(Wylie) Some time yesterday, the owner of a private zoo in Zanesville, Ohio is believed to have willfully released wild, dangerous animals into his community just prior to his death (presumed suicide). The animals included bears, tigers, lions, wolves, and other dangerous animals. At the time of this writing, most of the animals have been killed to protect the public; a few are still loose and local authorities are looking for them.
This may have some local residents worrying about this sort of thing happening here. First and foremost, In-Sync Exotics, located at 3430 Skyview Drive in Wylie, would like to make it clear that In-Sync is a sanctuary – not a private zoo!
We are USDA certified and a member of the American Sanctuary Association. We exist because of the great number of private owners that are unwilling or unable to properly care for their “pets,” and these “pets” must then be rescued. Too often, the owner of an exotic cat acquires the “pet” cat as a status symbol, because it’s “cool,” or because they want to use the cat to make money. Later, hopefully before it’s too late, the owner realizes they are not equipped to properly care for the cats. In-Sync then steps in to rescue the cat and puts the needs of the animal first.
Once a cat is rescued by In-Sync Exotics, he/she lives with us for the remainder of his/her life. Our cats live in safe, spacious enclosures and receive veterinary care, proper nutrition, enrichment and a great deal of love. We are, however, constantly mindful that these are top predators and dangerous animals. As such, we would like to share the safety precautions we take to drastically reduce the possibility that this sort of thing will happen here in Collin County.
Each cat is behind at least two chain link fences at all times. The fences are set in concrete and securely attached to roofs. In addition to two fences, each cat is behind at least two gates, both secured with steel latches and padlocks. Only trained staff/volunteers have access to the keys which unlock the padlocks. The cats also have cinderblock dens; most of these dens have “lockdown” doors.
We encourage concerned citizens to visit the sanctuary and see for themselves the safety procedures that are in place at our facility. In-Sync values the safety of our community AND the safety of our animals. We know that, to keep everyone safe, we must protect them from direct contact with each other.
In-Sync Exotics Wildlife Rescue and Education Center is dedicated to the rescue and care of abused, neglected, or unwanted exotic cats. There are now 59 exotic cats and one coatimundi calling In-Sync home. This includes two cheetahs, three exceptionally rare white lions, three white tigers and a tiger cub.
For more information about the sanctuary, visit .insyncexotics.com.
Written by Lisa Williams, In-Sync Exotics.
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