The Center for Animal Research and Education (CARE) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to the rescue and long-term care of exotic animals as well as education and research that improve quality of life in captive populations.

Located in Bridgeport, TX, we currently provide a permanent home to over 60 animals including lions, tigers, cougars, bobcats, margay, lynx, ring-tailed lemurs, llama, and a tortoise.

Some of the animals were abandoned, abused, neglected, or exploited. Some were retired from zoos or rehomed from other facilities that could no longer care for them. They each have their unique story. Regardless of where they came from, they are all given a safe home, tremendous love, and world-class husbandry. Our first priority is putting the animals that already call CARE home first, but we try and give a home to animals in need whenever we can. In addition to rescue and animal care, we are passionate about improving husbandry and veterinary practices through education and research. We rely entirely on support from the public through donations. The tireless work of our primarily volunteer staff and the generosity of our donors is the foundation of CARE. It is because of them that our animals not just survive, but thrive.