Little Bear Sanctuary

Christopher Vane’s commitment to saving animals in need is apparent in every facet of his life. Harnessing his life experiences, creativity, and desire to provide a better world for animals, he lives each day caring for hundreds of previously abused  animals. His deep passion for animal rescue is something he attributes to his mother, Ursula.

 

Ursula spent her life caring for animals and she often dreamed of building a large barn on her property, one that could be a safe haven for animals in need. Unfortunately, she passed away before she could fulfill that dream. Making a difference in the world – for both animals and people – was a value Ursula imprinted in Christopher early on and, a realtor at the time, he was never truly fulfilled – always yearning to do more.

 

When Christopher met Randy (now his husband) everything clicked. The connection between the couple was immediate and powerful, and one passion that truly bonded them was their deep affection and respect for animals.

 

“My mom always told me, ‘If you go out on a limb, take someone with you so you’re not alone,’” Christopher said. “When I met Randy, everything changed. Our path together became really clear.”

 

Christopher and Randy channeled Ursula’s dream of that one barn and purchased a 10-acre property in Punta Gorda, Florida. They gathered resources, sharpened the plans that had long been in the works, and officially established Little Bear Sanctuary, naming the sanctuary in honor of Ursula which translates to “little bear” in Latin.

 

In an effort to save resources, Christopher became a veterinary technician (knowledge and expertise that would later prove to be invaluable). As quickly as the sanctuary’s fencing and structures were built, the need to rescue abused animals grew just as quickly (if not quicker). Fortunately, Little Bear Sanctuary had the opportunity to expand their property lines an additional 20 acres. And, shortly after, Christopher left the veterinary office and now devotes his days to caring for their resident animals.

 

To date, Little Bear Sanctuary has rescued over 200 animals, each one facing an incredibly bleak future if Christopher hadn’t intervened. While a lot has changed over the past few years, Little Bear Sanctuary’s mission has remained unwavering: to provide a permanent home for abandoned or disregarded animals. The sanctuary is open to all animals in need, affording animals an opportunity to live out their lives in peace.

 

As Little Bear Sanctuary continues to grow, it’s imperative that they further develop and expand the property, community outreach avenues, and animal grounds to handle the intake. Prices for lumbar, supplies, literally everything has increased significantly. The sanctuary’s needs include:

 

1) Complete in-house clinic in progress! Our Charity Gofundme is complete! Thank you to everyone who generously donated!

2) Community garden space - we have 1 acre set aside that needs to be properly fenced and greenhouse installed.

 

3) Expanded electrical services - it's that time! This is our first immediately needed asset.

 

4) Established, functioning water well - once electrical is set this is next - water supply for 20 acres!

 

5) Powerful water filtration system - as you can imagine it's so important to have the well water be purified for drinking for the animals and facilities. 

 

6) Septic system for public facilities (i.e., office, tiny homes for overnight visitors, and a public space that can be utilized for event opportunities that will directly support the sanctuary)

7) Proper build for greeting center with public facilities with paved parking, including much needed night lighting for security.

8) Continued improvement of perimeter fencing and security. 

Christopher and the Little Bear Sanctuary team strive daily to provide a cruelty-free environment and safe community haven for animals in need, and receiving financial help to further the development of the sanctuary is essential. Your support allows them to continue creating a better world for animals.

 

Please check out Little Bear Sanctuary's site (littlebearsanctuary.org) to learn about sponsoring any resident animal for $25/month. Choose an animal of your choice, or notate animal type (pig, goat, etc.) and the team will match you with a resident.

We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and completely rely on public donations to remain open and give the ultimate care to our residents. We need our help. Please consider becoming a monthly donor. A $5 monthly donation from everyone who sees this fundraiser will create miracles for Little Bear Sanctuary.