Florida, USA – Forest Animal Rescue

Founded in 1998, Forest Animal Rescue is a lifetime-care sanctuary for non-releasable wild animals. The rescued animals come from lives of abuse, exploitation, or neglect and most have narrowly escaped being destroyed for lack of a place to go. The sanctuary also rehabilitates and releases native black bears for Florida and surrounding State authorities.

Over 100 animals, ranging from big cats to bears, wolves, primates, bats, and more, reside on the 80-acre facility in large, natural habitats.

The animal residents have been confiscated by authorities, used in research, left to starve, or have been attempted pets that failed because of their wild nature. At Forest Animal Rescue, they have the space and peace that they need to heal and thrive. They receive the best in veterinary care, a healthy diet, and playmates of their own kind. They regain confidence as their bodies gain strength, and they learn to trust the humans who have come to their aid instead of living in fear.

As a true sanctuary, the rescued animals are never bred, sold, or exploited in any way. They are not asked to do anything except to be as wild as they were born to be. They learn to thrive under the careful watch and compassion of the caring staff. Forest Animal Rescue is not open to the public as an attraction or zoo; the only visitors allowed are through bi-monthly tours, scheduled in advance by reservation.

Forest Animal Rescue is highly respected and internationally recognised. Fully accredited by the American Sanctuary Association, a member of the Big Cat Sanctuary Alliance, licensed and inspected by State and Federal authorities, the sanctuary has earned a well-respected place in the sanctuary community.

Some of the duties included in volunteering are as follows:

– Prepare primate and bat food, this includes sorting, cleaning, and cutting fruits and vegetables according to strict dietary requirements. Distribute food to the animals.

– Assist in preparing omnivore and carnivore diets and food distribution.

– Assist in cleaning animal habitats and pools.

– General cleaning and organising activities involved with feeding and general care for the animals.

– Assist with habitat construction and maintenance, learning about captive wildlife safety and caging requirements.

– Assist in general grounds maintenance and repairs

– Assist in general animal enrichment activities thereby learning how to ensure a better quality of life for all animals residing at the sanctuary.

– Assist in general administrative duties related to animal care and sanctuary procedures and other activities as appropriate.