Big Cat Rescue

Cause Area

  • Advocacy & Human Rights
  • Animals
  • Community
  • Environment
  • Women

Location

12802 Easy StreetTampa, FL 33625 United States

Organization Information

Mission Statement

Caring for Big Cats and Ending the Trade in them as Pets, Props & Parts

Description

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. We are the most hated, feared and lied about by circuses, back yard breeders, roadside zoos, cub petting pimps and pseudo sanctuaries because we are the most effective at ending the abuse of big cats. We wear that as a badge of honor.

  • The sanctuary began rescuing exotic cats in Nov. 4, 1992.
    • 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 and Species Survival Network
    • 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.

Reviews

Would you recommend Big Cat Rescue?
8 reviews Write a review
by Jason B. from Tampa, FL (2017-01-29 16:44:49.0)
What an amazing cause and a great day of learning. Thankful for the opportunity
by Jenna W. (2012-10-12 10:35:46.0)
This is an incredible organization that does so much good work for the animals it cares for, legislation and education. It is very well run with a great group of people. I always loved being out there enjoying peaceful time with these magnificent creatures and knowing I was doing a small bit to make their lives as comfortable and enriching as possible. I'm very picky about the organizations I support as many don't do much or often do more harm than good, but this is one of the best organizations I've run across with all efforts going toward helping the animals they have and to prevent more animals from ending up in similar situations. If you can't volunteer, I highly encourage you to at least take a tour or donate to BCR!
by Kaylee M. (2010-11-21 16:49:53.0)
My internship with BCR was one of the best experiences of my life. Whether you want a career working with wildlife, or just have a desire to learn more about exotic cats, I highly recommend volunteering or interning at BCR. If I could do it again I would in a heartbeat! The people are as amazing as the cats. Both have a place in my heart!
by Marie S. (2010-11-20 09:36:17.0)
I always had a passion for animals but especially for cats, small, medium, big…. any size cat!!! Thanks to Big Cat Rescue I was able to realize my dream and even more than that! Not only I am able to work and take care of these beautiful and unbelievable animals but Big Cat Rescue also educated me about them! Big cat Rescue has grown my passion! There was so much I didn’t know, so much that the public still ignores. And every single day I still learn more and more! This passion has become my life and all these animals, still with us or gone over the rainbow, are part of my heart forever! This passion is now my mission! My voice is now their voice!
by Chelsea F. (2010-11-20 08:41:12.0)
I both work for and volunteer for Big Cat Rescue. I have never been happier in my life! You haven't living until you have had a tiger "chuff" at you, seen a leopard do a somersault while trying to catch her tail, or simply enjoyed watching a pair of bobcats play with a new toy. I get to experience these things everyday. Between these wonderful animals and amazing people who give up there free time to care for them, I simply could not think of a better place to be.
by merrill k. (2010-11-19 18:08:18.0)
I've been a dedicated Partner Volunteer since 2 days after my first tour...about 5 years ago! My responsibilities include the recycle program that brings in significant money. What an honor to work with such dedicated and selfless people who care so much about the physical and emotional well being of our captive beasts. I am always excited to be on site and have the privilege of seeing my feline friends. BCR is a life changing experience!
by Meredith P. (2010-11-19 16:14:07.0)
I have had the pleasure of volunteering at Big Cat Rescue for nearly two years. I was recently promoted to "Senior Keeper" which means I not only care for the smaller cats, but also I am able to care for the greater cats such as lions, tigers, and leopards. At Big Cat Rescue not only do we provide the best possible care for these cats, we also advocate for them, and educate the public. As a keeper, we clean the animals' enclosures, feed them, provide enrichment in the form of "ditty bags" (paper bags with spices in them), "cicles" (frozen treats) and new and interesting platforms and enclosure enhancements for the cats to explore and enjoy. If physical labor in the Florida sun isn't your thing, we are also in need of volunteers for our "Partner" track. Partners not only work in the gift shop, they often provide tours, and do outreach events to educate the public. Partners also maintain many behind-the-scenes responsibilities, like preparing for our once-a-year gala, the "FurBall".
by Nanci S. (2010-11-19 10:23:59.0)
Big Cat Rescue has been an experience like no other for me. I have been given the opportunity to work with animals that would never have happened if it wasn't for BCR. I love the people, facility and the animals. It is like family there. There is so much to learn and so much to do. I am proud to be affiliated with this group and never hesitate to talk it up when I can!

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