Our rescue relies solely on donations and adoption fees to continue our vital work. Like most reptile and exotic animal rescues, we are extremely overwhelmed by the demand and need for our services. Every day, we receive numerous calls for assistance, stretching our resources to the limit. It is essential for people to thoroughly research a pet before deciding to bring one home, as many exotic animals require specialized care that can be both time-consuming and costly. Proper education and preparation can help ensure better outcomes for both the pets and their owners.
Working together with our community in various ways, we can better support these unique animals and ensure they receive the care they deserve. This includes educational outreach to inform potential pet owners about the responsibilities and challenges of owning exotic pets, as well as fostering partnerships with local businesses, veterinarians, and schools to create a network of support.
We have microchipped approximately 100 iguanas and tegus since the law changed in 2021. All pet iguanas and tegus must be microchipped and permits are now required per Florida state law.
We are still working on this. Please check back in with us soon!
I am a wife, mother of four, and grandmother of one. I am one of the foster homes. I have had a love of all animals, but especially reptiles since I was a young child. When we moved to Florida 7 years ago, I was able to fulfill my dream, and we now own several snakes, lizards, and even tarantulas. I love being able to give reptiles a second chance at finding amazing, loving homes.
From Southern California, I spent my youth in the desert looking for reptiles & amphibians. We moved to Louisiana after the ‘94 Northridge Earthquake, and then Hurricane Katrina wiped my life away. My family started the move to PA and started fresh. We started our rescue organization and started doing educational programs after my divorce
From Southern California, I spent my youth in the desert looking for reptiles & amphibians. We moved to Louisiana after the ‘94 Northridge Earthquake, and then Hurricane Katrina wiped my life away. My family started the move to PA and started fresh. We started our rescue organization and started doing educational programs after my divorce, and the rest is history. I founded KHI, and our focus is outreach education, consulting for Law Enforcement and wildlife agencies, and providing training and lectures. We have assisted in several cruelty investigations for Humane Societies, SPCA., and conducted training seminars and lectures for Humane Law Enforcement and Wildlife Agencies. Conservation through Education is key.
I love all animals and I'd say I specialize in hopeless cases. For some reason, animals that are supposed to die come to me and thrive. I have experience with many different animals including big cats and exotics. Love snakes of any kind and most reptiles too. Bugs are usually a no for me, but I've recently been overcoming a fear of spid
I love all animals and I'd say I specialize in hopeless cases. For some reason, animals that are supposed to die come to me and thrive. I have experience with many different animals including big cats and exotics. Love snakes of any kind and most reptiles too. Bugs are usually a no for me, but I've recently been overcoming a fear of spiders, so I have 2 currently. A special needs fat tail gecko that Lauren gave me, who I spoil rotten. I also have a big ass boa who's around 16 years old that Lauren also put in my care, I love her with my whole heart and she's the sweetest snake ever. No kids but a very supportive and understanding partner. I am also a dog trainer and do daycare, walking, etc for barter or discounted rates.
I am the lead volunteer, I’ve been working with the rescue for a few years now, and I’ve adopted almost all my pets from them, including one of my two hedgehogs, 6 geckos, and a ball python. I’m currently in school for herpetology and spend most of my free time taking care of or spending time with my reptiles, fish, and small animals. Check out this photo of Rosemary and me!
I’ve been passionate about reptiles and exotics since 2018 when I started volunteering at the rescue, initially to practice my photography. Since then, I’ve gone off to study photography in college, but I always come back to help out during breaks. One of my favorite projects was creating a photo essay that highlighted just how unique and
I’ve been passionate about reptiles and exotics since 2018 when I started volunteering at the rescue, initially to practice my photography. Since then, I’ve gone off to study photography in college, but I always come back to help out during breaks. One of my favorite projects was creating a photo essay that highlighted just how unique and special this rescue is to me. I love that working here lets me explore new animals and push my own boundaries. Recently, I had the fun challenge of fully creating the rescue’s website! Oh, and I can’t forget to mention my 12-year-old pet turtle, Sheldon, who’s been with me on this wild adventure. I love being a part of this community!
I’m one of the foster homes. I moved to Florida from New Jersey in 2022. I’ve worked mostly with dogs since I was 18, and rescue is my passion. I’ve always had a love for reptiles, but it really blossomed when I met my best friend who now owns her reptile rescue in New Jersey. I adopted one snake, and I took two of her rescues in. That st
I’m one of the foster homes. I moved to Florida from New Jersey in 2022. I’ve worked mostly with dogs since I was 18, and rescue is my passion. I’ve always had a love for reptiles, but it really blossomed when I met my best friend who now owns her reptile rescue in New Jersey. I adopted one snake, and I took two of her rescues in. That started my true love for reptiles, and I have been learning nonstop since.
I am a Mom before anything else to my two kids that I brought into this world, as well as all of my "extras."
I have been involved with rescues for over 20 years with cats, then dogs (I still run a dog rescue), and last but certainly not least, reptiles and exotics.
I am a Director with Hernando Reptile and Exotics Rescue. I have been invol
I am a Mom before anything else to my two kids that I brought into this world, as well as all of my "extras."
I have been involved with rescues for over 20 years with cats, then dogs (I still run a dog rescue), and last but certainly not least, reptiles and exotics.
I am a Director with Hernando Reptile and Exotics Rescue. I have been involved with this rescue since the beginning by doing all the paperwork for the rescue to become a 501(c)(3). Due to recent changes, I will now be "paper-pusher extraordinaire" for the rescue, which is exactly where I love to be.
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If you have an injured wild animal, including a tortoise, please bring it to the nearest emergency animal hospital. We are not a wildlife rehabilitation center and are not equipped or permitted to accept injured wild animals.
If you need help locating your nearest emergency animal hospital, please message us and we will do everything we can to locate one closest to you.
FWC: 888-404-3922