The Exotic Feline Rescue Center in Center point, Indiana is a haven for abused, neglected, illegally purchases/housed, or abandoned exotic cats. These include tigers, lions, leopards, cougars, ocelots, serval, Asian leopard and tigon. Currently the center has 196 exotic felines. Only a portion of these cats are on display for public view. Due to the circumstances retrieving an abandoned or neglected cat they have become fearful and agitated when exposed to humans.
The center is licensed by the USDA and relies on donations to keep their doors open. The Exotic Feline Rescue's philosophy since its creation in 1991 is preservation for the cats their first priorities while offering public displays to better educate on the need to understand that these wild animals are just that and not to be kept as pets, side shows or exploited.
The rescue center does not breed or sell any of their cats. Once a cat is placed at The Exotic Feline Rescue Center it has a home for life with the very best veterinary care available.
Under their education and outreach program the facility offers classroom presentations geared to all grade levels to promote the message that these felines are wild animals. The rescue center has guided field trips through the rescue center that cover approximately 20 acres; duration of the tour is 50 minutes to 90 minutes and it is a walking tour. Comfortable shoes and proper apparel is suggested. The center has two internship programs. The credit internship program is associated with the Indiana University through the Center for Integrative Study of Animal Behavior. The non credit internship is geared for the student that wants to be employed in the animal care industry. They utilize this non credit internship to gain experience that will help them in their careers.
There is a volunteer program and individuals must meet certain guidelines. The volunteer must be at least 18 years old, have visited the rescue center previously and commit to volunteering at least twice per month.
The rescue center offers overnight accommodations for adults only in their cabins. The cabins are quite comfortable with shower, tube, microwave, refrigerator, coffee bar with complimentary coffee and tea, and a queen sized bed. The roar of lions and other feline growls can be heard throughout the night from the confines of the cabin. This package allows an all day tour pass and access to the felines after hours when the park is closed. Reservations are required.
The Exotic Rescue Center has an extensive Facebook page with over 849 fans of the center. Visit the wall and read the comments from the supporters of the rescue center.
The center has several ways to raise money for the felines. One option is a charity auction, donations with several levels of recognition ranging from a $ 25.00 donation to pride membership of $10,000.
If a donor would rather donate goods rather than money the center has compiled a wish list. The list includes: a pick up truck, cement, golf cart, gravel, plywood, lumber, postage stamps, cedar chips, telephone poles, spray foam, Horse fly traps, and Boomer Balls. All donations are tax deductible.
The Exotic Feline Rescue Center is located at 2221 E Ashboro Rd, Center point, IN, 47840. Phone 812-835-1130. Email: efrc1@verizon.net
