PUNTA GOARDO, Fla. — Jackie Krohn started volunteering two decades ago at Octagon Wildlife Sanctuary in Punta Gorda.
“I just want to try and make a difference in their lives by just helping out,” Krohn said.
Krohn knows all the animals by name — and they respond to her. There are more than 100 animals on this 10-acre refuge. Some of their bears survived abuse.
“They were actually confiscated from a circus where they would perform, and when they wouldn’t perform, they were beaten with pipes,” Krohn said.
Former animal ambassador Charlie the caracal is enjoying retirement here.
“People used to think she was mad because she hissed at us all the time. Well, as we found out that’s how they communicate,” Krohn said.
Big cat Bozu the Barbary lion came as a 1-year-old baby when his owner realized Bozu needed more than he could give. With a glorious two-toned mane now, Bozu the baby showed up with only one tuft of hair.
Krohn has watched all the animals grow. And Blue the peacock is an exception.
The big talker walked in one day off the street, and with a swish of his tail feathers, has never left.
The full proceeds from admissions go to the animals to keep them happy and healthy.
Guided tours at the santuary are on Monday, Thursday and Saturday.