Welcome to Southern Idaho Reptile Rescue
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Created by reptile keepers, for reptile keepers
Southern Idaho Reptile Rescue was founded by reptile owners, for reptile owners (and their reptiles). We are a state licensed and federally recognized 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization. Our primary mission is to educate and inspire owners on the wonders of reptile keeping. Additionally, we are dedicated to the rescue and preservation of all types of reptiles. When pet owners are unwilling or unable to tend to their animals for any reason, we step in and offer a safe place for rehabilitation and rehoming. Located in Buhl, Idaho, Southern Idaho Reptile Rescue specializes in offering top of the line care education and adoption services.
GET TO KNOW US
Southern Idaho Reptile Rescue was founded in 2019 by three long-time, passionate reptile enthusiasts with a vision to make a difference for reptiles in the state of Idaho. As private keepers, we noticed that there already existed numerous organizations that helped rescue many species of animals, from dogs and cats to birds and livestock, but there were few such facilities or refuges for unwanted or rescued reptiles.
Reptile owners had limited outlets to relinquish ownership if needed nor was there an abundance of resources available to acquire accurate, reliable information on the care and husbandry of reptiles as pets. In addition, native and non-native species were being destroyed by state facilities and other animal rescue agencies solely due to lack of knowledge regarding care and housing of these amazing creatures – native and exotic. In response, Southern Idaho Reptile Rescue was founded.
Today, SIRR consists of a dedicated team of volunteers and a varied network of shelters and rescues in multiple states across the Midwest. Based in Buhl, Idaho, SIRR works closely with Idaho Fish and Game, U.S. Fish and Wildlife, Idaho Department of Agriculture, and Idaho law enforcement officers to care for and house unwanted or seized reptiles from across the state.
A large portion of the animals under our care were abandoned, abused, severely neglected, or confiscated from individuals who possessed them irresponsibly or illegally. SIRR makes every effort possible to locate a permanent residence for the animals, including adoption of legal pets in Idaho. However, many will remain at SIRR for the rest of their natural lives. An unfortunate commonality for many rescued reptiles is that care prior to rescue has typically degraded to a point of harm and is minimal or nonexistent upon relinquishment. As a result, many reptiles face injuries that are debilitating and irreversible, and will require special care for the remainder of their lives.
SIRR strongly believes that “Conservation begins with Education.” A majority of our efforts and energy is put into educating the public about reptiles and the importance they have in our ecosystem, as well as the joy they can bring when properly kept in captivity. SIRR works closely with the local community and general public to host and promote educational events and `opportunities. SIRR is also active in promoting educational campaigns online through both our website and multiple social media platforms.
OUR FUTURE
An open-to-the-public Wildlife Education and Conservation Center Facility plan is currently being drafted, and is a longtime dream of SIRR founders. As a state recognized and federally registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, we depend on donations and contributions from sponsors and partners to continue to facilitate rescue and education endeavors in Southern Idaho. For more information of SIRR such as adoption availability, volunteer opportunities, donations, or to book an event, please contact us at southernidahoreptilerescue@gmail.com
Interested in adopting a reptile?
Need a home for your reptile?
Schedule an event with us
Do you have a passion or interest in owning a reptile yourself? Are you a professional keeper, or is this your first rodeo? Either way, you’ve come to the right place! Southern Idaho Reptile Rescue’s primary goal is to help our rescues reptiles find permanent homes. If you’re interested in adoption, contact us to see what we have available. If you got questions or hesitations, don’t hesitate to ask! Southern Idaho Reptile Rescue has the experience and resources to make your adventure into reptile keeping a successful one.
We understand. Life happens, and sometimes plans change. If you find yourself in this position and need to rehome your pet, making sure that they will be safe and cared for is top priority, and we assure you, we here at Southern Idaho Reptile Rescue will go the distance to help place your pet in a safe home. We’ve been keeping and rescuing reptiles for decades, and well make sure that your pet is taken care of until a new home can be found. Contact us for more information.
In addition to rehabilitation and adoption services, we also offer live presentations and interactive, educational opportunities for small groups. If you’d like to book an presentation for your scouting group, science class, or church event, contact us using the form below or give us a call and we’ll get back to you with more information.
Want to get involved?
Southern Idaho Reptile Rescue is a registered 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization that was founded with one thing in mind: stewardship. We believe that careful regard of all animals is our responsibility as humans, and our passion for reptiles makes the task an easy one. Though we specialize in reptiles, we’ve had all types of animals come through our doors and helped them to find loving homes. If you’re interested in participating in or supporting our rescue efforts in any way, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.
