09/25/2026
SCAM-tuaries or SANCtuaries. Shocking to think that along with the domestic kitties in need of rescuing, the wild ones need our help as well. To learn more on how to advocate for wild cats... https://wildcatsanctuary.org/how-to-be-an-advocate/ and right here in Colorado we have an incredible SANCtuary.. The Wild Animal Sanctuary https://www.wildanimalsanctuary.org/animals
😿 What to do if you see animal exploitation? If you witness something you consider animal abuse, report it by using this form or emailing the USDA at [email protected]. They’re in charge of regulating and enforcing the Animal Welfare Act. The more they hear from you, the more likely they are to send out inspectors to investigate. It’s the “squeaky wheel” concept.
If you accidentally end up at a SCAM-tuary facility where you see something that isn’t right, snap some pictures (if it’s safe to do so) and file a report on the APHIS website. https://www.aphis.usda.gov/contact/animal-welfare
You can also submit concerns to your local law enforcement agencies, as well as your state’s agricultural department to ensure all agencies are aware.
🐅 What about at zoos or circuses? PLEASE Don’t support circuses that still use animals in their performances, period. When public attendance drops, so do their profits. As we’ve seen, Ringling Bros. finally made the switch to animal-free circuses (and doing well), so you can make a difference simply by refusing to attend.
Before you visit a zoo or sanctuary, do your research. Check to see if they’re accredited with either the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries https://sanctuaryfederation.org/find-a-sanctuary/ or the American Zoological Association https://www.aza.org/find-a-zoo-or-aquarium before you visit. Many call themselves zoos or sanctuaries who are actually SCAMs.
If you’re considering visiting a facility you’re unsure about, you can view all inspection reports and enforcement actions for the last 10 years on the APHIS website using their Animal Care Public Search Tool to see if inspectors have made any comments. https://aphis.my.site.com/PublicSearchTool/s/
Easy links for you to speak out on behalf of animals being exploited or abused. You can be a voice for the voiceless with one simple email.