10/30/2026
If only they could tell their stories...
Fiona has been with us since the very beginning. She, along with a few of our original residents like "The Boys" (Kevin Bacon and John Ham) and Franky, our Blue and Gold Macaw, have become such an integral part of who The Keepers are and why we do what we do.
But behind every one of these beautiful animals is a story. And unfortunately, not all of those stories have happy beginnings.
The reality is that most of the animals in our care should never have been in captivity in the first place.
Animals like Fiona, our beautiful marbled fox, came from the fur trade. Others arrived as unwanted pets, victims of illegal ownership, neglect, or cruelty.
As humans, we love the idea of sharing our lives with these incredible creatures. We admire their beauty, intelligence, personalities, and the connections we can build with them.
But there is a darker reality that we cannot ignore.
Many of these animals are living in captivity because of decisions humans have made over generations. Decisions driven by profit, entertainment, curiosity, and sometimes simply the desire to own something wild.
And now, we have a responsibility to do better.
Do we absolutely LOVE the animals in our care? Without a doubt!
Do we wish they could spread their wings, roam freely, and experience the lives nature intended for them? 100%.
Unfortunately, for many of our residents, that opportunity is no longer possible. Their lives have been forever changed by human intervention.
And that is why we do what we do.
The Keepers are wildlife educators first and foremost. Yes, we rescue. Yes, we provide lifelong care. And yes, we build incredible bonds with the animals who call our facility home.
But our ultimate goal is something much bigger.
Our dream is that one day, we will no longer be needed.
Will that ever become a reality? Sadly, we have our doubts.
But every person we meet, every rescue story we share, every child, adult, or senior who takes a moment to listen and learn about responsible pet ownership, animal welfare, and wildlife conservation brings us one step closer.
Because education creates awareness. Awareness inspires change. And change gives these animals something they have never had enough of.
A voice.
Fiona, Kevin, John Ham, Franky, and every animal who has crossed our path over the last 10 years have taught us so much.
They are not just the faces of Meet The Keepers. They are the reason behind our mission.
We don't educate people so that more wild animals end up in captivity. We educate people in the hope that fewer ever have to.
And until that day comes, we will continue to be their voice. 💙