Sadly, in many areas of the United States, there are countless unwanted, neglected and abused, exotic animals kept in captivity. The number of animals bred and sold in captivity is staggering. A February 2011 report from the non-profit, Washington, DC-based research and advisory organization Global Financial Integrity finds that the illicit trade in the exotic animal industry is a $10 billion industry, falling just behind drugs, counterfeiting, human trafficking and oil.
Bobbi Brink, founder of Lions Tigers & Bears, shares with our listeners the series of events that led to the creation of her NO KILL, NO BREED, NO SELL rescue and educational facility that allows the animals in their care the opportunity to live out their lives with dignity in a caring and safe environment.
With a primary concerns are for the health, comfort and safety of their animals, Brinks has made it her life’s work to rescue and provide homes for as many of these tortured animals as possible. Their goal is to provide a safe haven for these rescued animals and to educate the public about the growing population of abused and abandoned exotic animals and where they come from.
In this very special interview Bobbi will share her other great love, inspiring her passion for animals in our children. As she explains, Lions, Tigers & Bears’ Kids Program, was designed to be more than a visit to the zoo, it is complete with an exciting educational video, followed by guided visit around the sanctuary where children will be inspired to learn about our rescued animals, their rescue stories and general facts about each species.
ABOUT BOBBI BRINK
Bobbi Brink, Founder, Director and Vice President of Lions Tigers & Bears, has been working with and advocating for captive big cats, bears and other exotic animals since the early 1990s.
She began her personal involvement with these efforts, after witnessing the abuses and neglect inflicted on captive exotics victimized by the exotic animal trade. Bobbi made a decision that something must be done, and since then she has made it her personal mission to work to end the abuses that stem from this heinous industry, one animal at a time.
Bobbi plays an active role in managing all aspects of Lions Tigers & Bears’ daily operations, from daily feedings to office management. She is a prolific fundraiser and tireless advocate for abused and displaced wildlife.
Bobbi has worked across the country to coordinate the rescue and relocation of hundreds of big cats, bears and exotic animals – providing them an opportunity to live out their lives at reputable sanctuaries, including Lions Tigers & Bears. Bobbi has testified before Congress, help instill legislation that would regulate the trade of these animals.
She is also very active in local planning groups, and both she and Lions Tigers & Bears have won multiple awards and recognition for leadership and public service from the Alpine Chamber of Commerce, the San Diego County Board of Supervisors and the California State Assembly
