Big Cat Rescue Educational Sanctuary in Tampa, Florida

WildLife on Easy Street, is now Big Cat Rescue Sanctuary, and is home for over 200 animals, mainly cats. It was really hard to find so I checked it out on their website www.wildlifeoneasystreet.com. It is situated at the end of a dirt road where there was a huge wire fence and gate. I jumped out and looked to see how to get in. There was a bell to ring and a lady came to greet us. She opened the gate and parking was to the left. From here we walked into a primitive area. There was a tent, table and chairs. This was where we read, that we would adhere to the rules, and paid a $20 donation. Every penny of the donations go to the animals. The staff members are paid through business sponsors. I was told that there were 6 employees and 35 or more volunteers. I just wish I lived closer, so that I could be a volunteer.

We planned on the 3.00 p.m. tour and arrived 15 minutes early. By 5 minutes to 3 it looked as if we would be the only ones. Amazingly in the last few minutes 10 more people arrived. I asked how long the tour was, and was told approximately 1-1 1/2 hours.

We were asked to stay behind the tour guide, but in front of the golf cart. This way no one would get lost. We got to see around 25 big cats. All were in large cages with runs. I had been a little apprehensive that they may be in small areas, so this reassured me.

We got to see beautiful cougars. They are so elegant. I took photographs of them sitting, walking, and just lazing about. Some really cute lynx and bobcats and can you believe that the snow leopards stayed in their air-conditioned units. I was so sad, because I just love them.

The Bengal tigers, mainly came from 'Ringling Brothers'. When their cats get too old to perform they transport them to this establishment. They pay for the construction of their cages, pay for their food, and vet fees. They even send their own veterinarian if necessary. People always tend to tell you bad things about circus people, but this made me feel so good. These tigers swim in the lake and we were told that they have a 3 acre 'cat-a-tat' to run in.