Center For Animal Research & Education (CARE)

The Center for Animal Research & Education is a nonprofit wildlife sanctuary on 22 acres in Bridgeport, Texas, providing permanent care for more than 40 exotic animals. CARE focuses on animals that require specialized attention, including elderly, sick, and special-needs residents, and does not breed, buy, sell, or trade animals. Its collection includes big cats such as lions, tigers, cougars, bobcats, lynx, and margays, along with ring-tailed lemurs, a llama, and a tortoise.

Public access is centered on guided walking tours rather than a conventional zoo layout. Tours last about two hours and combine animal viewing with information about each resident's background and care. Guests remain accompanied by a guide and do not have physical contact with the animals. CARE also conducts research intended to improve the health and welfare of captive animals, giving the sanctuary an additional focus beyond rescue and public education. The experience is particularly suited to travelers interested in rescued exotic animals, big cat welfare, and the individual stories behind sanctuary residents.