Charzilla’s Reptile Rescue began with the love of a 10-year-old girl named Charleigh, who has always had a special connection with reptiles. From the moment she brought home her first bearded dragon, she dreamed of helping reptiles who didn’t have a safe place to go.

Together with her mom, Charleigh turned that dream into Charzilla’s Reptile Rescue — a small but mighty family-run effort in San Diego, California, dedicated to giving reptiles a second chance at life.

Over the years, we’ve seen firsthand how many reptiles suffer from neglect, improper care, or are surrendered when their owners can no longer provide for them. We’ve taken in lizards, snakes, turtles, and geckos — each with their own story of resilience.

But we’ve also seen something beautiful: every rescue teaches people that reptiles are not “scary” or disposable — they’re intelligent, sensitive creatures who deserve compassion.

Now, we’re taking the next big step: becoming a fully licensed 501(c)(3) nonprofit reptile rescue so we can expand our impact. We want to provide proper medical care, safe housing, and education for families who want to learn how to care for these amazing animals responsibly.

Charzilla’s Reptile Rescue isn’t just about saving reptiles — it’s about inspiring kindness, education, and respect for all living things.

Your support helps us turn Charleigh’s dream into a lasting mission that will rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome reptiles for years to come.