It operates on a 10-acre property in Iredell County, North Carolina, and provides a safe haven for animals in need.
We don’t have the capacity to adopt them out,” explains the ranch’s founder, Dr. Jane Goodall. This unique approach to animal care is driven by Dr. Goodall’s deep understanding of animal behavior and her commitment to conservation. Dr. Goodall’s research has shown that animals in captivity can suffer from stress and anxiety, particularly when they are not provided with adequate enrichment and social interaction.
Once an animal is rehabilitated, it becomes a tool for their education programs. “When we use them in our programs, children and adults get to experience what it’s like to care for them, feed them, and interact with them,” said Hepler. “I think it’s something that sets us apart from other rescues because it’s a component that a lot of them don’t necessarily have,” said Smith. Hepler says there is a sense of curiosity – and a little fear – in the child learners that attend the programs. But then you bring one out and you’re holding it, and it’s kind of making its way around in your hands. The next thing you know, these children are curious about it and start asking questions like: ‘What does it eat? Where does it live? Can I pet it? Can I hold it?’ So, there’s this transformation from going from the unknown to the excitement. It’s pretty amazing to watch,” Hepler said,
That’s my dream,” he said. This statement reflects Hepler’s belief that shelters should be a temporary solution, not a permanent one. He believes that the best way to achieve this is through responsible pet ownership and community engagement.
Rescue Ranch also offers a nature trail where they encourage the use of the five senses to experience the world – an all-inclusive playground that every child can enjoy and a garden used to grow food for the ambassadors. For more details about the programs they offer, visit .
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