Collection: Peyton

Rescue Story: In 2016, the owner of a Colorado based cub petting and breeding operation was diagnosed with cancer, and could no longer run his profitable business. Turpentine Creek acquired the 12-acre closed-down exhibition facility to enable our rescue of the 115 animals onsite. There, we found big cats suffering in cramped cages with flimsy plywood dens that were dangerously exposed to public areas. Onsite records showed very little history of veterinary care, but revealed that the owner had ties to Joe Exotic, and was breeding his big cats to supply other entities within the cub petting and entertainment industries.

TCWR staff and interns spent six months both onsite caring for the animals, and in the relocation of every animal to accredited sanctuaries throughout the nation. After 6 months, and many miles traveled, all animals were placed in forever homes for a second chance at life and 34 of those animals came to Turpentine Creek. Peyton is one of those 34 animals. 

More about Peyton: Peyton and siblings Blackfire and Rocklyn all suffer from a metabolic bone disease, and upon arriving to TCWR were unable to walk or do much of anything on their own. After intensive rehabilitation they progressed rapidly and were able to be released into a habitat. Peyton is very sweet and the most relaxed of her siblings and frequently enjoys being an observer as they play ball.