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How We Got Started

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I (Rachel) have had a fascination with chelonians since I can remember. I rescued my first box turtle in high school back when I lived on the east coast and have had several different species of tortoises over the years since then. I had always dreamt of having a large tortoise of my own one day happily grazing in the back yard.

Shortly after moving to Texas I volunteered as a foster home and adoption counselor for several local dog rescues. After six years of being involved in rescue, rehabilitation and adoption counseling I was pretty familiar with the rescue world. I decided once we moved to the hill country I wanted to adopt a large tortoise (African Sulcata to be exact). Surely there had to be one in need of a new home! To my surprise I could not find any local tortoise rescues and to be honest I was disappointed.

 

--Insert Long Story Here--

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In January of 2015 I felt there was a need, so I decided to start my own rescue for unwanted turtles & tortoises. In December of 2015 we were designated a 501(c)(3) charity with the IRS.

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The response has been astounding! I knew there was a need for a local chelonian rescue but I didn't realize how great that need really was (is)! We have also had incredible donor support from day one!

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The most rewarding thing for me is to match up adopters with the turtle or tortoise of their dreams. Now I get to make dreams come true for others, what could be better than that?!

Apache Rachel looking foward.jpeg

Rachel with Apache, a red-footed tortoise.

PO Box 81
Johnson City, Texas 78636

 

2026 Eden Animal Sanctuary. All Rights Reserved.

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