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From Internship to Impact: Caring for Rescued Exotic Animals

After graduating from WFS, Isaiah Gaines ’21 attended Indiana University, where he earned his B.S. in animal behavior in 2025.
During the summer after his junior year, Isaiah took on an internship at the Exotic Feline Rescue Center (EFRC) in Center Point, Indiana, a role that quickly turned into something more. “I ended up meshing so well that after graduation, I was offered a full-time position as an animal keeper,” he shared.

Founded in the early 1990s, the EFRC serves as a rescue center and forever home for exotic felines that have been abused, unwanted, or neglected. What began with just three animals has grown into a 300-acre sanctuary caring for over 200 animals across more than a dozen species. 

In his current role, no two days look exactly the same. “Every day is a bit different, but for the most part, each day we clean enclosures, prepare and feed animal diets, and administer medication to animals who need it.” In addition to animal care, Isaiah serves as a tour guide when needed and supports fundraising efforts at the facility.

The center is home to a wide variety of animals, from lions and tigers to wolves and bears. While Isaiah originally planned to pursue a more traditional path as a zookeeper, his experience at the rescue center shifted his perspective. “That’s still possibly in my future. That being said, I found a passion in helping to care for these specific animals, many of whom were kept in circuses, magic shows, and unfit private care facilities.”

What motivates him most is the impact of this work. “Most of these animals would realistically not be put into a zoo, so I derive a lot of joy from knowing we’re providing them with a happy and safe environment to live out the rest of their lives.”

Looking ahead, Isaiah hopes to continue expanding his experience. “In the near future, I plan on moving to New Zealand, where I’ll hopefully be able to continue working with different animals in a hands-on capacity, and also possibly pursue a career in academia afterward.”
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