So much has changed since my last story in 2022.
That year I faced the most difficult loss a mother can endure: the passing of my daughter. In the midst of grief, I entrusted the care of our sanctuary to others, stepping away for a time.
When I returned in 2024, I was relieved to find that the animals in our care were doing well. No new rescues or placements had been taken in during that period, but also discovered that some troubling things had happened in our absence. Our nonprofit identity had been misused, and a $80,000.00 tax credit was claimed without donation. Thankfully this situation has been reported and is now fully in the hands of the proper authorities.
What gave me peace through it all was knowing that our USDA license remained in good standing. Even through difficult times, our record for animal care and housing has stayed clean, just as it always has.
Since returning, I have personally taken in several new rescues, reached out to new placement opportunities, and worked hard on much needed improvements to our sanctuary. The path has not been easy but the progress has been real.
Today I am pleased to say: Wild Things Exotic Animal Orphanage is back in order. Our doors - and our hearts - remain open to the animals that need us most.
Thank you for standing with us through the trials and into this new chapter. Your support makes a difference every single day.
With gratitude,
Debby Rose
Founder & Director
Wild Things Exotic Animal Orphanage