Comments on the Debauchery Event:
Support the Official Move Campaign
We are pleased to have support from the business community, and were thrilled when we were notified that Debauchery intended put on a charity event and name us as beneficiaries. However, as plans for animals trickled back to us, it became clear that there was a problem. We implored Debauchery not to bring animals to the bar, citing very specific concerns: safety, security, and the comfort of the animals involved. In spite of repeated advice against it, Debauchery chose to proceed.
The animals seen at the event did not come from Central Florida Animal Reserve. According to published records, Debauchery contracted with a Sorrento-based entertainment company (http://on.flatoday.com/1pdhYZW).
Central Florida Animal Reserve is home to over 40 big cats that do NOT leave the facility. We are in the midst of a major capital campaign to raise $1 million dollars to move all of the big cats to a larger and better home located in Osceola County. To get there, we need to raise $500,000 to complete the construction of the new site and get the cats there by March of next year.
We want to set the record straight: at no time did Central Florida Animal Reserve approve or support the display of animals at this event. We cannot let well-meaning but misguided individuals to derail the momentum we have built together. We are seeking major gifts of $10,000 and more to keep the construction going.
We have been blessed with many well wishers and many supporters over the years who have appreciated our mission to keep cats AT HOME in a comfortable location where they can be secure and comfortable. We have been applauded for our no-breeding stance, and our emphasis on non-sensationalist approaches to big cats. We applaud the combined efforts of business partners and individuals in helping us meet this goal. But in spite of all our pleas and calls, what we have not seen is that same groundswell of financial support for that stance, and we are in urgent need to continue construction.
Our cats don’t leave their current location, and once in their new home, will NEVER HAVE TO. If you believe as we do, that it is more important to build appropriate sanctuary rather than drag them into bars for entertainment, then vote with your dollars and support CFAR’s Official Move Campaign.