Tiger Touch is a sanctuary and a place of learning, seeking alternative ways to protect exotic cats from extinction. Founded in 1997 by John and Barbara Williamson, Mary Walker and Nola Fletcher, its mission is: "To kindle love and respect for wildlife, improve the lot of captive animals and their stewards, and offer sanctuary. To promote compassion with effectiveness."

We are called "Tiger Touch" for many reasons: Our wounded planet needs the touch of healing hands. Our rescues need the touch of friendly hands. The hidden promise of new life needs the touch of gentle hands. And the many wonderful lives that share our world touch us, inspiring love and admiration.

The answers are not all here. We are beginning a journey, one that will not end until the future of endangered cats is secure and there is a place of safety and comfort for every captive exotic. Take this journey with us and give it ... in a word ... your own touch. We depend on the support and encouragement of many people. We hope you will take a moment to see the many ways you can make a difference and become a steward of the earth.

Tiger Touch began in a small town in northern Nevada shortly after a California couple retired there. Even before Barbara had cleaned up loose ends from their home in the Santa Cruz redwoods, John had met and loved a magical tiger, a depressed lion, and three indifferent cougars. They were poorly caged, treated badly and mutually hostile.

Their owners were making plans for a "roadside zoo" and were out of town when a pre-arranged school kid tour came to visit. A small child unwatched by his mother, put his arm through the fence for the tiger to taste. The mother turned, saw the situation, and quickly tore her child's arm from a very surprised tiger's mouth. The kid ended with a few surface cuts he could brag about. The mother ended going all the way to the Governor and every law enforcement organization and attorney she could find. The innocent property owner was served notice to remove the cats within 30 days or they would be put down.

At this point the Williamsons became involved. Unable to find any suitable place willing to take the cats, John and Barbara built a facility of their own and assumed responsibility. A lot of local volunteers, generous donors, helpful wildlife inspectors and patient neighbors allowed the transfer to come off without major incident. Before long, the Williamsons became more than a source of food, and the cats became something more than a challenge. Two young women from the area with special talents, and all the cats, joined us in giving Tiger Touch direction.

Tiger Touch is located on 10 acres of land in the Lahontan valley, about 70 miles east of Reno, Nevada at an elevation of just over 4,000 feet above sea level. The air is generally clear with very low humidity. Temperatures range from 100+ at the height of summer to below zero in winter. This environment is well suited for our big cats. The dry desert climate helps control pests, and the fairly remote location provides a quiet environment where the cats feel relaxed and secure. A custom built facility, including a state-of-the-art food preparation area, serves both the cats and the researchers who are responsible for their welfare.

Please note that Tiger Touch is only open to members and their guests at this time.

Tiger Touch, Inc.
PO Box 336, Fallon, Nevada 89407
(775) 423-8309
webmaster@tigertouch.org (website issues) / info@tigertouch.org (all other topics)

Tiger Touch, Inc. is a 501-(c)-3 nonprofit organization. All contributions are tax deductible. All materials on this website (c) 2001, 2005 unless otherwise noted, and are for individual use only. All rights reserved.