moo, bark and even roar. So many fun things to see - the 500+ pound lioness roll over (that's a lot to roll) - tigers swimming and playing in pools and a lake. So much to see and so much to learn!
Flew in from Massachusetts to take the keeper tour and to visit some friends in the area.
They do a wonderful job of keeping the cats happy, healthy, and engaged with enrichments.
Thank You all!
AMAZING! What an experience, what a mission... And the people behind it! A true non-profit with 13 staff members and 100 volunteers; but you would never know it from the fantastic tour... THANK YOU!
My daughter had been following Big Cat Rescue on YouTube for months and she was so captivated by what they do and all the cats. For her 9th birthday she wanted to visit, so I made it happen. We learned so much & enjoyed the kids tour very much.
I think they have a wonderful mission and I hope someday there won’t be a need to rescue these wonderful cats anymore. But while we do I think this organization is top notch.
BCR is a great facility, who takes care of both the cats and the humans who help the cats. They provide excellent information on all aspects of taking care of the cats.
What a wonderful place the Big Cat Rescue is!!! If you have not visited here then you must go! You will not be dissapointed for sure! These big cats are all rescued from all kinds of abuse, they are all older cats that need expert and specialized care and they get the very best of care from their vet staff and also an onsite hospital complete with surgical unit! If your lucky you may even have a Tiger "Chuff" at you or see one play with a large ball or splash around in their personal pond or perhaps just running around! So do yourself a favor and visit this amazing place, we have made 3 visits so far and plan to go again very soon!
Big Cat Rescue is THE place to go if you are visiting Tampa! Not only do you get to see beautiful cats and hear their amazing stories but some of the best people in the world work and volunteer there. You will never meet more dedicated loving people than the staff at BCR!
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My visit to the BIG CAT RESCUE Wildcat Walkabout was phenomenal!!! Not only is the staff warm and friendly, but they go out of their way to make you feel like you are part of their very awesome world of the big cats that we all love so much!!!! My support of this sanctuary is so near and dear to my heart, and I am so glad I found them a year ago.....the work they do goes above anything I have ever seen as far as the love, care and attention they give to these animals that were rescued from horrendous conditions. Thank you BCR for all you do, we love and appreciate you!!!!
Wonderful rescue! They do a fantastic job taking care of these animals and giving the best retirement life they can have. The tour was great and I like that they provide stories for each animal you see. The tour guide was very nice and knowledgable. I also loved that they provided education and letting us know how we can all help these big cats.
I love The Big Cat Rescue and have been there many times! This nonprofit is so fantastic with the kitties and their environment! I enjoy visiting and seeing the improvements made in the facility over the years. I highly recommend visiting and being amazed at the beauty of the big kitties.
Absolutely impressed! Big Cat Rescue is just that! These folks clearly have the best interest of the cats in their care as most do but the difference here is they are living within a very high standard of care and concern for well being. Super impressed that they have very strict guide lines on ages of visitors and that nobody is to be left unattended.
Would recommend and will visit again!!
Although it is difficult to hear and see (via the introductory video) the stories of how these beautiful creatures came to Big Cat Rescue, it helps to know that a place like this exists and truly cares about these animals. Each habitat is designed with the special needs of the cat (or cats) who will be living in it. The guides are informative and my daughter & I enjoyed this activity immensely. Worth every penny! Plus we donated & made purchases at the gift shop, in order to help this very important non-profit organization.
We had the privilege of a private tour on 7/24/18. I am awed by the labor of love in this sanctuary. It is obvious how content these cats are. No pacing or agitation. Just lounging, rolling and interested looks at the crazy visitors in the rain. What an amazing experience! If they can't be in their natural habitats, this is the next best thing. Thank you for taking care of these gorgeous, majestic creatures.
I went to Big Cat Rescue for four days straight.. June 21-25 2018
Each day was better than the first!
They were professional and they taught me so much about the Big Cats. The Sanctuary was clean and very well maintained and the animals were the first priority . I was very Impressed.
It is a must see for the entire family!
And when you see and hear the Cats up close .. it is just a fantastic experience .
LOVE IT - LOVE IT - LOVE IT
Simply Awsome sanctuary
Properly the worlds greatest santuary for big cats
Took the Keepers Tour. It was a great experience where you got to learn about the animals and how the ended up in the Rescue. They also explained and teach you about many misconceptions of the cats in general. Rebecca was a great guide and first hand experience. You could see the love that she has for the organization.
Big Cat Rescue is a non-profit that is not only working to better the lives of the cats in their care but the lives of future cats and big cats as a whole! They work with the upmost respect for these animals and put their well-being first, all while making a point of educating the public and offering their visitors with fantastic opportunities to get to know these animals and be exposed to their worlds. So, let me start by saying this: I originally signed up for a Keeper Tour in Tampa...I fell in love and decided to immediately sign-up for the next available tour! I couldn't not go again.
The hard work and devotion of the staff and volunteers at Big Cat Rescue is undeniable. Both tour guides I had were absolutely fantastic -- clearly, they loved each and every one of these cats and what they did. They were entertaining, friendly, and so passionate! Not only was it enjoyable to watch, but it was contagious. Not a single member of either tour was without a constant smile. Plus, the grounds were beautiful and clean. There was a very notable focus on making sure each cat had lots of room and that the sanctuary was just that- a sanctuary, or "retirement home", for their animals and not a zoo.
The cats were obviously well-cared for and loved; and, in return, were content with approaching our group, rubbing against their enclosures, rolling about, and playing. It was so refreshing to see! I nearly cried with excitement when a tiger (beautiful!) walked over to me and chuffed. They have an array of animals and our guides were more than happy to share personal stories about each cat and their personalities. You couldn't help but feel connected to them!
The team also makes a point of educating their visitors on issues facing big cats today. Which is really admirable! At the end of the tour, they discuss matters such as the legal sizes of cages (heart-breakingly small, especially after seeing how happy the cats are in the enclosures at Big Cat), canned hunting, and big cats as pets...and not only do they provide education, but they provide easy options for taking action and making a difference. They are currently founding a bill and have a number of signatures and co-sponsors in the US Senate and House of Representatives! They give you information on how to make a quick "Call of the Wild" or send a quick email to help support this effort. It was very motivating and spoke a lot to what they stand for: not only helping their cats, but cats globally and in the future! They make a point of caring, educating, and taking action. As our guide said: We would be happy if there came a day where we weren't needed. We're working to put ourselves out of business. Take care of big cats, keep them out of some of the situations they are legally allowed in now, and maybe they won't need to be rescued.
Overall, Big Cat Rescue is an incredible organization, really doing their best to make an impact in the lives of not only their cats but other cats. I have so much respect for them and the way they are constantly growing and working to improve themselves, too. They incorporate new research and findings into their approach with the cats and the community. It's mostly all volunteers and interns, too -- people with good hearts who love to share their knowledge, friendly smiles, and passion with others.
To finish off, I highly recommend the Day Tour but especially The Keeper Tour (such a unique experience!). Here were some highlights from my tours: making enrichment materials and then getting to watch the cats play with them (Kali the tiger really loved her spice tube!); feeding the cats 'bloodsicles' (everyone loved them, but especially Armani the Leopard, who was in the 'vacation' enclosure at the time and in a playful mood); getting to hear from not only one but two experienced keepers (I highly recommend asking the keepers what a typical day is like for them- it's fascinating!); watching Jasmine the tiger get a bath (she couldn't get enough of the water!); watching the cats work on their operant conditioning (training to help with keeping track of their health and performing hands-off checks for medical care, etc.); having Priya the tiger chuff happily at me; watching the way Sundari the Leopard reacted to seeing her favorite keeper (when our tour guide approached, she started making so many happy noises and rolling about); and, of course, simply learning and getting to go back and make the Call of the Wild myself.
I love Big Cat Rescue -- from their cats to the work they're doing to the volunteers, staff, and interns. Please consider supporting this organization!
This was an amazingly compassionate rescue. The care for these poor abused creatures was heartwarming. The facility was immaculate.
We enjoyed seeing and hearing the stories about the cats.would have liked a smaller group to travel around with.was there a few years ago and had just 6 of us and it was more enjoyable.
Even though it was a rainy day for our tour...it was wonderful! They do amazing things ...good work!
What an incredible place!! Do not miss this gem if you are anywhere near Tampa, FL. My boys and I love all animals and wild big cats in particular. We got a private tour with Barbara to see how these magnificent animals were rescued and now live in natural, safe, and loving habitats and environments where they are appreciated and honored. What a great treat and I will be a lifelong supporter and advocate!!
My husband and I did the regular day tour for his birthday. I loved the message/mission of the Big Cat Sanctuary. They are a real sanctuary that acts as a retirement home for abused big cats. Some of the cats were previously kept as pets from the exotic pet trade, some were bred for hopes of domestication, some were from circuses, some were from cub-petting tourist facilities, etc. They educate the guests on the inhumane treatment of big cats in all these situations and more.
These people don't just rescue big cats from horrible situations, they walk the walk as well. They are actively involved in trying to get legislation passed(federal) that would stop breeding, importing and personal ownership of these endangered and dangerous felines. Despite the oft heard cry of "its my right", it ISN'T our right to own or abuse these creatures. I'm sorry I can only see them in zoos and rescues, but humanity is trying its damnedest to kill them all off! Big Cat Rescue shows on its tours that there can be some happy endings, and their knowledge and care are treasures.
Wonderful charity. They truly care about these beautiful animals and give them the chance to enjoy their lives in a safe and thriving environment. They also spread awareness about how to protect the cats and prevent acts that lead to abuse. Thankful that such a place exists and they have a new lifetime supporter in me. Thanks Big Cat Rescue for all that you do!
The tours are very organized and move along promptly. The portable system they use to tell the stories of their cats is unique and worked well (although I had an issue getting the earpiece to stay in place at times). The tour is informative, but sad, as almost all the cats had previously been abused/neglected. But it's good to see them being well cared for now! The trails are easy to walk on, the place is clean & well-maintained (as well as an outdoor place can be). The gift shop/tour start building is nice (clean restrooms!). The gift shop isn't overpriced like some places. We had a good time!
For obvious reasons I wish there wasn't a need for a sanctuary like this, but since there is those fabulous cats couldn't have found a better one!!! Kudos to Carol, the staff, volunteers and interns!!!
What a great spot to view Big Cats! We took our 14 year old for her birthday this past weekend and did the Daytime Tour.
It was a great opportunity to learn more about the rescues at Big Cat and the stories behind each of the cats we saw. We learned the process to become a volunteer and got to see cougars, leopard, tigers, lions, bobcats, cervals and more. It was incredible.
Walking tour was about 1.5 hours and informative both from the guides and the recorded stories given via audio-boxes for the tour. The gift shop was great and reasonably priced. We'll be back!
Our guide was so informative and funny! He was able to help me and my son understand better how similar human and cat behaviors are! He clearly communicates as an expert on the subject with a great deal of enthusiasm and compassion. We had a great time and loved being in such close proximity to the cats. My son was seriously wow'd and said more than once that he is "so going to brag about this!" He even got excited at the prospect of being an intern when he's in college - AND he wants to donate his allowance to the cause!
One can get really close to the cats but still feel safe. The animals are well-treated and cared for considering it's life in captivity.
It's a terrific learning experience for adults as well as children. The tour guides are great. Very friendly and knowledgeable of the cats and respectful too.
I only wish they had installed a nice tearoom or snack shop to relax in after the tour is over.
Our first visit to BCR was in 2014 and there has been no turning back!!! I wasn't sure what to expect going in, but my life had changed forever when I came out. I don't want anyone to think this was an in your face, hard sell, guilt trip experience. Nothing could be farther from the truth. We learned some of the cats stories and about pay to play industry, the lives circus cats live, canned hunts, breeding farms and sale of body parts. It's not graffic, but eye opening. BCR tends to take the older cats or cats with medical needs, because of their on-site hospital and superb vet care. These cats have never had any control of their lives, but they run on cat time now. Unless, three is an emergency! They are fed restaurant quality meets everyday, along with a vetanary ground meat with supplements. Their cat-a-tats are designed for their comfort. Trees and platforms to climb on, dens and natural fauna and grasses to hide in. Shady spots and sunny areas to nap in. Toys and enrichments to play with and places to swim for those that do. We have done four other tours and we just attended the Wildcat Walkabout and had a Private Tour. It is wonderful to walk through the home that BCR has made for the cats. I love looking into their eyes and seeing them bright and interested. Some were in such bad shape, physically and emotionally when they came. Now their coats are shiny and they look so healthy. I truly believe they know that they are safe and loved. It is up to the cats whether to interact with the quest. Some are really shy and others love company. Andy tiger loves to show off for guest. Mon. he was in and out of the lake and attacking his red ball. He came over to chuff, moo and other tiger chatting sounds. It was nearly impossible to walk away from him. Seeing them playing warms your heart. The tours help to pay for the cats food and all of the animal care is done by a team of amazing volunteers. BCR fosters kittens for the Tampa Bay Humane Society and helps with spay and neuter of feral cats. They have a very successful Bobcat Rehab and Release Program and participate in many conversation programs. BCR is putting forth a bill that would stop the private owenership and breeding of big cats. This bill could make the need for sanctuaries obsolete. Read the BigCatAct Public Safety Act HR1818 and see if you might want to Make the Call of the Wild!!!
We just did the annual Wildcat Walkabout. What an awesome experience! We were able to walk the tour path at our own pace. It seemed crowded before the tour started, but once people started on the trail, it spread out and we were able to see the big cats up pretty close. The caretakers had provided the cats along the tour path with enrichment items, so most of them were out where you could see them playing with pumpkins and enjoying their special popsicles. I will definitely sign up for this next year!
Big Cat Rescue is a great organization that takes all injured or confiscated cats for release or forever home. Without our support, these beautiful creatures would be euthanized, a great loss for nature and mankind.
Two of us toured the Cat Rescue last week. We had Victoria as our tour guide. The place was incredible. Victoria was extremely knowledge. I love that the animals are free to come out or not. The animal homes are large and have various plants, rocks and structures. We were impressed that the facility had vacation areas set up (very large areas; i.e.2 acres) that allowed large animals such as tigers to be able to go to that area several times a year to play and have fun. At the end of the tour, Victoria explained that they needed help getting a federal law passed. This new law would stop the small cramp cage used by some organization's today. Please see the Cat Rescue web site to help get this important law passed.
I made my second visit to Big Cat Rescue over the last weekend (10/26-10/28) and went on the Night Tour, Keeper Tour and Feeding Tour. All three tours were fantastic as were the tour leaders (Rich, Maureen and Desmond, respectively). Can't say enough about this sanctuary. Their love and care for the cats is so apparent. Once again (as with my January visit), we saw the cats only if they wanted to be seen. They were not "made" to be out for viewing. It was strictly up to them. Their enclosures are huge. The grounds of the sanctuary are beautiful. I was lucky to see a lot of the beautiful cats. I highly recommend a visit to Big Cat Rescue. You won't be disappointed.
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I love Big Cat Rescue. Found them via Explore.org and their 24/7 cams and became so interested in the sanctuary and their cause. Took a short vacation down to the area and went on the Day Tour two days in a row. The tours were great, the volunteers who led the tours were great and the facility is beautiful, peaceful and very well run. I can't wait to go back again.
This is a wonderful rescue facility. The big Cats are well cared for and the keepers and volunteers love their charges. I am so happy we found this place. Definitely a very good charity to give to.
Thank you to the incredible volunteers who give their time, energy and love to the beautiful big and little cats! We attended the feeding tour last Friday and it was clear that Desmond, volunteer and our tour guide, respected and cared for each of the cats. He was so knowledgeable about the cats and knew the quirks and story of each of them! While it is not the wild, Big Cat Rescue is the closest these babies will get to it! The enclosures are very large and support a natural way of living for the cats. One of the perks of the rescue is that the cats have a chance at living the longest and healthiest life possible because they receive routine medical care such as deworming, flea medication, and life saving surgeries such as teeth extractions, and mass removals, etc. They also have a cute little gift shop where you can buy gifts for all your loved ones and continue to support the rescue. My only regret is that I didn’t make it to more than one tour during my trip to St. Pete. I highly recommend scheduling a tour or two or three if you live in or willl be visiting the Tampa area!
Incredible experience during our tour Saturday. Steve was a great tour guide; we learned so much from him. The grounds and catitats were so clean and well kept. This is an amazing sanctuary for these beautiful cats, and there is clearly a lot of love that goes into its operation. Thank you, Big Cat Rescue, for being an advocate and sanctuary for these lovely creatures!
HELLO EVERYONE, MY NAME IS GAIL AND I WENT TO THE BIG CAT RESCUE ON FRIDAY. IT WAS VERY INTERESTING AND AMAZING TO SEE HOW THESE CATS ARE CARED FOR. ALL OF THEIR NEEDS ARE MET. THEY CAME IN BAD SHAPE, BUT YOU WOULD NEVER KNOW IT BY THE WAY THEY LOOK NOW. IT WAS A FANTASTIC DAY TO MEET THESE CATS.
I went to BCR for my first time yesterday and absolutely loved it!! My sister & I did the day tour at 10am and we got to see some of our favorite cats! Our tour guide was awesome & answered all of the questions that we had! I also made the call of the wild today!! We will definitely be going back again within the next few months!!
We took our sons and grandchildren to the Big Cat Rescue. Took the Feeding tour & The Keepers Tour. We love the animals and the staff was so knowledgeable and friendly. It was such a great day. The animals are so lucky to end up at this rescue center. They receive lots of love and care by all. Keep up the great work.
I have been wanting to go to Big Cat Rescue for over 15 years. My visit was so great and educational! Our guide was very knowledgeable and we learned so much about each cat, their personal story; along with everything the Rescue is doing to provide for them and to change existing laws regarding owning these majestic creatures.
I can’t say enough about our experience at the Big Cat Sanctuary. My boyfriend suggested we finally visit after years of talking about it, and it without a doubt worth the wait. We did both the Feeding Tour and the Keeper Tour.
The Feeding Tour was a small group—just us two and one other person! Our guide was friendly and knowledgeable about all the cats and answered every question we had. It was awesome to hear about the cats’ diets and how each animal is looked after to its own individual needs. We got to see the lynx, bobcats, servals, leopards, and two of the tigers eat. We were able to stop and look at some of the other cats as well along the way.—including the foster kittens!
The Keeper Tour was beyond my wildest expectations. Keeper Des and Keeper Jen were wonderful. We were able to create enrichment toys for the cats—some of whom were interested and some of whom were not. It was nice to see the keepers let the cats be themselves and didn’t force the cats to engage with anything they didn’t want to. They did give the cats meat treats along the way to bring them around closer for us to see and photograph as we heard their stories. We were able to see a lot more of the cats on this tour and spend more time with each one. At the beginning, Des even told us if there was a particular animal we wanted to see, he would do his best to make it happen. It was obvious that all of the keepers love what they do, and the love the cats. I enjoyed hearing the anecdotes that each worker had about particular cats. Just like people, big cats have their own personalities!
I also have to say a huge thank you to Keeper Honey. Little did I know, my boyfriend had planned to propose at the end of the Keeper Tour! My now fiancé (!!!) was able to propose with Seth tiger’s help thanks to her. She even made a wonderful sign for the occasion. We are both so grateful for all of the Big Cat Rescue staff for everything they did to make a special day even more special for both of us—but we are especially and forever thankful for Keeper Honey, Des, and Jen for helping make everything happen. We couldn’t have asked for a better day at BCR!
Seeing Big cat rescue was a dream come true, these cats are so well cared for and obviously loved. Every bit of money earned goes directly back to the cats and their care with things like enrichment, medical care, enclosure up keep and feeding them. This sanctuary is a true sanctuary and properly accredited and boy are they dedicated to these beautiful animals - big and small. I had the joy of being lead by Barb on a private tour and a general tour and she was fantastic and so knowledgeable - she took me to all the cats i wanted to see and told me about them in great detail - Barb was truly lovely to meet and I hope to see her again. As you walk around you can see the volunteers working diligently. Depending on what day and time you go you will see different cats so I would recommend booking multiple tours. I was able to see everyone I asked to but unable to see Hoover and TJ and Zeus as it was a very hot day and the cats needed their tiem away from the sun. Please don't be disappointed if you don't see your favorite cat! If anything that is a reason to keep coming back and to get acquainted with them. FYI private tour means you get to see what cats you specifically ask for and spend as much time with them as you like - I chose to spend most my time with Sabre the sweet black leopard.
We did three of the tours between Friday night and Saturday. Learning the stories of how each big cat came to be a resident at Big Cat Rescue will make you want to help any way you can.
And there are so many ways to help... Paper towel and TP cardboard rolls, yogurt cups, solo cups are some every day items you can forward to BCR! Making purchases in the on-line store, taking a tour are some other ways! Of course there is always monetary donations as well.
Go to BCR in person or visit their website and learn how you can help!
My husband and I had the honor of visiting Big Cat Rescue in Tampa Florida for a walking tour. We want to thank you for this wonderful opportunity to see how you have gone to such extremes to rescue and then to provide the big cats with an environment that will let them live out their lives in a safe place with respect from all of the kind volunteers that take care of them. The education that you provide to the public is exceptional, from the videos, to the volunteers that provide educational talks, and the taped recording about each individual cat and their stories during the walk. The safety and beauty of the habitat that you have provided is beyond awesome and prompted me to write my congressmen to pass the bill to stop the private ownership, as well as, donating to the cause. Thank you so much for the education and experience!
My family and I visited the Big Cat Rescue yesterday and had an amazing time. We watched the feeder feeding the big cats and the little cats. The feeder was talking to the cats with so much love in his voice that you know without a doubt how much the staff love and care for these animals. They educated us on what has happened to these animals and many more like them, hearing the stories behind these beautiful animals was heartbreaking and lit a fire in us to tell everyone we can what we have learned here and make sure they come to visit. The cats were so active and curious to the coming people, a few of them walked next to us in their cages until they couldn't folow us anymore. One tiger was rubbing up against the fence looking for love!! I can't wait to come back again and again!
Absolutely love this place!! The cats here are the happiest cats I have ever seen in captivity!! I would recommend anyone take a visit to see them and hear their stories!
Simply amazing. Every cat that is here has an arrival story and generally it's a bad one. To see the cats in what I felt were well oversized "catitats", treated with dignity, given great healthcare and given a quality of life they would not have otherwise received was a heartwarming experience.
Excellent education from those that are caring for them. One question that comes to mind is, "if you somehow acquired a cat like this, what kind of life will it have?" Think about it. Humans are the dominant species in the world and we have a responsibility to act as such.
Go visit Big Cat Rescue. I'm sure you will be as 'moved' as I was.
I had a fantastic time at the Big Cat Rescue in Tampa. I learned a lot about the reality of these creatures lives and what this amazing organization does to care for them. This experience gave me no doubt in my mind that I want to work with these beautiful beings! So next step is... fill out an application to volunteer there! :)
Big Cats rescue is truly doing what they say the're doing! The big cats there are content and so well cared for. The staff and volunteers are dedicated and truly there for these big cats instead of having the cats there for everyone else. If you're not sure about donating please do from a general public person who has seen live what your money is going to
An excellent experience for me and my 10-year-old son. Also a great cause to support. Highly recommended.
Fantastic place, always a great experience. They always make you feel welcome. They treat the animals exactly how they should be.
A great experience for the cost. Their philosophy is so crucial to the protection of these animals. It was a educational, relaxing tour. Definitely worth the trip, great staff and facility.
Big Cat Rescue does exactly what it says on the box - it rescues big cats from all over America and also from South and Central America, many of them having been orphaned by hunters when tiny, or subsequently abused by owners, or have been kept in terrible conditions or for nefarious reasons. It has, for example, 22 tigers (one of whom had, for example, been kept in a cage only a couple of feet larger all round than the animal itself) - by now magnificent animals in wonderful condition after being saved and cared for by BCR. Most of the staff are hugely enthusiastic volunteers or students studying related subjects at university - and all are well trained or in the course of thorough training, professional and delightfully polite and caring. Not only is this charity outstanding in preserving such threatened and magnificent animals, it does so in truly exceptional surroundings which provide the big cats with the sort of environment and space that they would experience in the wild, spread over 65 acres - definitely NOT a zoo! Tours are varied and take between 1 1/2 and 2 1/2 hours walking with a guide around the site - a wonderful experience for "children" of all ages (I am 77). I cannot recommend this higher for anyone interested in these beautiful animals - varying from small bob-cats to fully grown lions.
I took my 18-year-old niece on the feeding tour and the sanctuary tour. We had an incredible visit and learned so much. What a great organization! Very impressive and very caring staff. Thank you for all you do!
What an amazing place! It was so educational. To see the care and compassion for these cats made my heart melt!!!! Cannot say enough great things about this organization!!
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I visited Big Cat Resue last year. It was amazing. They provided me with so much education about big cats. I was able to tour and visit with the rescues. They are amazingly beautiful and their stories are heartbreaking...until you hear how BCR has helped them and saved them from abuse. I have followed them on Facebook ever since. I feel like I know all of the cats by name and theee little quirks based on the stories and the care that BCR provides to them. I also participate in some animal rights advocacy based on what they have taught me. I would give the 10 stars if I could!!! I can't wait to go back to visit again. It is truly an amazing non profit!!!
I am so thrilled these cats have a safe place to live out their life. It is obvious the cats welfare is the Rescue's main goal along with safety to the public. The cats are well cared for and seem to have the best life they can in captivity. Everyone should make a trip to visit these beautiful animals.
Loved the tour. This place is like a 5-star cat resort really. I was so nice to see these cats living the good life. Wish they all could have it so good! For us it was worth the 2 hr drive there.
As much as I have loved Big Cat Rescue ever since I first came across them on YouTube, I promised myself I would not write a review before actually visiting there. Now I finally have and it was a real dream come true.
I took part to Wildcat Walkabout on 1st of October in 2016 as a volunteer. I handed out tickets for the visitors, welcomed them and explained how they could support different projects with their ”conservation bucks”. Before that, on the previous day, I got the pleasure to have a look at the sanctuary itself. I got to meet the cats and all the hard-working interns, volunteers and staff members. Those are the nicest people you’ll ever meet, I can assure you. They work tirelessly to make sure the cats are doing well and everything is how it should be. I had long chats with Mrs. Baskin as well and she answered any questions I might have had.
It was amazing to see the Vacation Rotation Enclosure and Small Cat Funcation. Never have I seen such huge enclosures in zoos or animal parks. Their normal enclosures are filled with platforms, dens, pools, trees and grass; all the natural elements to make the cats feel at home. No concrete or pebbles, but pure soil under their paws.
I got to see the food preparation, which greatly impressed me. I already knew each cat has their unique diet, but to see it in person and follow the interns filling the food buckets with such care only enforced my respect for them and their work. I was also impressed by how carefully BCR was planning their event. There were 90 people helping on that day, mostly to make sure no one disturbed the cats or go beyond safety wire. Cats always come first there, no matter which day or event is underway.
I was introduced to intern housing, too. Big Cat Rescue does such fantastic work with how they’re doing their very best to be environmentally friendly. They use solar energy, they recycle their waste and they have specific instructions of their recycling policy in each of the trailers. If only every facility/company/business/organization chose to support green values as strongly as Big Cat Rescue does. After studying sustainable development I was prepared to make notes and request things to improve, but I quickly realized there was nothing I could have suggested to be done better. It was already beyond my expectations.
Big Cat Rescue has always been a huge inspiration for me. They’ve taught me that even one person can make a BIG difference and that one should never be afraid to speaking up for someone who has no voice to speak for themselves. It’s thanks to people at Big Cat Rescue I volunteered in South Africa, took part to Global March Against Canned Hunting and became a vegetarian. Without them I probably still wouldn’t have a clue how abusive cub petting is, what tiger farms are and that there are such awful places for animals in the world. They have opened my eyes in every possible way and for that I will always support them and their cause.
I have seen with my very own eyes how things at their facility work and how tirelessly they are all working for a better future for both people and animals. Thank you. I hope to return with my spouse one day in the future. He was greatly disappointed he had to stay at work while I got to experience this piece of heaven.
A great feel-good place for my daughter's 12 year-old birthday.
Thanks for taking such good care of those deserving and honorable animals.
The volunteers at the walkabout were ALL friendly and helpful.
They even provided COLD water for us in many locations thoughout the park.
We will be back.
Fantastic experience. Friendly and very educated staff. The cats appear non stressed and well cared for. Some are real hams and come out to see the tour groups as you start approaching.. I will be returning and will continue to donate...
My friend and I did the Keeper tour and it was worth every penny!
They let you take your time taking pictures, tell you the story of where each cat came from, they educate you on each animal and how we can help stop people from being able to have these wild animals as pets. They are not only saving lives, they are educating and helping to pass legislation. There volunteers are dedicated and humble individuals and you could tell the tour guide lives breathes and sleeps advocacy and conservation. A life changing experience, wish more places where run like this!
We took our 12 year old twins to Big Cat Rescue for the Keeper Tour. It was worth every penny! Our guide Jennifer was very informative and you could tell she loved the cats and her volunteer job! We have been donors for over 10 years and visited over 12 years ago and we see that our donations are very well spent. We also learned that we can do more to be and "Advocat" and make sure that our political leaders are working to stop private ownership of these majestic, wild and wonderful creatures. Thanks Big Cat for everything you do!!
To re-train an animal for wild release, it may be necessary to use live prey. In domestic cats, the mother teaches kittens to hunt for mice by first bringing back dead mice so they learn what to hunt for. She then brings back stunned live mice and demonstrates how to kill. Instinct alone will not produce a good mouser. However, if there is no intention to ever release these wild cats back into s natural environment, I agree live prey are not necessary. Let's admit it, cats can be lazy they are quite happy with killed butchered meat. Yummy for cats. Cats are obligate carnivores and do require meat in their daily diet, trying to force these wild cats into total vegetarians would be cruel. But the prey animals must be treated humanely also.
Probably the best rescue for lions, tigers, and other big cats in North America. A huge percentage of donations go directly to improve the facility, feed the animals, and provide all the health care and enrichment they do. Great place to donate
Big Cat Sanctuary feeds live prey (domestic rabbits) to their cats therefore I cannot support them as this is cruel and unethical. It's absolutely inhumane to throw a live prey animal into a cage with a huge predator like this.
First of all the cats claw them, bite on them before they even die, it's a slow torture process and then are ripped to shreds.
How can anyone be okay with this kind of horrific cruelty?
After visiting, I was greatly disturbed to hear of the "live feeding"...using living rabbits to try to train bobcats for re-entry into the wild. It seems unethical to me to torture and kill one animal (rabbits) , trying to save another one. Especially since experts disagree that this approach even works! I think the effort to rehab cats is noble...but this barbaric practice destroys their credibility. Many experts feel the instinct to hunt is innate and there is no need to torture rabbits, and that "retraining" is not really possible or necessary. Very disappointed.
The practice of feeding live domestic animals to carnivores is cruel, inhumane and lacks any scientific base and has no education value.
Despite thousands of animal advocates calling for an end to the brutal practices at Big Cat Rescue (a purported Sanctuary) they continue to practice this unethical protocol while displaying it widely over the internet in videos without guilt or feeling.
https://www.causes.com/actions/1673922-ask-fwcc-to-stop-condoning-the-live-feeding-domestic-rabbits-to-animals-in-wildlife-rehab
Real Sanctuaries & Ethical Rehabs do not value one animal’s life over another.
They do not disrespect the Rehab Code of Honor - "Do No Harm".
Real Sanctuaries do not practice outdated barbaric protocols such as unnecessarily LIVE FEEDING tame helpless domestic rabbits (that have no relation to a wild rabbit) to rehab Bobcats
because there are viable ethical alternatives. BCR also promotes the torture and killing of Live domestic rats & turkeys.
http://causes.worldpeacemeet.com/stoplivefeeds/letters-experts/
Real Sanctuaries do not pretend a need of teaching hunting instincts to wild animals that are
born with hard wired killing instincts that carries within itself, generation after generation. Just like a domestic cat that wreaks havoc on wildlife.
Real Sanctuaries do not feed wild predators tame animals that are not their natural food source in the wild because this practice is detrimental to the cat as far as survival, as the cats
won't find tame sitting targets (disease free) waiting to be eating in the woods.
And, they Most Certainly do not support the cruelty of breeding domestic rabbits that live in squalor while kept their entire short lives in small cages with wire floors for the purpose of taking their lives to unnecessarily feed them to Big Cats as TREATS while putting the heartless act on public display.
A true Animal Sanctuary is a place of refuge where abused, injured, abandoned or captive wild animals may live in peace and dignity for the remainder of their lives.
Please support Ethical facilities that don't torture and kill our pet rabbits or any other living being.
For The Rabbits,
Linda Sue
http://causes.worldpeacemeet.com/stoplivefeeds/the-shame-big-cat-rescue- tampa/
I have volunteered, visited and supported this true sanctuary for over ten years. A crew of dedicated and carefully trained volunteers and staff make a wonderful life for rescued wild cats. A TEN STAR EXPERIENCE for all!
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I am both a volunteer at and a donor to BCR. It's a wonderful organization focused on the rescue and care of abandoned, abused and/or retired performing wild cats. No breeding is done and every animal has lifetime care in spacious natural habitats, never concrete cages. BCR's bigger mission is to end the private ownership ans abuse of wild animals and the preservation of natural habitats and species in them. The founders take no salaries, expenses are bare bonres and focus on the proper care and feeding of our residents.
Review from Guidestar
Big cat rescue works for the animals. They rescue abused animals from all over the world and give them a chance to live in peace.
Big Cat Rescue does amazing work rescuing and rehabilitating big cats that have been kept in appalling conditions. Some of the cats they have rescued have been starving, others injured, some have never felt grass under their paws. At BCR all the cats are treated as wild animals - they have large enclosures with natural foliage - places to hide, places to play, places to rest. BCR recently added "vacation" enclosures - larger spaces the cats can take turns visiting (for a week or so) in order to have more room to roam and a change of scenery. The keepers and volunteers are very creative in designing enrichment for the animals, and is clear that the cats are adored by all who work or volunteer with the facility. All the funds donated goes to providing for the cats, it does not go into administration or staff salaries.
Have visited Big Car Rescue a couple of times and enjoyed every moment. The cats are happy, well taken care of and adored by their keepers. Sad that they have to spend the rest of their lives in enclosures but at least they have a safe and happy home now. The enclosures are huge, with lots of foliage and they even have a vacation rotation enclosure that is even bigger, with lots of room to roam, play and explore! I would recommend this place to anyone who loves animals, especially cats!
The work that is done by Big Cat Rescue is amazing. I have personally been there several times and I can tell you that the cats have huge catatats in which to roam about with trees and dens. They even have a vacation rotation now where the big cats take turns being "on vacation" where they can look up and see the sky. There are factions who would try to discredit Big Cat Rescue, but all you have to do is check them out for yourself to find the truth. I highly recommend them and will continue to support them and visit.
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I have visited BCR and found it to be a wonderful place. They have done a magnificent job with the cats they have rescued. They do not breed cats as some do for show and/or profit. Those people are the reason BCR exists. The cats are well taken care of and have a beautiful interactive environment. I support them in their efforts and look forward to visiting again.
Review from CharityNavigator
People have had the wool pulled over their eyes for a very long time and being fooled into donating lots of money to a woman that is essentially a big cat hoarder. Most of the money is going to lobbying political officials and everything else while the facility looks like a abandoned property and unsafe cages. They had 71 violations. (in one inspection). Continues to give false stories of the animals in the horrendous facility stating abuse, malnutrition and other lies. Many were her own animals bred and born there. Some were purchase by Carol herself as a pet and breeder.
She continues to Harass other places with exotic animals and even businesses who hire to have exotics for an event. Even files frivolous lawsuits.
She claims people exploit animals when she is guilty of using her animals to make money too. Everything down to having a wedding at Big Cat Rescue. But if anyone else does that, she claims abuse and exploitation and cruelty.
So, by all means, keep donating your money to the richest cat hoarder alive. (She earned a lot on the mysterious husband that disappeared) the money isn't going to the animals and that is obvious looking at the facility.
Review from Guidestar
The cages were all rusted, some had broken wires which animals could be caught on. Enclosures weren't clean,p. Required top nets by law not there. Animals exhibit signs of stress and fear such as pacing. Several of the cats looked extremely underweight. My opinion as a veterinary technician is this place should be closed and all cats rehomed so the can recover from malnutrition and high stress levels.
Was very saddened to see the living conditions for the cats that live there. Wish they would put donations into animal care, not lobbying to remove cats from other facilities. Went to visit after several of my favorite animal parks were complained about on line and seeing Big Cat Rescue asking supporters to join in bashing those facilities on line. I expected Big Cat Rescue animals to be living i giant open cages and not the small enclosures they exist in. Also do not like that they take former pets that are not big enough to kill people and stop all human contact. I think its a cruel practice.
BigCatRescue 09/29/2015
Clearly this is not a real visitor, but rather someone who hates us for our efforts to end the trade in big cats as pets, props and for their parts. They frequently make up aliases to try and look like a "Member of the Public" but they aren't fooling anyone. "Judge me by the enemies I have made." - Franklin D. Roosevelt
I loved our tour!! This place is amazing! The tour was fascinating. The cats are so well taken care of. BCR is educational also. I learned so much
Visiting Big Cat Rescue was the highlight of my recent vacation! The guided tour was very informative and interesting. It is so inspiring to see the wonderful work they do firsthand. And the cats themselves were a delight to see!
After visiting Big Cat Rescue and seeing what wonderful care is being given to these magnificent creatures, I felt compelled to donate and I do so regularly. The personnel are knowledgeable and are eager to share what they know. They are doing a great service by saving these cats from being killed or exploited. They care.
I started following this charity when I lived in PA in 2005, and the guy who lived about a mile from me kept a cougar in a 12' x 12' cage. Their advocacy to protect big cats motivated me to write to my elected officials with the hope that they would intervene by passing laws to prevent this type of animal abuse, and I continue to write to my lawmakers and sign petitions to help big cats today.
I was so excited when I moved to Tampa in 2013 and could visit BCR in person! The tour was super educational; I learned so much about the different types of big cats they had, and that the majority of them came to BCR from abusive and inhumane situations. They are doing amazing work by educating the public about roadside zoos and the dangers of exposing an unknowing public to wild animals.
They also provide rehabilitation for injured, local big cats, like the Florida Bobcat and Florida Panther and release them back into the wild when they're healthy again. Additionally, I learned that the volunteers who intern there act as surrogate moms for little cats with help from the local animal shelter in an effort to rehome the kittens once they are weaned and age-appropriate for adoption.
Will visit again this year when the weather gets cooler!
We were introduced by a relative that had a friend that was impressed. We were too. These beautiful cats are not only now safe and cared for... They are respected. They have the next best thing now, to the life they should have had. We would go back.
My husband, sister and I visited Big Cat Rescue in November 2014. The tour was extremely well thought out and organized. I have difficulty walking, and we arranged for a golf cart to make sure I would be able to see everything. Loved our visit ... plan to come again when we visit Florida again.
Big Cat Rescue in Tampa Florida is a must visit if you enjoy seein the cats being treated so beautifully. Most of the tour I felt like I was in the cage and the cats were roaming from. Great attention to detail regarding their well being, attentive trainers and beautiful enclosures so the cats are comfortable. Great learning experience too.
Highly recommend visiting this place. I have bee twice and intend to visit again. Definitely want to be a Trainer for a Day.
I was at Big Cat Rescue on Father's Day and my entire family had such a fabulous time. There were employees positioned everywhere eager to answer any questions you had. I love BCR and all it stands for.
Kathy, Tampa, Florida
My husband and I are major animal lovers. We've been visiting the Tampa area for years. We finally made it to Big Cat Rescue this year. I was looking forward to seeing all of the cats. The visit far exceeded my expectations. I was totally impressed by the wide variety of cats that we got to see. I love cats big and small. What impressed me the most was the message. Their total dedication to these cats and all cats is incredible. I learned about Big Cat Rescue's mission to end the big cat trade. I had no idea that the big cat trade was such a huge problem in our country. I was so impressed with Big Cat Rescue's treatment of their cats. The large enclosures, "vacation" area for the cats, and efforts to give these cats a happy, healthy life are inspiring to all who visit. A visit to Big Cat Rescue is educational and enjoyable. The cats are beautiful and worth the visit. The lessons learned are priceless! Thank you Big Cat Rescue for an amazing afternoon and for being such a wonderful blessing to the cats!
Was there this time last year and it was amazing
A really well run place and an obviously dedicated team of people who work there
This place is amazing! The tours are informative and interesting and you'll never see such happy big cats up close without being their lunch! ;)
I begged my husband to take me to Big Cat Rescue & he did, but thought he would be totally bored. Well, he loved it as much as I did & we have been back for a second visit! The cats stories are so sad, but now they have a happy & healthy home!
I have been to BCR twice and would go again. The work they do is important and educational. They are trying to improve the world through educating people and caring for these beautiful animals. The people working there are knowledgeable and friendly. They really care about the cats. I'm a big fan and supporter of B C R.
This place is great! Love all the big cats and how they are taken care of. The enclosures are laid out well so you can see the cats. Everyone is very knowledgeable and you can tell they love the creatures that are there.
I have visited Big Cat Rescue twice. Each time I have learned something new about what challenges they face with each new big cat they take in. They work hard to educate the world on why wild cats do not belong in your home, and to defend the rights of the ones currently be caged and in humanly treated. The individuals that work to maintain this facility are selfless and take pride in maintaining the quality of the animals lives they are entrusted with. I always remind family and friends when visiting Florida make this a must stop and it will leave a lasting impression on you!
Jenny Capwill
No one cares more about anything than Carole Baskin and her staff care about the health, welfare, safety, and security of the big cats under their care. Everyone should visit at least once.
I visited the Big Cat Rescue Centre in Tempa in 2011. I live in Europe and had followed their work online before. I was impressed at the place. The cats had large spaces to live in, it looked clean and the cats didn't seem stressed, they seemed in good condition in fact. The staff member who showed our group around explained about each cat we saw, so I learnt about inbreeding for white tiger and that some cats were kept in places away from the tour for their comfort or because they were unwell. We were able to ask many questions and the staff was knowledgeable and friendly.
If you like big cats, if you want to learn more about what is going on with captivity issues, etc. I would recommend that you visit the Big Cat Rescue Centre in Tempa. I hope that I'll have an opportunity to go back there someday.
I've been following and donating to Big Cat Rescue for that last 2 years. Hands down they are an amazing organization who go above and beyond to make sure the utmost ethical treatments of these majestic creatures is being done. They are such a voice for these poor defenseless animals and have saved so many from human atrocities and continue to spread the word on how all humans should respect life and treat our animals w/ dignity and respect.
My sister is a volunteer at Big Cat Rescue and that's how I was introduced to the sanctuary years ago. She has taken me on two tours, most recently the Keeper Tour where operant behavior of the big cats can be seen directly. I enjoy the place very much, as I've learned about the different cats and their background stories, the wonderful ways they're cared for, and the fantastic ways they're able to live a dignified, wholesome, healthy and joyful life (in spite of former abuse and neglect). Enrichment, vet care, maintenance of the nearly 70 acres of land allows the big cats to live as close to "the wild" they can be. Kudos goes to Carole Baskin, the entire staff, interns, keepers, volunteers of every level and all workers who make this sanctuary live up to its name. It's truly beautiful to see.
My granddaughter and I visited Big Cat Rescue in Tampa, FL this past spring, 2015. What a great experience! We learned how to make enrichment toys for the cats and then we visited them in their homes. The volunteers were so interesting and knowledgeable about each of the cats and their habitats, likes, and dislikes. They even knew all their names, species, and when they came to the rescue. We were so impressed that they knew so much. But most important, it was evident how much they cared for each one of the cats! The cats are so lucky to have Big Cat Rescue to take care of them.
I visited Big Cat Rescue a few years ago and saw the amazing way they care for these beautiful animals and have been a supporter ever since! It's clear to see that they TRULY love doing what they do.
My husband and I went a couple years ago and I've been wanting to go back since. If we lived closer I would have gone again multiple times. I learned so much and I loved that the animals were in a more natural setting than some other places where they have little space and concrete floors. The big cats here have lush greenery, grass, pools, etc. The animals seem happy and are treated well. They have made me understand so much about the abuse that big animals go through and how the laws need to change.
Big Cat Rescue is a favorite destination. I try to make it my first stop every time I fly in from Ohio to visit my parents. It is only 15-20 minutes from Tampa Airport and just 9 miles down the road from Busch Gardens. I am sad both snow leopards have passed on, but there are still so many beautiful big cats to admire. There are several fun ways to support this incredible nonprofit organization, including taking the tours, purchasing merchandise, "adopting" your favorite cats. If you are an Amazon shopper, you can also sign up through Amazon.smile to have a portion of your purchases go to BCR!
I have been going to BCR every year since 2002. On the tour, they give a history of a lot of the cats and why big cats should NEVER be a pet. My favourite thing is hearing about the cats' likes and dislikes. I work in a high stress customer service job and when I can't take it anymore I pull up you tube and watch the cats be cats. The stress melts away. It is a place that should be on everyone's list.
the kindness and care these wonderful people provide for animals long abused is outstanding. we need more people like this for all of our wildlife that have been kidnapped , abused and killed for profits
Had the most wonderful experience at Big Cat Rescue. The cats looked healthy and happy in their homes. I highly recommend the feeding tour as it is your best chance to see close up views of the cats. I've heard that there is a night tour only once a month... if I lived in Florida I would DEFINITELY check that out. The staff was knowledgeable and friendly. Only downside???? I couldn't do more for this wonderful place.
We went to BCR last year and it was fantastic. The staff was very helpful and informative. Thank you BCR for what you do
I have visited big cat rescue twice, and I will say, hands down this was the best experience! I've learned so much. I used to wish I would come across a cub petting event because of my love for tigers I just wanted to be able to pet one, now you couldn't pay me enough to do it. BCR is so for giving these awesome animals a great life that come from horrible people. I hope that everyone that visits, gets the same passion for saving these precious animals from private homes and zoo's. Thank you BCR for all you do.
Big Cat Rescue is a fantastic experience. We have been numerous times, seen amazing, beautiful cats up close, and learned a lot about the great work they do for abused "big cats". Highly recommended.
What a wonderful place! The tour was informative and not rushed. I love that they rescue these beautiful cats to live out their lives! I actually found this group by videos about the cats. My husband and I were in the Tampa area and went! Love the Big Cat Rescue!
This "sanctuary" is only that in the owner's eyes. They pocket 80% of the donations. The money certainly doesn't go toward animal caging or care. In November, 2014, Big Cat Rescue, Corp received 77 Violations of the Animal Welfare Act in ONE visit!! Don't believe me, read the report here complete with photos of their deplorable, rusty, weed-choked caging!!
http://www.bigcatrescuewatch.com/uploads/2/6/8/1/26816874/2014_unannounced_inspection_-_big_cat_rescue.pdf
BigCatRescue 09/29/2015
Clearly this is not a real visitor, but rather someone who hates us for our efforts to end the trade in big cats as pets, props and for their parts. They frequently make up aliases to try and look like a "Member of the Public" but they aren't fooling anyone. "Judge me by the enemies I have made." - Franklin D. Roosevelt
This was a great tour. The facility is amazing and the cats look so happy! Our tour guide was great and when I get a chance I'll do it again!!!
I stayed overnight in a cabin there many years ago when you could interact with a few of the smaller cats. I enjoyed my visit then, and donated money, which I now regret. I have watched stories about the cats evolve over the years since, many of them conflicting. I know some of them had to be out-and-out lies because two stories that contradict each other cannot both be true. I have watched other facilities and individuals get trashed online by the CEO, CFO, and supporters, few of whom deserved the misleading and sometimes vicious comments that were made. Anyone who speaks out against their smear campaigns is in danger of being added to their 911 Animal Abuse website, which was once just another page within the BCR site itself. There are many other deserving sanctuaries that could use your help, that will use your donations to upgrade their facilities as well as feed the animals. In recent photos, I have seen the same flimsy wire cages that were there 15 years ago, still in use, only now getting corroded and rusty. Yet somehow other sanctuaries that take in far less money manage to do better than that. For more information, check out this link: http://www.bigcatrescuewatch.com (PS - I was NOT paid to write this review. At one time, BCR actually paid people for positive reviews, which I find to be a despicable practice. Beware, there are many other companies that do this!)
BigCatRescue 09/29/2015
These people who petted cats just can't get over the fact that it sends the wrong message and move forward. "Judge me by the enemies I have made." - Franklin D. Roosevelt
I absolutely love Big Cat Rescue and everything they stand for! We did the Big Cat Walkabout on Father's day. The cats are so well cared for and gorgeous. They are truly deserving of accolades.
Being familiar with a few animal rescues and wildlife rehabilitation facilities, I must say that I'm most positively impressed with Big Cat Rescue. They have the safety and well being of both their cats, volunteers and visitors very well handled. I found the way that the facility was run extremely ethical. Taking the tour was one of the highlights of my trip to the area.
I live in Massachusetts and visited Tampa the one thing I had to do before leaving was visit this place, I have to say the best, most educational, caring, and exciting environment to visit . This should be without a doubt a must to do on your list if you are ever in the Tampa area, I went to visit again in Feb, but sadly you need to reserve, I was so upset not to be able to experience it again, but one day I shall be back. Such beautiful animals, I wanted to stay all day.
My 3 visits to Big Cat Rescue were just wonderful - very educational in learning the plight of exotic cats. The staff were well informed, the animals looked healthy and happy. Big Cat continues to improve care and habitat of these cats and continue to make room for others in need of rescue.
EVERYTHING Big Cat Rescue does is for the betterment and well being of the animals. Their cats have such heart breaking tales and Big Cat Rescue does everything in their power to educate and inspire people to be more compassionate. Their facility is beautiful and a wonderful place for abused, mistreated, and abandoned cats to live their lives. And the cats truly look happy!!
My family and I went on a tour at the end of Aug while we were on vacation. We thoroughly enjoyed it. We loved seeing how large the enclosures are that house the big cats. They even have a special huge enclosure that the cats take turns using while they are on "vacation". It was so nice to see a wnderful facility and staff that cared. This tour was a highlight of our vacation.
An educational visit for anyone in the Tampa area. They provide a crucial service for big cats. I'm a visitor and donor, and my friends in conservation and animal care share my respect and appreciation for Big Cat Rescue.
We have been down here in Clearwater for over a year now. My daughter came down last December and found Big Cat Rescue and we have been followers since. We visit and buy their products often knowing that revenues generated help support their good works. Right now I am looking at a screensaver of Raindance a bobcat resident that had passed earlier this year. This organization has made me more aware of how critical it is to voice your opinion on big cats and wolves in the US. We also follow them on Facebook which provides daily updates on current residents with pictures and video with staff interactions.
Dan and Deb Michaud Clearwater FL
I love this place!! they treat the big cats with so much respect and care and reverence and they seem wholly committed to prioritizing the cats' needs and wants .This place is probably the closest any of the cats there will get to a "life in the wild" as most of them are rescued cats from abusive circumstances and need special care. The grounds are well kept, beautiful and lush and the cats seem at peace there. Please support Big Cat Rescue!
Big Cat Rescue has the happiest cats in the USA. The enclosures are larger and more enriched than in most zoos. The vacation area is genius. We encourage all visitors to the Tampa area to visit.
Great tour, beautiful, beautiful cats. The most important thing is what I learned about big cats in captivity and awareness of the need for big cats to have political advocates. I have become much more active in contacting my legislators regarding laws protecting big cats. They need more voices!
Visited Big Cat Rescue with my grandchildren. Wonderful experience seeing how the animals are cared for, and the freedom the animals enjoy, despite being in captivity. Recommend a visit and your support of a sanctuary which truly is a sanctuary.
I really enjoyed my visit. The children a brought also lived it. The cats are taken such good care of and it was so informative.
We have visited Big Cat Rescue many times and have always enjoyed seeing the big cats. The tour guides are extremely well educated about each cat. You will not only get to watch some gorgeous lions and tigers in action (or not!), but also many other breeds of smaller cats. If you visit Tampa, you must visit Big Cat Rescue. You will not be disappointed!
Our visit was amazing! A very plain exterior lowered our expectations, but when we were escorted inside the compound on our tour, we were mesmerized by the surroundings, the great care taken to provide the best natural environment for all the cats, and the unbounded enthusiasm and great knowledge of all the employees. Big Cat Rescue is a superb and very worthy non-profit!
I went to Big Cat Rescue during a last-minute vacation to Florida in Nov. 2014; I'd never heard of BCR before then. I've volunteered regularly with companion animal shelters, but had never experienced anything like BCR before. The facility is amazing. The care and respect that each animal receives is apparent from the moment you start the tour. I even became a little over-zealous at the end of the tour, and my normally frugal self spent over $200 in their gift shop (I should note that they have high-quality items).
Now I watch their videos and read about them every day on their website and on facebook. I cheer when another cat is rescued; I laugh at the cats' antics on video; I watch in awe as the volunteers and keepers remain calm just 3 feet from a roaring tiger.
Ever since my visit I've known where my next vacation will be - Tampa, to see the big cats again!
This was a great way to spend part of our vacation. Tours are alot of fun and educational. It is amazing what Big Cat Rescue has done for these beautiful animals. The enclosures are huge with lots of enrichment opportunities for the cats. They are fascinating to watch and they are being very well care for by the amazing staff at Big Cat Rescue. It is obvious they care by the work they do.
BCR is an amazing rescue. They not only take great care of their rescues, they also educate and work to eradicate animal abuse worldwide. Carole and her crew are absolutely incredible. They still manage to find the time to give a great tour.
I've been to Big Cat Rescue. Both visits were different and educational. The respect and love that Big Cat Rescue has for their cats is amazing. I've learned much about the cats and what it does to the different species when they are owned privately. I have a great respect for Big Cat and will continue to support them.
I haven't been to the rescue but anyone who lovingly, selflessly saves animals that others have put in harms way should be helped and kept around as well.
My family and I went to Big Cat Rescue a few months ago. It was a wonderful experience. We enjoyed our tour and especially enjoyed the information about the cats, feeding and were impressed with the quality of care for all of the animals there.
I visited the end of august 2015. Had a wonderful warm and heartfelt tour of alot of the cats. Id like to return soon to see more of them. The cats are cared for there better then most people by a very dedicated staff. If you like cats you should visit big cat rescue.
I have been to BCR quite a few times over the years that I have lived in Tampa. I have never once had a bad experience. The staff are always so nice and helpful .
We visited Big Cat Rescue on a recent visit to Florida when our girls decided they would rather go there than Disney world. They were not disappointed. It was wonderful to see the cats being themselves, well cared for and happy. We have been following BCR ever since.
We went on the kids tour. The tour guides were very knowledgeable and great at interacting with the kids and keep them engaged.
My friends and I visited BCR last November after the Celtic Thunder Cruise. We were from Florida, South Carolina, Pennsyvania and Australia. It was a cool misty morning and the cats were watching us from beneath fronds and from the shelter of their dens. The guide was awesome, personable and very knowledgeable. We learned so much and vowed to apply our new knowledge to help change the way big cats are treated. We all bought a ton of stuff in the gift store which helps the cats at BCR. I hope that eventually big cats won't need rescue but until then, thank goodness for Big Cat Rescue!
Big Cat Rescue continues to educate the public about the reality of owning a big cat. Their dedication to education and public awareness is awesome! They really do care about the cats.
We went on the child friendly tour on July 4th. What an amazing way to teach your children about humane treatment of these beautiful creatures!
We did a tour of BigCat Rescue two years ago and it was wonderful! I was so impressed with how the owners managed the cats so that noone comes into contact with them except the owners and the vets. This prevents any problems that could occur, and put the animals at any risk of being destroyed. I also loved the story of how they got started, by saving a littler of Bob Cat Kittens that were being sold at auction and potentially going to a furrier! The owners werent even looking to save cats at that time, they were looking for grazing animals to keep the property tidy! They have really got this preservation down to a science and I tell everyone I can about the facility and that it is a must see! The tour guides had the story behind each and every rescue and it was so interesting and educational. My 14 year old son (now 16) loved the whole tour and was really engaged. Thanks to BigCat Rescue for all that they do!
We visited Big Cat Rescue in June 2014. There were about 15 of us and we had a great time. The employees are all very knowledgeable and the cats appeared to be very well taken care of. They also had a golf cart for my granddaughter to ride on since she has mobility issues. My only complaint was that there wasn't enough time to see ALL of the cats! I will definitely go there again when I get back to that area.
We had a wonderful private tour of Big Cat Rescue during our visit to the Tampa Bay area in August 2014. Our daughter was too young to go on the general tour, so we enjoyed the personal attention of our guide who made our tour fun as well as informative. She made sure to include as many of our favourite cats as possible (we have followed Big Cat Rescue on Youtube for a few years now) whilst giving them the peace and respect they deserve. Our eyes were certainly opened as to what goes on in the world with regard to big cats and we continue to support this sanctuary.
I have traveled from California to Tampa, Florida specifically to visit Big Cat Rescue twice. I learned about BCR from a race director of Calico Racing who donates to BCR. It is a magnificent facility to visit. The staff & volunteers are courteous, knowledgable, & fun to listen to. The cats, big & small, are very well taken care of. As a guest, you visit an amazing variety of cats & some other catlike beings - my brother fell in love with Banjo, a binterung who has passed away. The facility is clean & well maintained - there's a small gift shop as well. I went on the general tour and feeding tour - both are well worth the visit. Instead of going to a zoo, where the animals are depressed & hopeless, visit BCR instead - help the cats, learn a lot about them & the horrors of the exotic cat trade, & support a worthwhile cause.
We have visited on three occasions. They do fantastic work and really care for their cats. They have a huge vacation rotation habitat that the cats get to go to so that they can see the sky without bars. Love Big Cat Rescue keep up the good work.
I have personally been to the rescue on several occasions with friends and family on the various tours that they offer. I love the work that is done here and by the staff. They are an amazing group.
Thank you for taking such good care and giving an environment adapted to all of your friends at Big Cat Rescue.
I am from Rhode Island and two cats were rescued from here by Big Cat Rescue, Narla and Max. I have visited
twice to see how they were doing. They are both thriving and are fortunate to be there. Whenever I have the opportunity I encourage friends and family to visit any time they are in the Tampa area. Keep up the good work.
I spendt one day at the Big Cat Rescue in Tampa almost 5 years ago, and it was a day that still lingers with me. I can still hear the lions roar, from one end of the park to the other. The visit gave me knowledge that I happily spread to others. I was able to stop a group of people from going to pet tiger cubs in Bangkok Zoo, based on the knowledge I got from BCR. Also I saw that the big cats were being treated horribly in this Zoo.
We had a wonderful time on our tour seeing a few animals we had never seen before like the Sand Cats. The employees were knowledgeable and really nice. The exhibit areas were nice and the animals seemed very well cared for. It's a great place to visit!!
Had such a great at the Big Cat Rescue in May of 2015!! Thank you to all your hardworking and caring volunteers. All those kitties are in a loving environment.
actually, i am a former volunteer, only left because of distance of commute. I volunteered for 2+ years. Big Cat Rescue does an amazing job not only rescuing big cats but providing education to the public on what a true sanctuary is and how they can support and protect cats. They also provide support to other non-profits and all in all this is one of the most effective organizations i have ever been a part of.
My young daughter and I went on a Keepers tour last year. It was amazing and eye opening. I can honestly say that it changed the way I view how we treat animals. Big Cat Rescue is caring, compassionate, and working tirelessly to stop the exploitation of these animals. Bravo!
BCR is a paradise for this big cats! As a feline lover I had the opportunity to visit them and saw how much love and effort they put on these "babies". They make sure that these big cats have a better life that most of them were having!!! If there were more stars I would have given them to BCR! They truly make a difference and try to educate us along the way!
We loved both our visits there, once in 2011 and again last year. Staff were very knowledgeable and it is clear they care deeply for the cats.
Hope to go back next year!
My husband and I toured and volunteered at Big Cat Rescue on our honeymoon trip. It was magical and inspiring. They do great work there and we hope to bring or kids there so they can experience it too.
Fantastic work they all do for the Cats!!! well known and well trusted.. they care for these animals as if they were there own babies with care and respect!!! Keep up the good work!!!
I have been across the state to visit Big Cat Rescue a couple of times already and hope to go on one of their feeding tours soon. This is a wonderful rescue group that takes great care of these beautiful animals that were not well cared for before they got to Big Cat Rescue. They educate their visitors about the various cats as well as bringing joy to those of us who visit the cats. I was so impressed with them that I now donate to them every time I make a purchase from Amazon Smile through Amazon's donation program.
The first time I went on a tour I learned so much. I never knew how many different varieties of cats there are. BCR takes such great care of the cats, and almost anything else that lands there way!
I visited big cat rescue, before they changed their name and I had the greatest time. I got to see Shere Kahn, the tiger, now deceased. He was truly an awesome sight. While passing Sabre's enclosure, he lunged at me, needless to say, scaring the shi* out of me but the keepers told me that I am lucky he chose me, he only jumps at one visitor per tour. It was truly awe inspiring to be in the mere presence of these glorious animals. I will be going back soon, I LOVE BIG CATS!!! I give them an A++
We first visted Big Cat Rescue when it was Wildlife on Easy Street -- quite a few years back now. We were lucky enough to spend a night there (which isn't possible now, sadly) and it was an unforgettable experience. Now we vidit whenever we are in Florida. And we have yet to be disappointed. The staff are very knowledgable and friendly, and it's a joy to see the animals so happy and healthy.
I had the pleasure of going to the Big Cat Rescue on our trip to Florida. I was certainly amazed by the rescue stories of each and everyone of the big cats. I love the fact that the volunteers give such love and care to each one of them. I look forward to going back to visit on my next trip.
Sincerely,
Becky Stewart
Charlestown, RI
I had seen the YouTube videos from Big Cat Rescue and was intrigued with the group and the facility. When some friends and I decided to vacation in the area, I made my going contingent on the group visiting Big Cat Rescue with me. We scheduled a regular tour and, after doing some research we unanimously decided to switch to the Feeding Tour. What a great decision! The facility was great, the animals majestic, and the volunteer staff was amazing! It exceeded my expectations. I was so happy with what I saw...not just the cats, but the entire operation, what they are doing, the purpose of it and how they get it done. As cheesey as it sounds, I was moved to tears quite unexpectedly by the experience. All of my companions still talk about the experience in glowing terms several years later.
I have stayed in contact from afar via newsletters, participation in sharing information provided by Big Cat Rescue, supporting petitions and legislation, and occasional purchases or small donations.
Great organization with a very important mission. Don't miss the opportunity to get involved in whatever way works best for you!
Back in 2012 I flew from South America to the US and the most important "to do" in my schedule was to visit Big Cat Rescue, a place some time before a friend had talked to me about. Arrived one day late to take the last tour and was first in line the day after . If was not only worthy. It was touching and a beautiful experience to be close to very caring environment where the cats enjoy their "retirement" after a tough life. From the tiny sand cat, the caracals and bobcats and to the big lions, tigers and black panther, I keep Big Cat Rescue and every rescue story in my memory, my heart and in my photograph records. Want and hope to go back one day.
I visited Big Cat Rescue last October. The facilities were clean and large and the enclosures were designed to give the Cats a mixture of sun and shade with plenty of local plants and trees. They were interesting shapes, with twists and turns to give the Cats some semblance of space. I like the fact that the Cats "homes" were rotated on a regular basis to add more interest to their lives, and they are regularly given enrichment treats. The keepers were very well informed and answered all our questions. Well done Big Cat Rescue!
WCH goes above and beyond to help these animals live a full and *free* life. Many of these animals came from horrific living condition yet WCH has always done whatever had been needed to get these magnificent animals whatever they need. I have volunteered for a wild animal rescue and release facility her in AZ and I know first hand the love, the heartbreak and the back breaking work that is involved.
I've been to Big Cat Rescue a couple of times, and follow their Facebook page. In my opinion, this is how an animal sanctuary should be. Should these animals be free in their natural habitats experiencing life as they were born to? Yes, but most of these animals have been rescued from less than ideal, and natural, situations for them. The proprietors and volunteers of this sanctuary do all they can to make the lives of these cats as comfortable and stimulating as possible. They've been able to design a large "vacation" rotation, so the larger cats have several acres to roam. All of the enclosures are designed with each of the specific cat's needs in mind. I love to go and visit these beautiful animals, see them relaxed and not filled with anxiety pacing around a too small enclosure. I highly recommend for all to go out and see these wonderful cats, and tell the staff thank you for the contributions they have made to these cat's lives.
I've been on Big Cat Rescue tours twice. My first visit was a 1-1/2 hour day tour last year, during which I was educated on the plight of big cats and what I could do to help. I went back this year on Father's Day to their Wildcat Walkabout which was more of a "go at your own pace" tour without an official guide, though there were plenty of people available to answer questions and they have a free app with each cat's story. I enjoyed both tours immensely.
The cats are gorgeous and relaxed, and the sanctuary is beautiful, in a natural Florida setting. Just remember this is Tampa and, even with lots of trees on the property, it is HOT during the summer. BCR has a great social media presence as well, posting frequent videos of happenings around the sanctuary, as well as updates on all the cats. I'm so impressed by how dedicated BCR's staff, interns and volunteers are to the well-being of these majestic animals. They're a wonderful charity and well worth a look!
I'm from San Francisco. I had heard of BigCatRescue several years ago and joined up. Had to do with them not touching them, or even being in the same cage as them. Anyway, I donated and got a brick with my name on it. I donated again the next year, and got a fence plaque for my boy, Andre (tiger). So this year, I had a little extra money, and decide to fly 3000 miles to visit and friend in Fort Myers, and, oh yeah, a trip up to Tampa to visit BigCatRescue. Needless to say, it was the best trip I've ever taken. Jut to see these big cats relaxing, without a single worry of being hunted, and being kept separated in their wide-open enclosures, was truly awesome. So I donated again, as did my friend. Truly worth it. The fact that I go by Tiger Claw LaFever makes that much more cool.
A great educational tour. The staff is knowledgeable. The cats are well cared for. I have visited twice and will be returning next time I am in Tampa.
My husband and I went to Big Cat Rescue on Labor Day weekend a year or two ago. We really enjoyed learning about the big cats, how they are in danger of being abused across the world and what we can do about it. The cats themselves were very hot, but beautiful. It was great to see them safe and well-cared for. I would definitely go again.
I first started touring Big Cat Rescue when it Wildlife on Easy Street and to see what it has grown into is amazing. The facilities and the love and care shown to these cats is heartwarming and inspirational. If you want the opportunity to marvel at these magnificent animals in a facility that neither exploits them nor neglects them this is the place. They are also doing very important work to change the laws and hearts and minds of people concerning the exploitation and abuse of exotic animals world wide. So, if you want a wonderful experience amidst beautiful animals head to Tampa and Big Cat Rescue.
I am from NH, I visited family in FL when my twins were just 6mo old. I pre-planned my tour to take place before coming back home from vacation, and when the day FINALLY arrived to go to BCR I was beyond excited. Sad news, it started raining so badly...the paths got too muddy for tours. I was DEVASTATED! I literally cried almost all the way back to NH. BCR gave refunds to all the tourist, but I refused to take mine back, I was there to support the Big CATS, not my viewing pleasure. I made some purchases in the gift shop to additionally help BCR and sorely went away. **** but wait!! ALMOST 2.5 years later, I returned to FL, to see family once again with my now almost 3 yro twins...and I did get to go on tour. I will never forget it as long as I live. BCR is such a saving grace for these majestic cats. BCR is not only attentive to their residents but very attentive to tourist as well. A couple times I was annoyed at first that I missed a couple photo opportunities, but later realized that the staff at BCR is just being incredibly S.A.F.E. for everyone and care for all, 2 legged or 4. This sanctuary far exceeded my expectations, from the facility itself, to the treatment of tourist, safety policies, programs and opportunities they present for volunteers...its just beyond obvious how happy and comfortable the CATS are,,,, It was amazing to be able to be so close to these Cats and feel the ground shake as they run past; all the while feeling secure and safe. I commend BCR for their efforts, and policies. My twins are now 8.5 yrs old and to this day have never been to a circus, Sigfreid & Roy, or Barnem&Bailey nor do they want to. (we will not enable that sort of treatment to animals). They belong in the wild, or at places such as BCR. Kenny is our favorite white tiger. He is not a resident of BCR, but we help raise awareness of the White Tiger trade by what we learned of him, from BCR. Freckles the Liger although she was grumpy...was one of my personal favorite.(RIP-Freckles), as well as Bella Zazu & Cameron, and #1 ultimate favorite....TJ! that handsome hunk was the ground shaker.
I was blessed to visit and tour Big Cat Rescue in Tampa, FL this past spring. From my visit I learned so much about the plight of the big cat species, how they are often exploited and abused by roadside carnivals and attractions. From my tour of BCR I learned of the steps that they were taking to free these magnificent creatures of their bondage and abuse. I Found these rescue cats to be well cared for, as well as nourished and stimulated daily. I have only positive things to say of the volunteers, staff and keepers, as well as the hospitals and veterinary care that they receive.
Big Cats is truly a great experience. The surroundings are very clean and the cats are in big, well maintained areas. We try to get to Big Cats every time we are in Tampa.
Took a day tour at this facility, and it is so very clear that they have their animals well-being at the center of their mission. A beautiful, clean facility in the warm, humid suburbs of Tampa, FL - you would never guess there was so much there. We learned a lot about animal behavior and how to be advocates for the responsible treatment of big cats. We will definitely go back again and try the night tour.
I visited Big Cat Rescue in January 2014. I had been following Big Cat on Facebook and I could not wait to visit when we were in the area visiting family. I brought my Mother, Sister and Daughter...ages ranging from 76-11. We were all drawn in by the stories of how the cats had arrived and saddened when learning of other issues facing Big Cats. We plan to visit again on our next trip to Tampa. This time we want to take part in one of the enrichment programs.
We visited BCR several years ago. I have always loved big cats. I was so excited for the oppurtunity to see them up close. Our visit exceded any expectation I had. The knowledge the staff had was amazing. I learned so much about the cats themselves and conservation and abuse of big cats. I can't wait untill I get to visit again.
We have toured BCR many times. Each time I'm truly impressed by the dedication and love shown by the staff toward these cats. The education they provide to the public and the wonderful lives these great animals is amazing. The cats themselves are obviously happy. None of the cats are bred. They're retired.
It's obvious from the moment you reach the plain dirt parking lot to the view of the modest gift shop to the waiting area who the real bosses are. The cats are in charge. Big cats, small cats and tiny cats are all here. The "cat-a-tats" they live in a large with fun things to do. The Canada Lynx even have an air conditioned den to relax in. These homes are kept scrupulously clean by the many volunteers and interns.
All the big cats have pools with fresh water circulating. They get "enrichment". That's treats, frozen bloodcicles and, on Thanksgiving, turkeys. They also enjoy their toys. Cardboard boxes, paper leprechauns in March to tear up. To watch a tiger play with a ball like a giant kitten is something everyone should see.
Their "vacation rotation" is huge with a pond, fields to run in, trees and dens. Places to run around, climb atop and hide under. There's one for the big cats and one for the smaller guys. When the cats move through the compound, they do so through wire tunnels that are connected to the cat-a-tats. There's no trauma or tension as they stroll leisurely to their destination.
All in all, this place is something to see. You can also view their videos on Youtube and visit their website bigcatrescue.org. I'm just happy to have this place to express my appreciation for this fine organization.
We've visited BCR twice and just can't get enough of it! Feeding Tour this winter when we return to Florida...can't wait!! Seeing the big cats and learning more about them is only part of the good they do; education and advocating for the cats is priceless. I also look forward to seeing the daily FB posts and being given the opportunity to "do something" by signing petitions and writing letters on important issues.
We have done both the Keeper's Tour and the Feeding Tour, and both were wonderful! Highly recommend visiting BCR.
To me, Big Cat Rescue has two arms. They speak out for the protection of cats from both a conservatory and political standpoint. The other is their awesome facility. The staff is well trained and the facility is excellent. Along the tour, the staff talks to you about the individual animals and how they were rescued as well as related rescue efforts. They have a large variety of cats, some I had never even seen or heard of before. Definitely schedule a visit, and if you can, donate to their great cause!
What an incredible group of people whose dedication to the animals in their care and the education of the public is unparalleled! It really says something that their mission is to one day make the need for such facilities obsolete. The staff and volunteers work tirelessly to improve the situations of not only the residents of the Big Cat Rescue, but also those elsewhere in the country; actively petitioning on State and Federal levels to advocate for big cats and against those who would seek to exploit them. Between community outreach programs and an active social media presence, they have made great strides and it is refreshing to see how their efforts to educate and act have made such a difference already.
Visited in 2013 with 7,8 and 15 year old. Staff were extremely friendly and knowledgable, cats well looked after and thought that the tour was educational as well as fun for the kids' :)
Big Cat Rescue is amazing. I have visited there and the cats are so relaxed, their settings are so natural. Most started life in horrible conditions. You can feel the caring nature of the place as you talk to the staff, the volunteers and tour.
My husband and I visited BCR last year and LOVED it! The animals were gorgeous and seemed very content. During our tour we heard stories of how they came to live at BCR. Some were sad but knowing they are well cared for now is a blessing. I have done volunteer work at a big cat rescue facility and I know how hard the work can be caring for these fabulous creatures. Kudos to the folks at BCR for their tireless efforts in loving and caring for the animals in need. Keep up the great work! Looking forward to visiting again one day. R. Farmer
I have visited Big Cat Rescue 3 times now. Absolutely love the place. But more importantly, I love the education they do. I've learned so much about big cats and the plight of those in captivity as a result of subscribing to the BCR YouTube channel and watching the videos. I love that they help student interns who are looking for careers in animal care. I love that they have an on-site hospital and volunteer vets to care for the cats. Big Cat Rescue is not a zoo, and it's not for little children. When I visit there, I look for some of my favorites like Nikita Lioness, Cameron, Zabu, and Joseph Lion (love to hear him roar!). Truly, if you visit the Tampa area (or are lucky enough to live there), please support Big Cat Rescue so the good people there can continue their good work.
My Husband and I did the tour at BCR about 5 years ago, the informational walking tour was very enlightening! We enjoyed it so much we will be returning this coming Nov, we have already purchased our tickets for the feeding tour and can't wait!
We spent the day at Big Cat Rescue and it was wonderful. From the informative video as an introduction to the extensive walking tour and question and answer at the end it was geared to education and awareness. The big cats are kept in such large beautiful enclosures that you may not see some of them but for the most part they were interested in coming to the fence to see "the people". You can tell that they are well looked after and that the animals are important here. No "photo ops" with the tigers here - they are not used / handled in any way for profit. They are treated with respect and have enrichment activities to keep them active. We loved the whole experience. Thank heavens for the volunteers here. We will visit again for sure.
I think it's amazing what they do! Big felines deserve to have safe and happy lives, and I applaud the people brave enough to take care of them.
I have visited Big Cat Rescue four times the last ten years. In fact, it's the "must do" activity when we have company. Considering that we live in the land of theme parks, it says a lot that we'd rather take friends to Big Cat Rescue.
I have done the regular tours, keeper tour, and feeder tour. I hope to do a nighttime tour some day. The care of the cats is exceptional and the facility is well maintained.
I highly recommend that you check them out the next time you're in the area. If you love animals, you will live BCR.
I have been on several tours at Big Cat Rescue - regular tours, "backstage" tours (two special events held for animal rescues), and the two-hour Keeper Tour. BCR volunteers take you on a guided tour through the grounds, providing personal backgrounds on every cat, and it's clear how much they love and care for these cats and how much work is needed to keep the aging population healthy and happy. All of the friends I have taken to BCR tours have fallen in love with these beautiful animals. If you love big cats, I highly recommend the keeper tour, where you learn how they are fed and medicated, and you get to create some "enrichment" toys and watch the keepers deliver them to the cats. When you go, I recommend you wear closed-toed shoes (most of the paths are dirt) and that you choose a morning tour (while the paths are shaded by trees, it's still Florida).
I visited Big Cat Rescue in June 2015 and prior had been following them on Facebook for over a year. I was amazed at the facility. The various enclosure designs are perfect for each cat they house. And as you walk through to view these noble animals, you can sense their happiness. Some lay comfortably watching you go by, others entertain themselves with toys especially for them. The staff is fantastic too. Very knowledgeable and personable. I plan on going back anytime I'm in the Tampa area. A very worth while experience for a person of any age.
We went to Big Cat Rescue a few years ago, because we knew, before hand, that it was supposed to be a wonderful place for the animals, as opposed to being a great place to see big cats. We were amazed at what we saw and how the staff interacted with the animals, with the emphasis on the animals and educating us about them. Zoos are about profit first, the animals second. At Big Cat Rescue, it's about the animals first. I follow them on Facebook, and I can see how much the staff, etc. are so caring of these amazing animals. And, how much hard work they do to keep them healthy, enriched, and happy. Way to go Big Cat Rescue, and thank you VERY MUCH for what you're doing.
Sincerely and respectfully,
Spencer
I have been to the Big Cat Rescue twice and I had a great time each visit. The first time I visited by myself and the next visit I brought my whole family. The tour guides were very knowledgeable about the facility and every cat we saw. The organization brought to light situations that these cats are in that I had no idea existed. I strongly encourage anyone that visits Tampa area to visit the Big Cat Rescue.
Let's see where should I start I have never visited the big cat rescue but i have learned a lot from there site and I like to say being well educated in wild cats whether they are small or big I now know that wild animals like these are not pets nor should they be in anyway or even in cages or abused in any way. So keep up the good work and keep the public educated on animals like these.
Wonder big cat sanctuary in Tampa. Knowledgeable and dedicated staff and volunteers conduct guided tours of the sanctuary. They excel in educating visitors on why the animals are in a sanctuary. You leave the sanctuary filled with desire to make the world a better place for not only wildcats but all animals!
We visited Big Cat Rescue and were very impressed with the cats and their stories. I appluad them for rescuing these cats from horrible situations and giving them a wonderful home with room to roam on grass, enrichment treats and medical care.
I've taken 2 tours at Big Cat Rescue and enjoyed them both! I love seeing all the cats and hearing the stories about how they came to reside at Big Cat Rescue. The staff and volunteers are very nice and knowledgeable. They are doing wonderful things for these cats! Great place to visit! I would highly recommend it!
I planned a vacation to Tampa with my mom last year specifically so we could visit BCR. Their facilities are top-notch. They take such good care of their animals - I love the enrichment they do with the cats and all the fun videos that result! Our trip was very educational and changed the way I thought about circuses and zoos. I can't wait to visit again soon!!
I love BCR! They really show how much they care, not only for their cats, but for the wellbeing of all wild cats. The tour was very fun and informative, and the cats look happy and well taken care of. I will definitely be visiting again.
Big Cat Rescue is such a special place! We got to see so many varieties of cats, very close and we were educated in a great way to the endangered species and the abuse or neglect of the wrong people previously thinking these cats were pets. I would recommend Big Cat Rescue to anyone who respects animals.
I took an after school program for a tour of the facility. The guide was knowledgeable and friendly. The facilities are kid friendly. The cats are healthy looking and beautiful. I purchased tickets for my son and his girlfriend. They truly enjoyed it. Thank you for the work and education.
i went to the big cat rescue in July this year , i was excited to see the lions and tigers as i have never seen them close , the tour started good . we were shown bobcats , panthers etc
unfortunately we were not able to see the stars of the place zabu and Cameroon
but overall very nice place
will visit again
I visited BCR on previous trip to Tampa area and cant wait to return. Great facility, informative & beautifully cared for cats
TOP NOTCH! Animals are well cared for PEOPLECARE
Previous Stories
I visited Big Cat Rescue back in 2010 and we came away a changed family. Seeing these gorgeous cats, up close (4' away, safely caged beyond anyone's reach) and personal, hearing each of their stories whether they were "housepets" (BAD idea), retired from shows/circuses, or attempted to be rehabbed, but just couldn't make it in the wild, they ALL enjoy spacious cat-a-tats...not cages, mind you, but LARGE enclosures that are as close to what their natural habitat would have been in the wild. (They even have what they call a "vacation rotation" which is over 2 acres of fenced area with trees, lakes, sprinklers and different "enrichment" objects to keep the cats from being bored. Each cat/s take a two week vacation in an area where they can really run full speed ahead..and they love it. There's a smaller vacation rotation planned for the smaller cats.
They received the BEST in medical care...and animals are never euthanized unless it's the best thing for the cat...illness, injury, something that modern medicine just cannot heal.
Since my trip in 2010, I've kept up with BCR on a daily basis, and was even the lucky winner of an Animal Lover's Vacation they give away annually. If you visit their website, you can see where to register and I strongly advise you to do so! My "Animal Lover's Vacation" is set up in just a few weeks, and while I know that a lot has changed at the sanctuary (all for the better)...some cats have passed away, most due to extremely old age, there are others there I've never seen. To say that this vacation is a trip of a lifetime is an understatement. BUT..winner of the free vacation or not, if you are ever in the Tampa area Big Cat Rescue is somewhere you definitely want to visit while you're there.
You will never see such beautiful animals up close, the sound of a cougar lying on his back at his fencline purring at you...the talktive Ocelots...the Bobcats that make you feel so welcome, and the tiny Sand Cats...you'll learn about each animal and why they are there, tour the beautifully kept grounds, and even bet you come out of the gift shop with a souviner or three.
Check out all the available tours (and don't forget to registerfor that free vacation..given away each March) at www.bigcatrescue.org !
BCR is an amazing sanctuary! It is beautiful, clean and the cats are all extremely well cared for. We found it by accident when we were vacationing in Florida in 2006 and we have supported them ever since through donations and spreading their message through social media.
I had a wonderful visit to this rescue site. The property was exceptionally clean and well-maintained, the staff were knowledgeable and friendly, and the enclosures were really impressive - large, well-landscaped, and full of things for the animals to do and enjoy. I particularly liked the commemorative plaques for donors and for animals who had passed on. I would highly recommend this site for a visit. You will not regret it. PS - I was SO THRILLED to see Cameron and Zabu. They are completely my favorites!!
I visited big cat Rescue on July 3rd. This was the highlight of my trip to Florida. I had been eagerly waiting to see Zabu, Cameron, Nikita, Alex, Kalyani, Andre, TJ and Amanda. The tour started well on time we were all grouped and before the tour began we were given instructions for our safety and comfort as well as the comfort of the beautiful wild residents. The instructors were patient and attentive and were cautious that the trip was educational as well as entertaining as we heard short introductions about each cat. I had the opportunity to see Alex closely and Sundari as they came out of their caves and strolled majestically. Zabu and Cameron were happy hiding and Nikita was busy taking her nap. All the cats big and small at the rescue centre looked very healthy and they had large enclosures so with both sufficient shade and sunshine and their enclosures also had big balls for them to play with so they have good physical exercise. As Amanda was recovering from surgery I enquired about her and the tour guide was polite enough to give me updates. All in all a very good experience.
I visited Big Cat Rescue when I visited my son in Florida. It really has become my most favorite place to visit. All of the cats looked very happy and very well taken care of. I have never been a fan of zoo's but this place is so very different. The big cats were very relaxed as we walked through a trail to see them in their huge enclosures, I love that rescued cats were very relaxed, clean and didn't seem to mind the visitors. I high recommend visiting if you're in Florida. I can't wait to visit again!
I visited the rescue a year ago and it changed the way I look at zoos, circuses, and big cats in general. The work these people do to pick up after other careless humans is amazing! Please support by visiting and creating awareness.
Big Cat Rescue, one of the world’s largest accredited sanctuaries for exotic cats, is a leading advocate in ending the abuse of captive big cats and saving wild cats from extinction. They are home to about 80 lions, tigers, bobcats, cougars, servals and other species most of whom have been abandoned, abused, orphaned, saved from being turned into fur coats, or retired from performing acts.The non-profit organization is: Accredited by the Global Federation of Sanctuaries, Certified by Independent Charities of America as a “Best in America Charity”, Member of the World Society for Protection of Animals, Rated 4 Stars by Charity Navigator (their highest rating) and has one of the highest scores of any animal based charity, Part of a global coalition including HSUS, IFAW, WWF, GFAS, Born Free and other animal protection groups who are working together to end big cat abuse.
This is an amazing facility. They have rescued a number of cats that were in undesirable facilities or injured or ill, and brought them to this spacious facility. I have visited 3 times. The staff and volunteers are very dedicated to their roles and it is evident that they love what they do, and they love the cats! The cats have lots of space to roam and toys to play with; some of them have companions to play with. They are seen regular by veterinarians. It's a great place to bring your family to appreciate how a well-run non-profit can function. If you love cats, you'll leave with a very positive feeling about Big Cat Rescue!
Previous Stories
I have visited the Big Cat Rescue sanctuary on several occasions. It is a wonderful facility. Not only does it care for injured cats, pets that have overgrown their welcome, it also urges the public to be aware of circumstances where cats are being abused and to contact the abuser(s). They have traveled all over the country to pick up cats that were in jeopardy and to give them a safe home. It is a non-profit, run primarily by volunteers who are so committed to their cats.
We had opportunity to visit this rescue many years ago, and although i don't remember now all the details of the tour itself, the Big Cat Rescue made a profound impact on us. I came away with much more awareness of the abuses, challenges and the needs of these varied and amazing creatures. Our visit was one of the reasons i jumped at the chance to join the Facebook page when i saw it. This page in particular is exceptional and keeps up awareness of those ongoing issues. I especially love the posted videos, old or new. Thank you for your desperately needed efforts!
My husband and I along with another retired couple visited Big Cat Rescue last January. I had been following it online for a few months and was delighted that the actual place was even better than the website indicated. We saw lots of large cats and learned their personalities from our guide. Several cats came right up to the fence and looked at us as if to say "Thanks for helping us.". We are in Florida (from Canada) often and we plan to go back again. Thanks Big Cat Rescue for an amazing visit!
Took my oldest boy there many years ago. It's was such a wonderful expierence for both of us and he learned so much as well as gained an important perspective on keeping wild animals wild.
I had the privilege of visiting Big Cat Rescue last January. What an amazing experience! The staff are truly committed to the animals in their care. And the cats seem to be content and happy with their circumstances. There is a definite captive wildlife crisis in this country. It is good to know that Big Cat Rescue is around to help those that they can. Thanks, BCR!
I have been to Big Cat Rescue several times and always learn something new, either about the residents or about big cats and how heartbreaking their struggle to survive really is. These animals are well cared for, get immediate and quality vet care when necessary, and even have a special vacation area where they can go to run and splash in the water. Truly what a sanctuary should be, and you can just tell the cats are relaxed and happy. I look forward to my next visit!
Big cat rescue is doing a superb job in caring for and rescuing unwanted/abused big cats. The Lions/tigers/panthers etc. are treated with love and respect. All the people who work or volunteer there are very friendly and compassionate towards humans and animals! I will continue to donate and visit when I can.
One of the best experiences ever! These are happy cats, to be sure! We went on a "basic" tour for our first tour with BCR and were so very impressed with the facility. It was clean, spacious, and had huge habitats for its' residents. The staff were very knowledgeable about each individual cat, and were ready to answer any question you could throw their way. We plan to return in the spring for the photo tour. Well worth the drive from Naples, and definitely worth the cost of admission!!
My family and I have visited BCR twice in the last 18 months- Being from Chicago, IL, our stay in Tampa was in direct relation to our visits.
This most outstanding organization does more for the big cats than any other organization that I am familiar with.
The caretakers, vets and Carol are there for these animals that are living out their retirements at BCR- They continually put the well being of these animals first and get the message out there to stop illegal trades and home-ownership of these wild creatures.
We will go back again and again to support these animals and to support BSR's efforts to give a better future to the cats as well as humans.
Hi & I was lucky enough to toutour in January, 2000. I was enthralled by the compound, & impressed by the dedication of the folks who devote their time & money to save the big cats, & to educate the public about the horrors & dangers of private ownership. I have been a supporter ever since, & look forward to another visit.
Deborah Swan, Rochester, NY
Awesome place to visit. The cats seem very content, relaxed and well taken care of. One of a kind experience and I recommend visiting.
my husband and I went to Big cat rescue . we were interested in how they took care of all of the cats and their stories. We found the rescue to be a very happy place for all of the animals. They were well taken care of and content in their surroundings. I can never understand why some people would want to have a wild animal in their home, The staff were very knowledgeable and friendly. We hope to return soon. deb stone
From the moment I first heard about Big Cat Rescue, I was entranced. I love big cats, and seeing a sanctuary that cares for them the way they should be care for made my day! So, when I had a chance to make the 2 hour drive to go on a tour, I was so excited! Everything about the visit was top notch, from the greeters who direct parking, to ticket purchase and check in. The tour is breath-taking, and the cats are genuinely happy and healthy. It's so much fun to watch them relax and play in habitats that are as natural as BCR can make them. If you're in the area, and close enough to visit, I couldn't possibly recommend them more!
Also, they're one of the few businesses I know who are actively working to put themselves out of business, by supporting legislature to restrict the ownership of big cats by anyone and everyone. Being there, you get a sense of the cause, and how hard they work toward it. They genuinely love all big cats, and want to do best by them, and it shines through in everything they do.
I have been a HUGE FAN of Big Cats. Their warm, their fuzzy, their dangerous and beautifully mysterious. When I found this rescue site and went on it I have followed many stories about many big cats none have been more positive than the ones on this site. I amazed at the care and love that these cats are getting. The moments they share with the cats and the pictures are truly amazing. KEEP UP THE GREAT WORK.
We had a great tour learning the stories of the cats. Can't wait to go back and see the new Vacation Rotation in person.
When my son passed away 2 years ago we knew, without a doubt, that we wanted our friends and family to donate to Big Cat Rescue in lieu of flowers, etc. Jeff, who manages donations there took us on a tour of the rescue and very graciously ordered plaques to honor our son. My son, Sid, loved the rescue. He took all his out of town friends there when they came to Tampa to visit. The work they are doing is terrific and the animals are well cared for. Their advocacy for the cats is a tremendous effort and they do it tirelessly. Educating the public on how owning these animals can harm the animals is also a huge effort on their part. We partially sponsor Cameron and Zabu.
I have visited Big Cat Rescue a few times over the years. I am amazed at what great care these cats are given. I like that many of them are able to live out their lives as close to nature as possible, as some prior to being brought to Big Cat Rescue had never touched Grass. I will continue to support and visit Big Cat Rescue.
For a few years I had traveled quite a bit visiting and doing projects for animal facilities around this country. Back in 2004 I was blessed with a visit to Big Cat Rescue in Tampa, Florida. It was like nothing I had ever seen, and I had seen and been behind the scenes of MANY of animal facilities. I began volunteering part time for them, two and half years later it was a full time job. I have been there ever since and doubt that I will ever leave. There was so much to learn that opened my eyes to so many things about big cat issues. My life is now, and forever will be, dedicated to their (our) mission. I LOVE BIG CAT RESCUE and getting to be a small part of the movement to change how the public views and treats big cats is an amazing journey / privilege. I am currently still there (2004 to present) but the drop down menu only had a 'former staff' option.
We have visited BCR on two occasions , and were impressed by the care given these cats. The enclosures are large with lots of plants, pools, and hidey-holes. One thing that really stood out was the fact that our guided tour did NOT go down one of the usual paths. Why? Because one of the cats along that route was upset by the tours! BCR respected that cat.
I am also impressed that BCR is speaking out for better rules and regulations on the keeping of big cats. (It's too easy for anyone to buy a tiger as a "pet". A pet! Here's a handy hint - wild animals don't make good pets.) This position is not popular with many people who make a profit by charging people to pet and play with young cubs, and seems to have caused BCR no end of harassment, but they are standing by their beliefs.
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This is proof Carol Baskin is a liar. She claims that this F1 Bengal, is wild, pees everywhere, is hissy, and will not allow Baskin to touch her. Notice in the picture the hybrid cat is in her home, and drapped around her neck. Though this is a low quality Bengal, it is obviously her personal pet. So basically she wants owners and breeders that own F1- F3 hybrid cats to be have their beloved pets confiscated either killed or locked in cages next to lions and tigers. So, Mrs. Baskin that includes your personal pet, also. You want to make these feline illegal, that includes your personal kitty! I am tired of your lies, and how easy they are exposed.
Big Cat Rescue houses many cats, but a broad majority are from her own breeding program. If you search Big Cat Rescue you can find a list of cats she previously bred. Most of the paid employees are from her own family, and their salaries are very generous, as is Baskins. The donations keep her in the grand style she was accustomed to that her second husband kept her in.There are many misguided animal lovers that will fall for her tales of woe, for a abused cat. Most of the time it is exaggerated or a out and out lie. What is Baskin's history? Who truly knows since it changes as often as a women changes shoes. The animals live on a site that used to be a dump, so they are swimming and drinking polluted water. Many of her cats die or suffer of cancer. Also, she has had many violations for fencing, not caring for the amimals properly, and questionable business practices. Right next door to her horses were being slaughtered inhumanely for meat. Their terrified screams could be heard by employees, volunteers, and Baskin herself. They were concerned for the cats they made a bigger and stronger fence, but made the choice not to inform the authorities of the horrors happening next door. There was a giant horse bone grave yard close to the fence. I guess the suffering of other animals is no concern for BCR.
BCR is responsible for legislation that would ban hybrid cats in varying states. Currently, it is California and Florida. As I said earlier this ban is based on opinion, and cannot be collaborated with any factual evidence. This ban would basically kill many beloved pets. It is obvious that Baskin does not believe any of these opinions since she has hybrids splashed all over her Facebook, and owns one as a pet. Not to mention she had a passion for them in the past, and was not successful in breeding. I believe that this is ban is motivated by greed, envy, and the chance for more fame. Also, HSUS and BCR are opening another zoo. Which means more money and attention for her. I truly hope people open their eyes to her evil and deceptions.
This organization are amazing, doing wonderful things for the preservation of our big cats, thank you & keep up the wonderful work guys.
Big Cat Rescue is amazing! I've visited there once and plan to go back soon. The work they do to help the big cats is just awesome. If you have never been there I highly recommend it. The experience is one of a kind.
Big cat rescue and all the volunteers that take care of these animals are tremendous. They go above and beyond to help these animals.I highly recommend everyone to visit. Its truly remarkable everything thats done for each and every animal the BCR takes care of.
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Visited Big Cat Rescue in Tampa, FL, for a wonderful tour of their great work to save and care for larger and small size wild cats.
Most of these magnificent felines are housed in comfort and roomy enclosures with a turn in a "vacation" area to roam and experience the freedom they deserve.
All of this is accomplished by dedicated volunteers and donations by people who just want to help as best they can.
There are few nonprofits that can show such return on dollar and manpower as the health and welfare of the living.
I have visited Big Cat Rescue three times, gone on their tour, and learned a lot. I live near Rochester NY, we incorporated a visit to Big Cat Rescue into our vacation plans to Florida. If you live near Florida make sure you visit this very informative and great place. They do such great work rescuing big cats from deplorable conditions and give them a forever home for the rest of their life! They are working very hard to inform people of the abuse of big cats and change the laws. Thank you BCR for all you do for the cats.
This is a great organization that rescues big cats and educates the public about them. Most big cats are rescued from people who abuse and exploit them. Wish there were more organizations like this one.
Big Cat Rescue is the most wonderful place you can ever visit! I was there last year and GOSH, the animals and their enclosures are gorgeous! The tour guide was friendly and knew her thing. The animals were playful and happy and anyone who says otherwise has not been there!
I recommend BCR for anyone who loves, or even LIKES animals
Simply the best and most informative source for Big Cat and animal lovers. Thank you Big Cat Rescue for everything you have taught me about advocating for big cats everywhere!
My first visit to Big Cat Rescue was this May, and it won't be my last. Each time I visit Tampa, I intend to go. These people are absolutely selfless, and do so much good for these beautiful cats! They take in and care for big cats who have been exploited by idiot people, as well as educate the public. Kudos!!
I have been to Big Cat Rescue twice. I plan on going again in March 2105.
It is a truly amazing place and the work that they do on behalf of all of the big cats is truly amazing.
Enjoy a tour and be completely amazed by how beautiful these animals are and how well cared for they are.
Stop in the gift shop and sponsor one of the cats.
Thank heavens for Big Cat Rescue as these cats a have been saved thanks to them.
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I have been twice to Big Cat Rescue to tour the sanctuary. The last time was February 13, 2012 my 50th birthday. This was the best part of my birthday vacation. Not only was it warmer than at home in Thorold, Ontario, Canada, but it never ceases to amaze me the way that these poor creatures have been treated and how happy they are to live out their lives in the safety of Big Cat Rescue.
It is the kind of experience that really makes you appreciate the kind of work that is undertaken by all of the staff and volunteers at Big Cat. It is truly remarkable to be able to see the most stunning animals in the world and know that they are safe but in the same breath sad to think that someone previously owned and abused them.
I was very proud to learn that Big Cat has been able over the years to rescue Canadian Lynx`s from fur farms in Canada but it also makes me sad to think that people think that is is okay to raise animals to kill them for someone`s idea of the ideal coat.
I will continue visit Big Cat Rescue every opportunity that I have and also continue to shop in their store as my way to support their wonderful work and support the many big cats.
This is one of the few organizations that will take on animals such as lions, tigers, panthers and cougars that others have discarded or outgrown. They combat ignorance with education and finance some truly expensive vet bills between addressing years of starvation and abuse, as well as medical issues from being confined improperly not to mention the (all too common) barbaric declawing of large cats. If they did not exist there would be little recourse for smaller, underfunded and overwhelmed shelters to send their animals to, not to mention the backyard "rescues" that are only that in name. They do a heroic job in transporting large, dangerous animals in from all over the country and caring for them. BCR also does a good job publicizing the abuses large cats (especially kittens and "pets") suffer at the hands of ignorant owners, or ignorant participants in petting schemes, photo ops, etc.. I cannot praise them highly enough.
I have been to Big Cat Rescue twice and both times were wonderful! I will never forget the experience. I am thankful to BCR for the opportunity to see such beautiful animals up close, as well as to participate in enrichment activities and operant conditioning activities. It was really something to see all these animals, whom I would never encounter otherwise except maybe glimpsing them in a zoo, and to see them so well cared for and treated with reverence, as they should be. It was educational, fun, breathtaking at times when watching them play. In short, I love BCR and everything they stand for, and I am thankful there are people who care enough to step up and be good stewards to these animals who have encountered so much misfortune at the hands of humans in their past. The Tampa community is very blessed to have such a unique place and to have good citizens who recognize the real value of these animals and do not kill, coerce, breed, sell or exploit these animals in any way. I only wished I lived closer than North Carolina so I could visit much more often.
I visited Big Cat Rescue in July, 2013 with my dad while in Tampa to visit my sister. Unfortunately, our tour was cut a little short due to thunderstorms and rain (classic summer weather in south Florida!) For the time that we were there and the cats that we saw, it was undeniable to see first-hand how much these amazing cats are loved and cared for by the volunteers at the Rescue. It was so inspiring to see the keepers care for such amazing animals with such respect and compassion that they deserve.
Although our tour was cut short and were unable to use the "rain check" tickets because of our schedule in FL, I've continued to follow BCR online and various social media sites. I absolutely love reading the updates and stories that they post, as well as the quality of information and ease of access to public awareness campaigns and letters to legislators about big cat abuse.
Even from where I live in the Northeast, I have and will continue to support BCR anyway that I can.
Keep up the great work!!!
We had a wonderful tour seeing this place! What incredible work they do to enhance the lives of these magnificent creatures who have suffered at the hands of unthinking or plain exploitive and cruel people. Important work is being done there by those who serve God's creatures!
I visited Big Cat rescue and found the staff to be very knowledgeable and deeply concerned for the welfare of the animals. All the habitats were clean and the animals appeared well cared for.
I enjoyed my visit and have supported them with donations since.
I have volunteered at wildlife rehabilitation centers in NY for over 20 years and so I have some experience on wildlife care and animal behavior.
I had the priviledge to visit Big Cat Rescue many years ago. Back then it was called Big Cats on Easy Street. I enjoyed the entire park for three days, exploring all the areas where the cats were. It was impressive the size of each cats' home, with alot of vegetation, seeming very natural and at times we couldn't find the cats in there areas because it was so big they could hide if they wanted to. Their tours are very informative. I enjoyed feeding time, walking with the volunteers. I was also impressed with how they made sure no cat was ever out of water in the Florida heat. I walked past a cougar's area and there was only 12 inches between me and him...awesome, majestic animals. BCR is by far the very best animal park I've visited in Florida.
Barbara Jimenez
Florida
I've visited the sanctuary and followed the group online for years. All appears totally legit. They rescue big cats from horrible situations and use donations to aid rescued animals and to update/maintain the facility where rescued animals live out their lives. Spacious enclosures and no forced interaction. Everyone has ample space to move, play or hide and appears in excellent condition. This group also actively lobbies at state and fed govt level to change the situation for big cats where the problems start.
I've donated for almost 10 years now and have visited four times and am astounded with the service they provide to abused and neglected big cats. These aren't big cats that you can pay to pet. These are big cats thrown away by greedy people who pretend they care about the animals but use them for personal profit then abuse them and throw them away once they are too big to be cute. Big Cat Rescue provides these magnificent animals very large enclosures stocked with trees, grass, caves, and enrichment activities so they can live their lives out in dignity. Some of these cats experience grass for the very first time after being chained up in a small concrete pen by their former owners. 100% of all proceeds go towards the care of these cats. Big Cat Rescue also spends much time educating the public about why these animals DO NOT MAKE GOOD PETS. Many of these animals here were once pets that just got too big to keep. This is a very worthy charity and I encourage anyone who is in the Tampa area to visit and take a tour to see what fantastic work they do!
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I have donated to Big Cat Rescue for years now. I have visited this facility numerous times. I am extremely impressed with the passion their staff and volunteers care and advocate for their animals. Not only are these big cats not locked in cages, they are afforded huge "Cat-a-tats" that are up to an acre in size. These enclosures are exceedingly spacious, well build, very well secured, and maintained daily. These animals are provide outstanding medical care, food, and enrichment. The volunteers who conduct the tours are extremely up-to-date on big cat behavior and the situations these cats came from and do their level best to convince anyone they come in contact with why it's important to never support places who "use" Big Cats in shows, taking photos with tiger cubs, etc. because that just perpetuates the problem.
While these cats have come from very sad and abusive backgrounds, they are well cared and provided for and can live out their lives in safety and comfort. I cannot imagine a better run, efficient, and maintained charity. The City of Tampa has supported this organization for years engaging in numerous fund-raisers and many community groups come to volunteer to do all sorts of work here. While I live in Columbia, SC, I visit Tampa, FL and Big Cat Rescue every chance I get and give as much as I can.
Big Cat Rescue is a model sanctuary for the care of exotic animals, and I have nothing but the highest praise for them. BCR has made great efforts to provide naturalistic enclosures with targeted enrichment programs for these cats, and the top-notch quality of their care shows in the health and behavior of the cats. Not to mention the fact that a significant proportion of the cats they care for live well into their 20's, the maximal end of any felid's lifespan. BCR has been nothing but revealing in their day-to-day operations and vet procedures. Caring for these cats costs money. A LOT of money. The cats' health and well-being come first, and BCR makes that very clear (as do the cats themselves, who can't lie). Any rescued exotic cat that can call BCR home is very lucky indeed.
Big Cat Rescue does a wonderful job in rescuing big cats from neglectful or abusive situations. The animals are treated with respect and given veterinary care. They have natural surroundings in their enclosures and are given enrichment materials. BCR even has a large vacation enclosure so big cats can explore for several weeks at a time. I believe in and support Big Cat Rescue!
I love this group. Exotic pet ownership is such a serious problem in the U.S. and it's nice to know there is a sanctuary like BCR that is able to care for them. They stand up to a lot of opposition because they take on bullies who keep animals caged in concrete so I'm not surprised by criticism. But like most charities, research is key and this group stands up to scrutiny.
BCR is not only one of the nation's best sanctuaries for big cats, it's also an outspoken advocate for eliminating abusive roadside zoos and faux sanctuaries that exploit these animals for profit.
As a result, BCR is a popular target for animal abusers and their enablers. It's a good measure of just how effective their advocacy is!
After review BCR 990 (a tax return for non-profits) I discovered the paid employees are family members. If I read the document correctly, it looks like they have quite a bit of liquid assets but can't fix the USDA violations. The state of Florida does not consider BCR a sanctuary. The animals are really part of a private zoo (over 32,000 visitors a year) doing the things that the organization is supposed to prevent. Reading the positive reviews, everyone can wait to go there and see the animals again. Now BCR seems to have run out of big cats to "rescue" and is going after domestic cats such as the Bengal and Savannah which have been around for decades.
In my opinion, Carole and Howard Baskin, multi-millionaires, have created the biggest scam possible to have people donate to support their 'habitual hoarding habit' of exotic cats. By supporting bans on these animals, they create for themselves a 'roadside zoo' with no competition. What's supposed to be 'sanctuary' is not considered a Florida sanctuary by FFW due to the amount of advertising and heavy traffic; with possibilities for tours anytime night or day.
This facility does not meet standards and thee owners guilty of 26 VIOLATIONS of the Animal Welfare Act. That statement right there demonstrates the biggest reason for such a poor rating.
I interned with Big Cat Rescue back in 2010. We worked long hard days, but every minute was worth it. All of the work done on the sanctuary was centered around making things better for the cats that live there. Everyone is constantly coming up with new ways to improve the lives of the cats stuck in these cages. The efforts made by the sanctuary to educate the public were also phenomenal, educating people through tours about what being a wild cat really means and showing why they shouldn't be people's backyard pets. The fact that they provide information on legislation and contact letters visitors can send their congressmen shows that they are committed to improving the life of big cats every where, not just those of the cats present at the sanctuary. It is truly an impressive non profit that is focused on making the world a better place, taking nothing for itself and giving everything to its cats. The volunteers are friendly and hard working, as are the few staff members employed (the rescue is almost entirely volunteer run which is really impressive). It is a fun place to visit, and a cause I am honored to have supported with my time. I hope to one day return and volunteer there
BigCatRescue 07/10/2014
topcatsroar is an alias for an old circus performer named Barbara Hoffmann, who lost her USDA license due to the horrid conditions in which she kept big cats in circus wagons. Now she makes a career of trying to discredit Big Cat Rescue, but we wear it as a badge of honor that the bad guys hate us so much. It means we are being very effective in ending the abuses they inflict on captive wild animals for their own gain. More about her here: http://911animalabuse.com/fred-lulling/
Big Cat Rescue is a wonderful sanctuary. I love it there and cannot wait to go again. I am also a contributor and an Advocat. The cats have spacious catatats with grass and dens and trees. They get enrichment and love to rip open spice bags and cardboard figures. These cats have come from places where they were abused, neglected and abandoned. Some were rescued in very bad shape. They have a marvelous medical team and the cats are given top rate medical care. They work very hard in educating the public about why big cats do not make pets. I have learned so much from them and work with them in spreading the word and educating others. Staff and volunteers do amazing work.
This is a wonderful non-profit! They not only rescue abused, neglected, or abandoned big cats, but they also help to educate the public in an effort to put an end to the exotic animal trade and fur trade that put these poor creatures in these situations to begin with. They have numerous campaigns to help educate the public and get laws passed to bring an end to the abomination of fur farms, exotic pet ownership. I learned not only about each animals history before coming to BCR but also the great care they take care of them after they arrive. You leave knowing that something WILD is never something to have as a Pet.
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BCR is exceptional in education all visitors that if people didn't think these cats could be domesticated and kept as pets then there would be NO cats at BCR... The cats here are all from people that thought they could keep them as a pet and then within time realized they could not! The first cat we saw was Amazing Grace. It was fun to see how the animals ham it up for the tour groups! They roll around and do all sorts of "cute cat" behavior. All the animals are rescues and the tour guide told us all about the animal's previous lives. It is amazing that people think you can keep wild animals as pets in a basement!
It is not cheap to feed lions, tigers, bobcats, ect. I thought BCR was a truly wonderful place doing great work for these animals to retire to.
I give it two paws up!
Review from CharityNavigator
The volunteers at BCR are so amazing on many different levels. The sacrifices they make to ensure the well being of the Big cats far exceeds any level of care that I've seen before. Many Volunteers report to BCR on cold mornings, rainy days and hurricane windy days without a complaint. They do so much to provide a great life for these once neglected cats. They educate and spread awareness to the public that is much needed. I cannot say enough good about this sanctuary or the staff. I have followed BCR since the mid 2005 and more actively since 2010. Thank you to all the Volunteers for all your dedication and hard work!
I love this place. I have been here four times so far. It is always part of my family vacation every winter when we visit Florida.
The stories of how some of the cats got there will break your heart, but your heart will be happy again when you see the life they now get to live out here.
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I've been volunteering with the Big Cats for years, and couldn't imagine not being a part of BCR!
Everyone from the staff to interns and volunteers care deeply for the animals are are incredibly dedicated to the cause.
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Big Cat Rescue is an AMAZING place.
Not only does BCR provide excellent care to the cats, BCR's staff, volunteers, and supporters have been making great strides in changing legislation regarding exotic/wild animal ownership in the private sector.
This invokes criticism and downright attacks from private owners and breeders because the end of animal exploitation/ownership affects their livelihood.
The attacks come from those who have never been to Big Cat Rescue, and have never experienced the cats in their large, clean enclosures. The cats at BCR are happy and healthy.
The health of the cats of BCR is no secret. Any time a cat is having a procedure or is in the cat hospital, updates are posted on the public Facebook page for all to see.
Within the past few weeks, BCR said goodbye to two cats, a 15 year old bobcat with severe kidney disease, and a 19 year old serval who had lived 16 of those years at BCR. Both were put to sleep aka euthanized, due to advanced disease and decreased quality of life.
It was the most humane option, and BCR ALWAYS has the cats' best interest in mind.
Big cat does wonderful things for mistreated or neglected animals that others would have forgotten or cast aside. Every experience I have had with them has been wonderful, they are truly amazing people.
The volunteers at BCR are so amazing on many different levels. The sacrifices they make to ensure the well being of the Big cats far exceeds any level of care that I've seen before. They do so much to provide a great life for these once neglected cats. They educate and spread awareness to the public that is much needed. I cannot say enough good about this sanctuary or the staff. I only wish I was closer to them to visit more often or maybe one day be lucky enough to volunteer. Thank you for all your dedication and hard work!
I love this organisation that changes the lives of big cats who would otherwise be condemned to a life of misery.
I just recently found BCR on YouTube and have been a HUGE fan ever since. I love cats of all sizes and the work that BCR does is so necessary. When it comes to how people treat animals I really really hate some people (the abusers, users and those that make money off of the suffering of animals) and I really really LOVE some people. Namely the folks who give their time and resources to help the animals we share this earth with. I have already become a donor (and got the sweetest thank you note back - something not many charities do) and have been trying to spread the word about your awesome work. My next vacation will definitely be to Tampa to see these wonderful animals.
My visit to BCR was some years ago when it was called Big Cats on Easy Street. We were able to rent a room on the property, kinda like a storage shed conversion with full bathroom. I understand these are no longer available, but we had a once in a lifetime experience staying the entire weekend, with two lynx attached as our hosts. It was awesome to be allowed to actually pet big cats, my best experiences were with Little Feather, a bobcat and the caracals and lynx, caracals being the most friendly. We explored the sanctuary at will and the entire experience will always be dear to my heart. I would highly recommend visiting BCR to anyone, but especially anyone who loves felines.
My girlfriends and I were in Tampa in March 2013 and had an opportunity to visit the Big Cat Rescue. What an experience! It far exceeded my expectations! I not only saw these beautiful creatures up close, but I also learned their history. Some of these stories broke my heart, but it brought home the importance of this organization and their desire to bring awareness of not keeping these awesome creatures as "pets". The heart of this organization for these animals is not only a loving one, but it is one full of wisdom. This organization has evolved to not only be a home for those who have been abused or need a home, but if it is possible, to release them back into the wild. The education I received from my visit was immeasurable. I may have arrived as a visitor of Big Cat Rescue, but I left as an active participant of the program. If I lived in the area, I would volunteer (if they would have me), but since I live on the other side of the US, I participate by donating.
My husband and I were in Tampa celebrating our anniversary many years ago and I spotted a brochure for Big Cat Rescue in our hotel lobby. Before we were due to leave for home, I begged my husband to stay in town for a couple extra hours so we could take a tour. I am so grateful that we did because that place changed our lives! We learned so much and were so moved and touched by the stories we heard of the animals. Ever since then we have been regular donors and "Advo-Cats" for the animals. God bless them for their devotion and such care shown to them. I wish I lived closer so I could be a regular volunteer. I cannot say enough good things about them and what an awesome place Big Cat Rescue is, a must see for any visit to Tampa!
Big Cat Rescue fills a necessary and much needed niche in the exotic animal community. Their commitment to the well-being of captive exotic felids is admirable and inspiring. Reading of the rescues encourages me to hope that the many abused and abandoned captive felids still out there waiting for rescue will soon be found before it is too late. Big Cat Rescue, and indeed all of us, continue to fight for legislation banning private ownership of exotic cats. I recommend Big Cat Rescue to anyone looking to support a non-profit engaged in much needed work.
I have been following the work of BCR for years now and i have seen a great growth and development in their organization. Everyone tends to the animals needs and I appreciate all they do for the cats. I am an occasional donor, hopefully i will be able to visit the sanctuary soon. Keep up the great work guys!
We took out parents to Big Cat Rescue for their 50th wedding anniversary. We spent the whole day on behind the scenes tours and had a wonderful time. Big Cat Rescue does amazing working raising awareness that big cats are wild animals and should NEVER be kept as pets. This is a BIG issue in the U.S. They have rescued so many animals over the years and given them the healthiest, happiest lives possible in safe captivity. Here's to the day when the work of Big Cat Rescue is no longer needed. Until then, please support them in their mission!
I have not visited big cats rescue I am a donor and I think what they do is very important and they are doing a great job of preventing animal cruelty.
I am an animal-lover, and have great respect for the Great Cats. To see them in circuses and in private collections breaks my heart. Big Cat Rescue takes these magnificent cats from often horrible circumstances and lets them live out their lives with comfort and dignity. I think it is the least we can do for the cats, and I greatly appreciate the work that Big Cat Rescue does. This organization deserves all the support we can give it.
I've taken three different tours of Big Cat Rescue and been impressed by the quality of the care given to the animals at the sanctuary. The quality of care of the animals and the quality of the work they do with the public lead me to donate annually.
Peter Vennewitz
I first visited Big Cat Rescue with my mom back in the days when it was called Big Cats on Easy Street. From that very first encounter, I knew this was a special place. Over the years I have visited many times and introduced Big Cat Rescue to many friends. No one ever ceases to be amazed and touched by the experience and the incredible work that goes on. I am proud to be a donor and love wearing my Big Cat Rescue hat, because it always gets people's attention and allows me to get the word out about Big Cat. Truly a great organization.
I love this organization, and not only am a regular donor, but made a special trip with two of my best friends to visit the sanctuary. They still tell others how that visit "changed their lives" and the way they see wild animals and the care of them. I am in awe of your dedication and consistent hard work toward good and toward humane rights. Please continue, and if you are reading this, please support this cause and do whatever you can to be sure no one in your life is mistreating or handling an animal.
Big Cat Rescue was introduced to me by in-laws over 15 years ago. I have been a supporter ever since. I love to visit the facility whenever the opportunity arises. The work that this organization does is just amazing and the awareness they bring of how big cats are treated all over the world is an eye opener. There tours are all very educational and I certainly look forward to the day I can do more. God Bless Big Cat rescue and all the volunteer, owner and other supporters.
As an animal lover and supporter I get endless mailings asking me to donate to very worthy organizations. Being retired on a fixed ncome I can only do so much and have to limit my financial support. After much research, I've chosen Big Cat Resue for my support. They do great work and help right some of the terrible wrongs done to innocent and helpless creatures. I urge everyone to support this organization in any way they can.
The Big Cat Rescue is amazing. They want what is best for the animals and always strive to do the right thing and educate the public about their cause too! Love them!
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Big Cat Rescue is by far the best organization I have ever volunteered for or visited. Not only do they provide top notch care for all of their cats, they do tremendous work to end the trade and exploitation of big cats. Educating the public about the plight of exotic cats is critical in ending the abuse and BCR makes change happen. It's so rewarding to aid such a wonderful organization where every day they are making strides toward their mission statement.
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The cats calling Big Cat Rescue home are truly lucky. Most of the cats come from situations of abuse and neglect and finally get a new beginning at BCR. Not only do they provide excellent care for the cats, but they educate the public in order to end the trade and exploitation. If you haven't visited, add BCR to your "must see" list.
I have visited Big Cat Rescue on several occasions and often recommend it to others. It's a wonder to see these gorgeous creatures so well provided for after a lifetime of being neglected or abused. They get to live out their lives in safety and are obviously well cared for by a kind and concerned staff and volunteers. I with everyone had access to this marvelous place.
I have for many years been a proponent for animals and donate regularly to zoos, the Humane Society and now Big Cat Rescue. A few years back while vacationing in Florida my friends suggested a day trip out of the Orlando Area and offered up the choice of a zoo (keep in mind I love zoos) or BCR. I chose BCR out of curiosity and a desire to see their work. Let me tell you those cats have got it made!!! They have wonderful enclosures and all appear to be happy and very well cared for. I was inspired to make a donation based on the information I garnered on the tour and the appearance to the animals. I subscribe to the newsletter and am always happy that more big cats are on their way to their forever home at BCR. The staff is loving and insures that these cats are not exploited. One of the best non profit organizations out there.
The folks at Big Cat Rescue provide a safe, clean and stimulating environment to many animals who have been treated poorly in their past. It is clean and safe and very enjoyable to visit with guides who provide insightful answers to every question. I've seen firsthand how a casual visitor can become a very committed donor in just one educational tour. I have become acquainted with a volunteer who is in her second year at the Rescue, and gives countless hours to the cause despite her busy schedule. I've learned she is just an example of many other volunteer staff who have given of their time and love for many, many years.
Big Cat rescues big cats that have been put in bad situations by well meaning humans and also some really bad humans. I travelled to Florida for my birthday just to see this place. The cats are goregeous and well cared for. The ones that aren't comfortable with being viewed are kept in a private area. Which tells me they reallly care about what the cat is feeling. I know they would rather be in the wild but this is the best option for them since the wild is no longer and option. The most spectacular thing is hearing Joseph (a handsome male lion) roar. It will make your chest vibrate! You can hear it out to the parking lot! Zabu and Cameron is a must see. You can read their story at The Big Cat Rescue site or app. All the cats come close to you just to check you out! If I lived in Florida I would be a volunteer.
I hope you go there and start donating to the cause as I have. We as humans have put them in this situation. I am so happy there is a place where they can go and be safe.
We have visited the Big Cat Rescue site in Tampa FL several times and fully enjoyed the sites, sounds & learning they offer. The cats are well cared for; the volunteers & professionals truly love these animals and it shows in all they do.
I am passionate about the plight of tigers & other big cats as they face threats of extinction in the wild & abuse, neglect & exploitation at the hands of human beings. Big Cat Rescue works tirelessly to educate & inform while they actively rescue & care for these amazing creatures. If I lived closer I would give as much time as possible to help with their mission. As is I give as much $$$ as I can
The plight of abused and mistreated exotic cats has little awareness in society. Big Cat Rescue not only cares for abandoned exotics but is constantly fighting to raise awareness and support needed laws to reduce this problem.
This non profit organization provides for the well being of big cats who have been abused, are old, have been found hurt, etc. My husband and I have been there a few times and help support with small donations throughout the year. I am amazed at their level of care for the big cats, knowledge and generally trying to ensure the most natural of habitats they can provided the land area they have to work in. This is a bright star for Florida and Tampa. The cats are beautiful and to be able to see them and learn about them is truly amazing. I highly recommend a visit to them to anyone who is new to the area - my husband and I try and go at least once a year for a visit.
I have been to this sanctuary around 6 times, sharing it with my friends when I can. The emphasis is on providing sanctuary for the cats, and also education to the public about the inappropriateness of trying to keep big cats as pets, or exploit them for entertainment.
It is very clean, and you can see how impassioned the volunteers are about caring for the animals. I always leave with mixed emotions; happy that the cats there have a better life, but sad that the exploitation continues. The admissionn fee helps to support their cause, and I consider it money well spent.
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BCR serves a dual role as not only providers of care for these "unwanted" animals, but equally as important, as educators of the public. It is through education that they hope to stem the tide of inappropriate use of wild cats as pets and entertainment. People may innocently "support" this exploitation by paying for these shows and photo sessions, unaware of the ultimate end for the cats.
My sister in law introduced me to this rescue years ago. She was an impassioned supporter of animals, particularily Tigers and had the pleasure of spending time at Big Cat Rescue. For the last five or six years I have supported their work and donated any time I could. I wish I lived closer so I could visit more often, help more and work there. Nancy Johnson Tulsa, OK
I have never had the pleasure of visiting (yet) but follow them on Facebook, YouTube, and their action site at BigCatRescue.org. (CatLaws)
I have written to a few officials on various big cat related issues brought to my attention thru these sites. I respect and applaud the efforts of BCR and all their affiliated sanctuaries thru the GlobalFederationofAccreditedSanctuaries.
We live over an hour away (The Villages) and this is our MOST favorite place to visit and take others/ family & friends who come to see us!!! All of the cats are gorgeous and SOOO well taken care of!!! Their habitats are awesome, they all seem so happy and content... Makes your heart feel so good!!! The entire property is most impressive, the cats are "to die for" beautiful!!! And, the REAL tribute goes to the staff and volunteers who commit themselves so unselfishly and care so very much!!! If you come and take one of their tours, you will NEVER forget such a positive experience!!! This is one of Tampa's TOP attractions, for sure!!! We should also say, one of Central Florida's TOP attractions!!! Bless all of the caring people work work/ volunteer here, as well as the beautiful and loved cats!!!
Rusty and Judy
This was a wonderful place for all these big cats. I am a teacher and they opened up their rescue (for free) to teachers a few years ago. I had the opportunity to go. What a great thing these people do for those animals. To hear the stories about the cats and now they are living in a wonderful enclosure that doesn't really seemed enclosed because they have so much room to be kitties in. I loved it and wish I could bring my class there.
I had the wonderful opportunity to see in person what this great organization does for the treatment of Big Cats when I visited Big Cat Rescue in Tampa on ay vacation trip several years back. As a lover of animals, I'm amazed at the brutal abuse suffered by felines all over the earth at the hands of humans and am so grateful Big Cat Rescue devote their time, energy and money to rescue these animals and provide a decent environment to those rescued as well as educate the public about these abuses and rescues.
Thank you to this organization and the men and women who work tirelessly on behalf of these beautiful feline creatures whom we share this earth with. LOVE< LOVE LOVE BIG CAT RESCUE!! Keep on keeping on with your wonderful work!!
Amazing place to visit. My daughter and I both learned so much while on a trip there. I was amazed at their respect for the animals and impressed with the staff and volunteers extensive knowledge. This was no show, the animals were treated as animals and the people kept their distance. A true sanctuary where the animals needs are put first.
Big Cat Rescues, rescue, rehab, release back to the wild if possible and safe for the cats. They provide a safe haven for those cats that can't be returned to the wild. The other really big thing they do is educating the public on the fact that these cats are wild, not "Pets"! They are not breeding animals for a profit, to be used as cute and cuddly animals, to be petted, held by the general public, or swim with. This is cruel to the animals and not fair to the public who does not understand the wildness of these cats.
I've only been able to visit this sanctuary once, but continue to support them as much as I can. I'm unable to volunteer because I don't live in FL. A SiFi fan group I belong to have sponsored 2 cats there. Our first cat passed away much to our sorrow, so we've adopted a new cat to sponsor. I love all the work the volunteers do at Big Cat, and the love and care the animals receive. They are not a zoo! They are a sanctuary! Go to their web site, or even better visit them in FL.