OkcPets Magazine September 2023

September / October 2023 • OKC Pets 29 Something for Everyone Oklahoma Offers Unique Animal Encounters by Kelsey Warren-Bryant H ave you ever dreamed of getting up close to a wolf, petting a sloth, or even having breakfast with an ele- phant? Across the state, from the northeast- ern Oklahoma town of Eucha all the way toward the southern border in Hugo, there are places that offer unique animal experi- ences fit for avid adventurers and passionate animal lovers alike. Some of these insti- tutions operate as interactive zoos meant to give guests personal interactions with wildlife, and others are nonprofits whose experiences are focused on conservation and education. Whatever wildlife adventure you hope for, it might be closer to you than you think. Check out this list of unique wild adventures you can have right here in Oklahoma. Endangered Ark Foundation A visit to the Endangered Ark Foundation in Hugo is a must for anybody who loves elephants. It is a private nonprofit organi- zation that seeks to maintain a future for Asian elephants and acts as a rescue facility for elephants that need a safe place to call home. A public tour costs $50 per adult and $25 per child aged three through 12, which includes an hour of being up close with the elephants and a chance to feed one. This beautiful elephant roams freely across the landscape. The Endangered Ark Foundation in Hugo aims to pro- vide a home for elephants in need just like this one and encourages people to schedule a visit to learn more about these majestic giants. These foxes enjoy being fed some tasty treats at Nomad’s Animal Encounter in Seminole. Foxes are just one of the many species that guests can expect to interact with during a visit to Nomad’s. Photo courtesy of Nomad’s Animal Encounter.