About Us
Our History
In 1998, while volunteering for dog and cat rescues and the county animal shelter, Jennifer Perez realized the need for a specialized parrot and exotic animal rescue so she began the informal start to the Cali_FID Parrot & Exotics Rescue Sanctuary.
Being a parrot owner herself, and having raised children who loved reptiles, Jennifer began taking in these beautiful creatures.
The name Cali_FID is shorthand for California Feathered Kids, and the term “FID” is the common nickname parrot owners have given their birds.
Since caring for any animal is a multi-person task, Jennifer sought out a local veterinarian who specializes in non-domestic animals and came across the door step of Turlock, California veterinarian Brandon Barrett, DVM. Dr. Barrett is a kind-hearted fellow who shares Jennifer’s passion and interest in exotic animals and the complexities of their care. Consequently, the two have become the “go-to” people for any exotics collected by local animal control officers in the surrounding area.
As time moved forward to the present, Cali_FID has become incorporated and received 501(c)(3) non-profit status from the federal government. Cali_FID was the first 501(c)(3) non-profit organization for exotic species rescue to open in the San Joaquin Valley.
We partner with local veterinarians, pet stores, herpetological societies, Reptile Clubs, Wildlife Rehabilitators, Educators, and other Rescue organizations to improve the lives of these wonderful creatures.