About Us

No Zoo Animals

As a Big Cat Wildlife Sanctuary, we’re sometimes thought of as a zoo, but zoo animals are generally kept in cages and in the lesser zoos, many of the animals’ critical well-being needs such as enrichment are not met. A petting zoo may even allow the handling by the public of cubs, but we believe this is not in the best interests of our big cats, and under MPI regulations, is actually illegal once they are over 6 months of age. Even our specialist keepers are not allowed to directly handle the big cats.

Owner of the park, Janette Vallance, has been involved with big cats for many years. The family owned a native wildlife park in Australia which led them to become involved with the retirement and respite for big circus cats.

The entire big cat wildlife sanctuary is far safer, bigger, and better for cats, staff and visitors, and the prior history of animal welfare.  The management issues under previous ownership of six years ago, are relics of a past which has been repaired and laid permanently to rest. We know all our cats intimately and cater to each individual’s special interests, whether it’s a spray of coffee, or a special treat.

Looking after our big cats is not work. It’s what our lives are about and dedicated to. Even on the rough days when weather can make life difficult for us and the cats, as soon as our beautiful big felines start talking to us, the stress lifts and the satisfaction sets in. The cats are fine, and for us, that makes everything else really good.