Lions Tigers & Bears is a no contact, no kill, no breed animal rescue/sanctuary and educational facility based in east San Diego County. We are one of the few exotic animal sanctuaries in the US and provide rescue and rehabilitative care for big cats, bears, and other exotic animals. 

Our sanctuary is accredited by both the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS) and the American Sanctuary Association (ASA). This means that we meet or exceed the highest standards of care and safety for our resident animals.

These regulating bodies set stringent criteria for sanctuaries, including habitat design, veterinary care, enrichment programs, and sustainability, helping distinguish legitimate sanctuaries from substandard ones.

At LTB, our mission is to provide a safe and loving home for animals rescued from various situations and shape their habitats in a way that allows them to live with dignity, comfort, and as naturally as possible. Here’s a quick look at our meticulous efforts and unwavering dedication to creating suitable habitats for our rescued animals.

Rescue and Rehabilitation

At Lions Tigers & Bears, our mission is deeply rooted in rescuing and providing a nurturing home for animals that have endured the hardships of abuse, abandonment, or exploitation. When these animals arrive at our sanctuary, they become the focal point of our dedicated care and attention.

Each one undergoes a thorough assessment aimed to determine their specific physical and emotional needs. This critical step ensures their well-being and sets the very foundation upon which we build a brighter and more promising life for each of our animal residents.

Habitat Design and Safety Measures

Designing habitats that prioritize safety, comfort, and species-appropriate conditions lies at the heart of our mission. We understand that the well-being of our animal residents depends on the environments they call home. That’s why we strive to adapt existing enclosures to meet the unique needs of each individual animal or construct entirely new ones when necessary. 

While comfort and species-appropriate conditions are paramount, safety always remains our top priority. Our protective barriers and enclosures are rigorously inspected and maintained to ensure that they meet or exceed industry standards. This safeguards our residents and protects our dedicated staff that works closely with these magnificent creatures.

Replicating Natural Environments for Animal Well-being

LTB creates habitats that closely resemble an animal's natural environment to ensure the physical and psychological well-being of the sanctuary's residents. We plan each enclosure to provide ample room for the animals to roam, explore, and express natural behaviors. In the wild, these creatures would have extensive territories, so our sanctuary aims to offer them a comparable sense of freedom.

We also offer various enrichment opportunities within the wildlife enclosures to stimulate their minds and engage their physical abilities. Enrichment can take the form of puzzle feeders, climbing structures, hiding spots, and even elements like rocks, trees, or water features that encourage exploration and play.

Our team works to recreate the specific ecosystems where these animals would thrive in the wild. This includes replicating the types of vegetation, terrain, and climate conditions that are native to their regions of origin. At LTB, we boast diverse biodiversity and an ecosystem of rolling savannahs for our lions, dense forests for tigers, rugged terrain for bears, etc.

Our habitats are designed to encourage natural behaviors. For instance, tigers can stalk through tall grasses and take refuge in forested areas, allowing them to express their hunting and hiding instincts. Lions have space to roam and socialize as they would in the wild, promoting natural social behaviors.

Animal-Specific Care

In addition to providing a natural environment, we ensure that each animal receives the specialized care they deserve. From diet to veterinary care to socialization opportunities, our focus is on tailoring our approach to cater to the unique requirements of each animal. LTB is home to lions, tigers, bears, jaguars, leopards, and bobcats, and each of these animals gets specialized diets and veterinary help for their needs.

LTB also creates opportunities for social interaction and enrichment activities that are tailored to the specific needs of each animal resident. This approach ensures their physical health and nurtures their mental and emotional well-being, allowing them to thrive in the sanctuary environment we've created for them.

Education and Outreach

Beyond our primary mission of providing a safe haven for animals, Lions Tigers & Bears actively engages with the public to foster a deeper understanding of our mission and its broader significance. Our commitment to education and outreach plays a pivotal role in our efforts to protect and care for our animal residents.

One of the key avenues through which we achieve this is through our educational programs and guided tours. These initiatives offer a unique and immersive visitor experience, allowing them to connect with the rescued animals and gain insight into their stories and habitats without actually touching them.

During these tours, visitors have the opportunity to learn about the individual animals, their unique backgrounds, and the challenges they've faced. This personal connection and bond raises awareness about the importance of animal welfare and conservation.

Our educational programs also extend to schools and community groups, where we provide resources and information to enhance understanding of the animals we care for and the broader issues surrounding wildlife conservation. These programs aim to inspire the next generation of conservationists and animal advocates.

Conservation and Advocacy

Lions Tigers & Bears doesn't limit its impact solely to the care of animals within its sanctuary walls. Instead, our organization extends its reach far beyond, actively engaging in efforts to conserve wildlife and advocating for the welfare of captive animals on a broader scale.

We are a vocal advocate for the welfare of captive wildlife, using our platform to raise awareness about the challenges and ethical considerations surrounding the keeping of exotic animals in captivity. We actively engage with policymakers, wildlife experts, and the public to promote the establishment of stringent legislation that safeguards the well-being of exotic animals. Through collaborations and partnerships, we strive to make a meaningful and lasting impact on the broader conservation landscape and the lives of animals worldwide.

But we cannot do this alone. The care, maintenance, and continued improvement of these habitats require resources and support from compassionate individuals like you. Your donation can make a significant impact on the lives of our animal residents, allowing us to provide the best possible care and continue our vital work in rescuing and rehabilitating exotic animals. Visit our website today to donate and be a part of our mission.