Sanctuary

A lifelong home for domesticated chinchillas who need safety, comfort and lasting care.

A planned GCA program in Illinois. Fundraising is underway; the rescue & sanctuary is not yet open.

LIFELONG RESIDENCY

A good rest of their lives.

Lifetime sanctuary

The sanctuary building will provide permanent residency for domesticated chinchillas who have faced neglect, abandonment or other hardship. This is their home for life, with enriching habitats, veterinary support and care shaped around each resident’s needs.

A different purpose from rescue

Our separate rescue building provides temporary quarantine, rehabilitation and preparation for vetted pet homes. Sanctuary residents will have a permanent home here. These two programs serve different needs, with the same commitment to animal welfare.

Explore the rescue program

A home and a place to learn.

At GCA Rescue & Sanctuary, chinchillas will never be allowed to breed. Our purpose is rescue, rehabilitation, placement in vetted pet homes and lifelong sanctuary care.

Veterinary support

A planned onsite veterinary care area will support the animals in GCA’s care. GCA intends to pursue collaboration with the University of Illinois veterinary teaching hospital in Urbana; no partnership is yet confirmed.

Education that serves their welfare

The sanctuary is not a zoo, aquarium or amusement attraction. Its purpose is lifelong care and education. The museum and teaching spaces will share chinchilla history and responsible care, while residents remain free to rest, hide and retreat from view.

Support that lasts

Our sustainability plan combines public education and visits, a store and online sales, modest rescue rehoming fees, volunteers, recurring donations and sponsorships.

THE GCA VISION

Daily care with a long view.

Comfort and natural behaviors

Planned habitats provide opportunities to climb, hide, rest and choose whether to be visible. Compatible companionship and individual care needs will guide arrangements.

Care records that stay with each animal

Individual identification, daily observations and veterinary histories will help us follow each resident’s health, comfort and changing needs throughout their life.

Observation with respect

Visits will center on learning, never animal entertainment. Barriers and retreat spaces protect residents’ privacy and rest. Animals will never be expected to perform or remain visible.

People who can sustain the work

An onsite caretaker, care staff and committed volunteers will support daily operations, backed by GCA leadership and financial oversight.

A COMMUNITY EFFORT

Help make this possible.

Support the project through Global Chinchilla Alliance, share your skills or introduce us to others who can help.

Ways to help

HEALTH INFORMATION

Understand Streptococcus equi subsp. zooepidemicus disease.

Read the research, learn about risks to other animals and people, and find practical questions to discuss with your veterinarian.

Visit the health information page