Crazy Critters Inc. Grant, Sponsorship, and Contribution Request

Our family proudly operate an animal rescue and sanctuary in Eustis, Florida. We have dedicated our family farm to neglected, injured, and, unwanted exotic pets. For the past few years, we have focused on specializing in turtle and tortoises. We are submitting this proposal in hopes of a Grant, Sponsorship, and Contribution Request

Yellowbelly/Red Ear Slider Hybrid. Photo Credit Bobbin Weave Costumes

The need for exotic animal rescue is so great and one reason is that there are so many of these animals being released into our waterways and natural lands. In 2007, Florida banned the sale of Red-Eared Sliders within the state; it is also illegal to move a Slider from one location in Florida to another or to release one. People who already have Red-Eared Sliders can keep them, but have to meet housing requirements to prevent escapes, are banned from obtaining any more, and are required to destroy any offspring.

Farmed in the millions in their native Southern U.S., red-eared sliders are shipped within the country and around the world, mostly to pet stores and Asian meat markets. Since 1975, however, selling baby turtles that are less than 4 inches long has been illegal in the U.S. Still, baby turtles are cheap, adorable and seemingly low-maintenance making them perfect gift and are most likely to be purchased on a whim or given to very young children as pets.

The exotic animal trade threatens Florida’s native species. Because Florida’s climate is so hospitable, invasive species cause more of a crisis here than anywhere else in the continental United States. Large monitor, snakes, as well as black and white tegu lizards, endanger the population of alligators, crocodiles, and turtles with their hunger for eggs. In addition to the environmental havoc the cold-blooded creatures wreak, invasive exotic species have major economic impacts.

This economic effect is magnified in Florida where the climate and landscape are favorable to the establishment of invasives. Large and small, terrestrial, freshwater, estuarine, and marine — invasive exotic animal species in a range of different sizes, shapes, and forms have invaded Florida in recent years. Non-native reptiles, amphibians, birds, mammals, and fresh and salt-water fish species have invaded and now call South Florida home, sometimes at the ecological expense of native animal species, and often at the financial expense of humans.

Researchers have now documented these animals in the act of stealing eggs from the nests of alligators and native turtles. In one case, hidden cameras recorded a video of two tegus removing eggs every day until the nest was left vacant. This evidence of their harmful activity was published as part of a new research study performed by a team of scientists from the University of Florida, the U.S. Geological Survey and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

When it comes to reptiles, cold-blooded is a way of life, not a character trait. Reptiles are capable of recognizing people by voice, sight, and smell; many are capable of learning. Some species actually benefit from interaction with humans. When cared for properly, all live as long or longer than mammalian pets of similar size.

There is no generic reptile. Reptiles have adapted over time to an amazing range of habitats and lifestyles, from underground to the tops of trees, from below sea level – and in the sea – to high up in the mountains. They are endlessly fascinating.

As the guardian reptiles, we get to learn about everything from adaptation, behavior and the environment, to nutrition, camouflage, and reproductive strategies. Learning about the natural history and proper captive care of these animals just might change your world outlook and get you thinking more about the environment as a whole.

There are so many reasons people may need to find a home for their exotic pets. Luckily, it is not always abusive or neglectful environments. We ourselves had a home fire in 2013. It forced us to make a hard choice to rehome our exotics because we knew we could not afford to rebuild our home and feed the animals properly. It was a peaceful decision because we found an education center that was more than willing to take in our wonderful collection of snakes. Now, we have dedicated ourselves not only to the animals but also to the human factor. It is a humble service to help people feel secure in the decision to rehome. And then to help them rehome properly. This allows the choice to be made sooner while the animal is often in a happier and healthier state.

As the hot summer leaves us here in Florida, our human need for compassion often intensifies. At Crazy Critters Inc., our need for sponsors have become particularly acute due to the cold months, because our heating and feeding bills are three times as high and the pet adoption numbers rise. We hope that you can open your heart and your pocketbook on behalf of your company and/or your family. There will be a need for a half dozen tortoise barns to be built before the weather turns chili.

Crazy Critters Inc. is a nonprofit organization that serves a large community. Animals find their way to our facility from all over the state of Florida. Until recently, we funded this venture completely ourselves. Selling boats, cars, and trailers. All for the herps. Now we are asking for help.

Your donation is fully tax deductible. We believe that donations should benefit both parties. In this proposal, we have outlined the needs, described the facilities and services your donation will support and explained how your generosity will be recognized in our literature and community outreach programs. Thank you for the consideration. Rest assured that your generous donation to Crazy Critters Inc. will be put to the best possible use.

Foundation:

Kenneth Purvee is the fifth generation on his family farm. His great-grandparents raised egg-laying hens back in the 60’s. He continues using his family farm to raise animals as happy and healthy as possible. Giving each one a naturalistic enclosure and providing the proper diet. Cherrice Purvee came from a nursery family. Her Grandad is in the Foliage Hall Of Fame. Family tradition carries on because Crazy Critters Inc. sells crazy unusual plants to generate income for the growing animal rescue. This is the last stop for these wayward reptiles. Both Breanna and Kenneth III sit as board members to help support the continued growth.

Mission:

Our missions are: to end exotic pet abuse, neglect, and misunderstanding through our rescue; and promote conservation through responsible pet ownership.

Because of the lack of consistency in regulation, it is nearly impossible to determine how many exotic species are privately owned; estimates are as high as 20.3 million individuals. Currently, there are over 13 million reptiles including snakes (venomous and non-venomous), crocodilians, and lizards housed in private residences. In addition, it is estimated that 15,000 non-human primates live as exotic pets.

“Facts Of Life”

There are literally thousands of groups supporting exotic animal ownership.
There are so many private owners that argue, exotic animals are no more dangerous than a domestic dog.
The majority of organizations acknowledge that there are those individuals that should not be allowed to keep exotic species because they either cannot properly care for them
There is a value to each animal It is a known fact that a large percentage of people breed certain species to participate in the illegal black market trade in wildlife or wildlife parts.
Most people can not give the needed husbandry for the exotic animal. Furthermore, exotic animal owners love their pets and think of them as a member of the family.

Ten large tortoises found their way from the left enclosures to our farm.

Sponsors:

When you donate at the Savior, Protector, or Rescue Sponsorship Level, your company will receive the following benefits:

Advertising on our Facebook Page
Advertising on our internet site
Advertising on our various other social media platforms.
Your company logo and mission statement or slogan will be viewed by thousands.
We are open to ideas! Tell us how we can show support for your support!
We will provide correspondence of any project that is funded. Just like we keep the people who bring their pets here informed of the health and wellness. We are sure you would love to see how a project progresses. There is no better way to measure the impact of any grant or sponsorship we may be blessed with. Not only does sharing this info inform you it will entertain.
Contentment There’s no better feeling than helping an animal in need. Not only will you be aware of your good deed, but we’ll also make sure everyone else in Florida is, too.

The List

Here is a list of the basic items we need on a regular basis. If you or someone you knows has them laying around please let us know! A penny saved is a penny earned!