SaveMe, a sanctuary for reptiles and exotic animals
SaveMe helps people to care for their pets, finding suitable homes for some rehabilitated animals, create awareness and reduce the fear of certain animals
As the saying goes: “We fear what we don’t understand.”
These are same words that encouraged Ilanka Nel to start SaveMe Reptile and Exotics Rescue Centre in Lambton after she realised there is a need for reptiles and exotic animals to be rescued.
“I have been rescuing animals all my life. Even as a child people would bring injured cats, dogs and birds to me. All my life I have been doing my best to rescue rehabilitate and rehome animals,” said Ilanka.
SaveMe rescues, saves and rehabilitates unwanted, abused and neglected animals.
“We rescue animals hit by cars or attacked by other animals, snakes that make their way into people’s homes and animals hurt due to veld fires or storms,” said Ilanka.
SaveMe helps people to care for their pets, finding suitable homes for some rehabilitated animals, create awareness and reduce the fear of certain animals such as snakes and create a safe environment for boarding reptiles while their owners are away.
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Educating people about reptiles and exotic animals is Ilanka’s passion and she has dedicated her life to it.
As a mechanical draughts person by profession, she said her work has enabled her to fund her passion.
“My career has provided for me financially to be able to fund my passion. Over the years, I have rescued as many as I financially can,” said Ilanka.
SaveMe also has a shop based in Lambton at Majestic Place.
“People can come in to ask for assistance, advice and education on reptiles.
“Over the years, I have gained experience and knowledge which I want to share with others. It brings me great pleasure when I meet a person who would never touch a snake and ends up leaving with the thought that it’s actually a beautiful animal.”
SaveMe Reptile and Exotics Rescue also conducts an annual reptile expo and convention.
“Education is key. We would like the entire world to see, understand, respect and appreciate all the different animals on our amazing planet,” Ilanka.
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