The popular movie Jungle Book left the general population with the assumption that tigers have a hunger for boys named Mowgli. Melody Warner, Instructor of the Veterinary Science Program, hopes her students from the New Castle Career Center will have a different assumption after traveling to a big cat rescue. The Exotic Feline Rescue Center (EFRC) is a rescue center that gives big cats a second chance.

Located in Center Point, Indiana, EFRC provides permanent homes for exotic felines that have been abused, abandoned, or for a variety reasons have nowhere to live. Housing about 200 exotic felines, the EFRC is one of the largest rescue centers in the United States. Not only does the EFRC rescue and house these creatures, but they also offer tours to educate the public about big cats. Founded in 1991, EFRC believes that these felines have much to give and deserve to be treated in a humane manner.

“We go on this trip to expose students to the exotic cat issues,” explains Warner. “We take the tour and then are able to visit the clinic and ask questions that we might have. The trip is very beneficial to my students because it brings light to another career option. It also educates them on why exotic felines are not to be a family pet.”

The New Castle Career Center has visited the EFRC for the past seven years. The students appreciate being exposed to rescues that are outside the box of their daily norms. After experiencing the trip, students are able to come home and explain why exotic animals should never be family pets. They also gain an understanding for wildlife preservation and how important it is to be properly educated on all varieties of animals.

The Veterinary Science Career Program gives students the opportunity to learn animal anatomy, physiology, and medical terminology. While studying large and small animal disease and infection control they also gain experience in animal handling and grooming. For more information about the Veterinary Science Program visit their website at NCCareerCenter.org.