Pearson

Sponsored by
Amber Cannon,
Buddy,
Melissa Serenda & Steve Smith,
Ian Jones,
Bonnie Hollis,
Megan Smith,
Barbara Lob,
Jordan, Matt, Duck, Dot, Mable, Billie Holiday,
Jordan Kush,
Jean O'Neil,
Colleen Sullivan,
Mark Kocab,
May Schutte

We rescued Pearson from the Cricket Hollow Zoo in Manchester, Iowa, where he had been confined and neglected his entire life. Pearson and more than 400 other animals were removed from the zoo because of “deplorable” conditions—and that’s putting it lightly. We witnessed some of the most horrific suffering we’ve ever come across at this zoo. Animals were trapped in tiny, filthy cages with no access to drinking water or shelter from the elements. This zoo was a place of immense suffering, with animals perishing from neglect and some even resorting to self-harm due to their desperation.  

During his first few months at sanctuary, Pearson was very timid and easily frightened. He hid behind wheelbarrows and made himself appear as small as possible, as if he just wanted to remain unseen. Pearson was cautious in his every move. But, after a few months, something glorious happened! Right in the middle of an ordinary day, Pearson suddenly came out from the shadows, stood tall, and unfurled his gorgeous feathers. Time stood still for several moments as his caretakers and his fellow residents looked on in awe. He is magnificent. 

The fears from Pearson’s past are slowly but steadily fading with time, and he’s gaining more confidence each day. Pearson's transformation is an enduring reminder of the power of sanctuary.