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Safaris Sanctuary

Lori Ensign-Scroggins

Last Updated: 10/8/2009

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Gender: Female
Status: Married
Age: 41
Sign: Aquarius

City: BROKEN ARROW
State: Oklahoma
Country: US
Signup Date: 8/27/2006

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Wednesday, October 14, 2009

Whats YOUR favorite things?
Current mood:

amorous
Category: Pets and Animals

This song was written for Safaris by a dear friend, wildlife rehabilitator, Annette King-Tucker.

I think its awesome! Sing to the tune of "my favorite things"....

"My Favorite Things"

Lions and cougars and tigers all needing

Daily steak dinners each night at their feeding

Monkeys will dine on fresh fruit every day

As winter comes all our help goes away

Cages need cleaning and water needs changing

Cant take a break 'cause the sunlight is fading

Wolves want to play as I pass by their pen

Wake up tomorrow and do it again!

Gators and lizards and snakes that all slither

Need some attention, I'm losing my dithers

Barnyard needs watering, hoses are froze

My fingers are freezing and I cant feel my toes

Kurt just arrives but I send him away

He must get the produce from Reasors today

I will never give up 'cause I work from my heart

If only my body will not fall apart!

When the phone rings!

When the birds scream!

When Im feeling low,

I realize its fall and on top of it all,

There is still the winter to go!

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Monday, August 17, 2009

wanna help out? scout groups need badges?
Category: Pets and Animals

We need volunteers, and helpers... there are many things YOU can do to help.
-ambassador for us, taking safe animals to educational programs.
- come help feed -everyday 8am till 12noon-ish... or just 1 day a week.
- offer to make a pickup of produce, dog food... donations from grocery stores, bring to safaris
- scout groups can decorate an area, come up with toy ideas, landscape the area, make an area more fun for the animals.
- cook! cook up a healthy batch of oatmeal cookies for the monkeys raccoons bears to have a nice treat.
- fruity jello! make some up for the animals.
- make batch of hot pastas/sauce, or oatmeal with brown sugar, cinnamon apples...
--------little things make their lives so much more enriched....
Little things help so much!!
Call us if you think it'd be fun... 357-5683

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Tuesday, August 11, 2009

Safaris newest addition OTTER!
Current mood:

excited

Is this an otter I see before me?

YOU'LL BE SEEING ONE SOON AT SAFARIS OF BROKEN ARROW!!!
ADORABLE.
You'd better believe it! The Asian small-clawed otter is the smallest of the 13 otter species in the world. They are about two feet long (65cm) of which over 1/3 is the distinctive tapering otterine tail. They weigh 6-12 pounds.

As with all otters, you can probably smell them before you see them.

SOOOO?? what is it?

Carnivora

Typically meat-eaters with sharp canine teeth for killing and holding prey and keen slicing cheek teeth for cutting up flesh.

Mustelid

Mustelids have long, thin bodies and short legs - ideal for pushing through dense undergrowth or hunting in tunnels. They can walk on the soles of their feet (like humans) and have specialised skulls with elongated cranium often topped with a narrow crest.

Currently listening:
Tarka the Otter
Release date: 2009-04-07

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Saturday, August 01, 2009

Fall volunteer drive
Category: Pets and Animals

Fall VOLUNTEER Drive
As the kids, our summer volunteers, get ready to go back to school... we need a new crew to help feed the animals!
Any day of th-e week... 1 day a week, 2 days?
We work m-f 8am to 1 ish
Sat & sun 8-12 feeding, 12-5 touring

We need:
- people to help feed the animals
- clean up crew, scoop poop
- people to pick up donations
- people to ambassador Safaris at schools, daycares

Moms? need a mental break with animals? an animal work out regime?

We train, no experience needed, its fun, amazing, educational... so rewarding!

Call us 357-5683

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Monday, July 06, 2009

Raccoon baby rescue
Current mood:

frustrated
Category: Pets and Animals

Just rescued another raccoon baby today. It's so sad because the people didnt realize anything was wrong.
So I wanna make you think for a minute.
Here was the story....
"Found this raccoon, siblings didnt make it. She's soo sweet, we've been sleeping with her, all she wants to do is snuggle. Eating dog food "mush". Has some fleas though. Oh and she's not walking real good on her back legs"
Come to find out they had her for 3 weeks.
Reality when I got her...
About 8 weeks old, lethargic, white gums, anemic, flea infested horribly, neurological problem with back legs, probably dietary deficiency.
Yes she seems very sweet and loveable, she's sick and weak.
A healthy baby raccoon, is playful, very mischievous, mouthy teething, chatters all the time. This was not a healthy raccoon.
90% of the time when we get an "amazingly sweet" exotic animal... it's sick. Appears to be so loveable, and WOW an amazingly sweet "exotic animal".
They aren't meant to be house pets. Wild instincts, wild nature = wild animal.
Please DONT try to be the hero, find an exotic animal, treat it like a dog, not knowing what it really needs, keep it for weeks, and ASSUME it's all ok.
I took this little sweetheart in a little after noon, bathed it 3x by 1:00, sink filled with thousands of fleas! Couldnt bathe her any more safely.
Syringe fed her esbilac milk with nutri cal. Pumped her mouth with nutrical trying to get her sugar levels up, and help the anemia.
3:00 syringe fed again, actually sucked on the syringe "wanting it". She was so exhausted, fell right to sleep.
5:00 fed again, fleas down to a minimal, but some still hanging in there.
IMAGINE how you feel after a couple bug bites, drives you crazy huh? Imagine being totally infested with fleas, and them biting you all over your body, face, legs, privates... and only being a weak baby.
7:00 fed again, she finally tried to lap up the milk nutrical on her own.
And she PEE'D!!!! yeaa!
8:00 Heard her first raccoon chatter, wow, accomplishment.... she's feeling better. Oh and she Poop'ed! Thank God.
Her gums are starting to get a little pink...better.
This is the baby steps of a rescue.... it breaks your heart.
And makes you want to SHAKE the humans, because they think they know what they're doing, and think they're helping... and animals get very sick.

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Sunday, June 28, 2009

A Safari—in Broken Arrow?
Current mood:

blessed
Category: Pets and Animals

Most people associate exotic animals with the wilds of Africa, yet residents of eastern Oklahoma need not travel around the world to enjoy the beauty of rare wildlife. Lions, tigers, and bears can be found closer than you think.

Known as Broken Arrow’s “best kept secret,” Safari’s Interactive Animal Sanctuary is a non-profit organization that currently houses about two hundred rescued exotic animals—everything from big cats and primates to birds and reptiles.

Owner Lori Ensign founded Safari’s in 1995 and has worked tirelessly since then to accommodate the special needs of literally hundreds of homeless animals.

Lori began with a bobcat of her own. She saw an ad in the newspaper and thought it would be “cool” to own a wild cat. It wasn’t until the animal grew that she realized the responsibility. The animal easily litter-box trained and he was good with Lori and a few others, but no one else. He would bite and Lori says she has scars to prove it.

“I was the dummy,” Lori says. But instead of dumping her responsibility on someone else, she owned it. She learned how to care for and feed her unusual pet. Soon, she met others who shared her interest, but not all of these friends shared the responsibility. They, like many others who purchase exotic pets, realized their mistake and asked if she wanted their pets. She took those animals in, and before she knew it, she owned her own zoo, and what started as a hobby eventually became Safari’s.

Lori says that all of the animals at Safari’s are rescued—some from zoos that closed or over bred, but most from people who once thought it would be “neat” to own an exotic animal but quickly found out they were ill-equipped.

Breeders of exotics make thousands of dollars annually. But unfortunately, many of those breeders do not bother to teach the new pet owners how to care for the animals or warn them of the possible dangers of owning pets with wild instincts.

People get these animals home and find out they need special diets or that they don’t train well to a litter box. Many exotics require plenty of socialization to remain tame and some have lots of natural curiosity. Lori explains that some exotics are like having a two-year-old around the house for years.

“People try to have them (exotics) in their homes. They don’t feed them properly. They pull their teeth and pull all their claws. It’s cruel,” says Lori. And by the time these animals reach Safari’s, some are malnourished or even injured.

Lori explains that these animals cannot be turned back to the wild. They have no mother to train them how to hunt and survive, and regular zoos will not take them since there is no paper work tracing the animal back to the wild.

Lori’s joy is to care for these abandoned exotic beauties and her love for them is evident, but it is her goal to educate the public about them. “I hope to work myself out of business,” she says, and she starts with her own volunteers.

Safari’s has no employees—only volunteers. As young as twelve years old, they are taught how to care for the barnyard animals. They learn to feed them, change their water, and scoop the poop.

Safari’s also has a Zoo Mobile that brings the zoo to the classroom or party. An education specialist will teach the children about the different animals and that owning a pet—any pet—is not to be taken lightly.

Safari’s runs on volunteers and donations. “Every penny goes back to the animals, foods, and rescues. It’s all for the animals,” says Lori. Fortunately, some locals businesses, such as grocery stores and restaurants, donate outdated food to the animals, but it’s not always enough and more food must be purchased.

For those considering owning an exotic animal, Lori suggests finding out what it takes to care for them, and a visit to Safari’s is a good place to start. Let Lori or a volunteer give you a personal tour.

Visit with Mufasa, a twelve-year-old African lion that came from a zoo that closed in North Carolina.

Mufasa loves to play “high five” with Lori…through the fence, of course! And listen to his “chuffing,” a purr-like sound that large cats make when content. “Big cats don’t purr,” says Lori. “They chuff.”

See Rocky, a twelve-year-old “liger.” He is a one-thousand-pound cross between a lion and a tiger. Imagine a cat that big! Rocky came with Mufasa from the same zoo.

Then there’s Outlaw, a two-year-old class A miniature horse (under thirty inches tall). Outlaw was a house pet whose owner realized that he would not “house train.”

One of my favorites when I visited was Jacki Leggs, a five-year-old kangaroo. At first, he appeared small and the next minute had his front hoofs on my shoulder trying to steal a snack out of my hands. Jacki Leggs was neutered too early, causing his growth to be stunted, but made him very sweet. He loves to give kisses…and steal snacks!

And listen to the strange hiss of Brutus, a thirteen-year-old alligator who got “too big” for his owner.

There are plenty of barnyard animals in the petting zoo, and treats are available for purchase. There’s a turkey and the some of the prettiest peacocks I’ve seen. Small children love the many baby bunnies hopping around.

But I knew my experience was unusual when I had the chance to hold Pepe, a one-year-old black and white skunk! Don’t worry—he’s been de-scented! Lori explains that skunks need a diet of dog food mixed with fresh vegetables, which made Pepe a hassle for his owner.

And our escort throughout the park was a gorgeous black Great Dane named Izi, who towers over Outlaw, the horse.

Park location: Safari’s is nestled on twelve rolling acres east of Broken Arrow. From the corner of Kenosha (71^stStreet) and 273^rdEast Avenue, travel north 1.3 miles to 58^th Street and turn left into the park.

Entrance fees and hours: Safari’s is open Saturdays 12:00 noon to 5:00 p.m. Adults are $6, and Children and Seniors are $5. Treats are $1 a bag. Tours and group discounts are available.

Donations can be made via PayPal on website: safariszoo.com or mailed to 26881 E. 58^th Street, Broken Arrow, Oklahoma 74014. Those interested in volunteering time at Safari’s are encouraged to call for an appointment.

Contact information: Call 918-357-LOVE or visit safariszoo.com. 0

A story by Tulsa Pets Magazine about Safari's...

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Friday, June 19, 2009

PICS Lions Tigers Tabbys Cougars Liger

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Thursday, June 04, 2009

Finally Moving the Bears!
Current mood:

accomplished
Category: Pets and Animals

Tentatively June 13th Saturday
LUAU Celebration of the NEW long awaited Bear Pen!!!
This ones for you Pete.

Saturday June 13th
Wear your hawaiian gear, get 1/2 price admission

Currently listening:
Jungle Book
By Original Soundtrack
Release date: 2006-08-08

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3 Kudos

Wednesday, May 27, 2009

Letter from Happy Visitor/volunteer for a day
Current mood:

touched
Category: Pets and Animals

Letter from a cool guy who visited us and volunteered last weekend while traveling thru from Massech. to Calif....
Come see for yourself!!!
Lori

----------------- Original Message -----------------
From: TristanLuke
To: Safaris Sanctuary
Date: May 26, 2009 1:56 AM
Subject: Dama Dama

I love you guys and miss you already. Working on a blog post about what a life changing, once-in-a-lifetime experience Safaris was. Thank you, truly, sincerely.

Feeling a male lion roar and petting a cougar while she purred were a dream come true, highlights of my young life to be sure, but feeling Dama Dama (deer) and Jackie Legs (kangaroo) nuzzle my cheek were equally beautiful. Also love Chomper (goose) for attacking me all day. I told my friends I have a new girlfriend named Dama Dama. This was the best way to start a move out west. Could not have been better, and I don't think it could have happened this way anywhere else in the world. Thank you for your trust and generosity. Tired tonight and walking with a limp but couldn't care less. Can't wait to come and get dirty all over again. Two months? Too long!

Tristan

Currently listening:
The Lion King (1997 Original Broadway Cast)
By Elton John
Release date: 1997-11-14

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Wednesday, May 13, 2009

TYLER'S DAY!!
Current mood:

excited
Category: Parties and Nightlife

You are invited to:

"Come and Meet Tyler Rice's Friends at Safari's Exotic Wildlife Sanctuary!!!"

Enjoy meeting a variety of animals like Tigers, Lions, Bears, Lemurs, Skunks, Foxes, Monkeys, Parrots, Rabbits, Wolves, Alligators, Reptiles, Kangeroo, Zebra and so much more. (200+++animals). Get an opportunity to feed and hold some of these exotic beauties and meet rare animals like Rocky the Liger!!!

Date: May 16th, 2009 (Saturday)

Time: 12:00PM-5:00PM

Place: Safari's Exotic Wildlife Sanctuary 26881 E. 58th St. Broken Arrow, OK (918) 357-LOVE www.safarissanctuary.org

Admission Price:

Ages: 13-65 $6.00

Ages: 3-12 $5.00

Ages: 65+ $5.00

Children under 3 are free

(Say you are here for Tyler's Day and receive half off admission for the whole family!!!)

Cost for Treats:

$1.00 for (1) chicken drumstick (feed the lions and tigers)

$8.00 for (10) chicken drumsticks (feed the lions and tigers)

$1.00 for (1) package animal crackers or fruit snacks (for all barnyard animals and bears)

Help Tyler raise money for his animal friends and enjoy a day of fun. All proceeds from admission and treats go directly to the animals. Tyler Rice is excited to show you his friends and let you see what a typical day is like for him at Safari's. We hope to see you out there.

Don't forget your camera!!!

Currently listening:
Welcome to the Jungle: a Rock Tribute to Guns N' Roses
By Various Artists
Release date: 2004-04-05

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Friday, May 08, 2009

Moms get FREE Admission to Safaris!
Category: Pets and Animals

Mothers Day is Sunday!!!
Moms, grand moms, any moms... get free admission to Safaris!
Just bring your kid(s) for proof!
Call 357-5683
Come play with us....

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Thursday, May 07, 2009

Whats new at Safaris? What we need?
Category: Pets and Animals

Checking in with everyone>
Just got in a new huge beautiful iguana, you might have seen him on fox 23, we had to show him off!
Plus we got in a new vervet monkey, some possum babies and raccoon babies, sent to rehabber...gotta love Annette & wildheart ranch.
got some baby geese donated, so cute!
Also found/ended up with a great pyranese girl, Molly. So sweet, just caught her walking down the middle of the street, put up signs, owner called said they didnt want her.
Then rescued a beautiful brindle great dane, looks like he's tiger striped, super sweet.

Wanna learn to work with exotic animals? We can teach you! Give us a call 357-LOVE (5683). Minimum age is 12...

Wanna donate? Hit our paypal, help pay for our cat food expense, got an order of cat food in to be delivered next tuesday, I'll need $1800 by then to pay for it... HELP!!!

Or just wanna donate supplies???
can foods, pastas, sauces, canned veggies. frozen human foods, pizzas, sandwiches, anything human food, gives variety to the animals. Monkeys get bored with same ol, same ol diets. Cannned pedigree dog foods.
operating supplies:
bleach, cleaning supplies, hand/dish soap, paper towels, mops, large trash bags...etc.
towels, pet taxis,
specialized pet foods; Southern Ag carries many of our needs; can ZuPreem feline diet (exotic cat food), Zupreem Primate Dry bag, Zupreem Parrot & Conure Bird pellets, Ferret Diets, Heavy duty toys for the animals.

Like to build??? got lots of building projects. stretching fence. setting posts. welding. digging ditches to run water line,

Like to organize/clean? got lots of animal areas thhat just need tidied up. Storage areas need cleaned up, reorganized. Birds need swept daily, new papers.

Wanna walk the ponies and goats? bathe them, brush them....

If any of this sounds fun, CALL US 357-LOVE (5683)

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Friday, April 17, 2009

SPRING IS HERE AND INFULL FORCE!!
Current mood:SPRINGY
Category: Pets and Animals

Spring is definitely here! We just got a new monkey yesterday that has been in 5 homes. She is sooo sweet but has her moments as with ANY exotic. We just rescued a baby ranch fox with an injured tail today. Sooo cute! Eyes not even open yet..just a little baby so it will be a while before he can come out to play. We named him Ricki Ricardo Safari to go with our other Cinnamon ranch fox Lucy Ricardo Safari. Come out and see us and play with the animals!! The breeders are out in full force so anyone who is a RESPONSIBLE exotic pet owner and know how to care for them give us a call and we will send you in the right direction. Hope to see you all soon!!

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Saturday, April 11, 2009

Easter Weekend come see CRITTERS sat 10-2 at the Harley Dealership on 35th and memorial
Current mood:

chipper
Category: Pets and Animals

We're booked for Easter Fun at The Harley Dealership on Memorial about 35th.
Will be so much fun! We're bringing snakes, fox, lemur, alligator and SKUNK!
Looking forward to seeing you there!
Lori and all our crew at Safaris!!
Any questions 357-LOVE
PLUS our Easter Egg Hunt at Safaris ON Easter EGG Sunday
Park is open 12 noon to 5pm. Hunt starts at 2pm.
Free with paid admission!!! Bring a picnic, lunch, beverages.... and dont forget your camera!
Lori

Currently watching:
It's the Easter Beagle, Charlie Brown (remastered deluxe edition)
Release date: 2008-02-19

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Monday, April 06, 2009

Zookeepers day in the life...........whew
Current mood:

adventurous
Category: Pets and Animals

Wow what a day!!! Started helping feeding the big cats, then over to the inside animals, BATHED the 3 SKUNKS, then BATHED the 3 FERRETS, then BATHED the fennec fox.... all smelling so pretty, clean homes blankets...they really seemed to love it, the good backscratching, softening their fur with conditioners. Makes ya feel good. Then we brought in the pregnant ;lemur, waiting for her to give birth, could be any ssecond, any minute, an day..... we brought her inside the house, with warm towels and freedom to roam and becomfortable. Not trying to gett to close to stress her. Just watching for that moment of birth to be caught.... the beautiful moment.
Then a ferret got in a fight with another ferret, so been doctoring her, hugging, and holding her to help her to relax...forcefeeding food and nutrical in her to keep her strong till we can get her to vet tomorrow.
This is just ONE OF THOSE DAYS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Then we stuffed easter eggs all afternoon for our big easter egg hunt this sunday at 2pm.
Been a busy day....Anyone out there wanna help with these things? Call me and come on down!!! 357-LOVE

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