Members’ anticipation was high for the opportunity to tour The Lyon Ranch on May 9 – and every expectation was met and exceeded. Rob and Robin Lyon, our hosts and the founders of The Lyon Ranch, along with their daughter Linette, wove fascinating stories about the evolution of the 12-acre property and the lives of the 65 animals and birds who live there.

The Lyon Ranch is a nonprofit that rescues abandoned, ill or abused animals, including Asian camels, ocelots, servals, emus, donkeys, horses and miniature horses, African fox, bush babies (heard of that one?), alligators, dogs, cats, and many exotic birds. Ten of the animals have been trained for Animal Assisted Therapy (including the camels!) and the Lyons trailer them to hospitals, nursing homes and hospices, as well as to schools and corporations.

After touring the barn and various corals to meet some of the larger animals, members were guided to a large deck outside the Lyon’s home to enjoy wine and appetizers while Linette carried out various animals and birds for a meet and greet. How amazing to share a table with a 40-pound serval!

Many thanks for the wonderful afternoon go to the Lyon family for their generous welcome, and to members Tia Pierce, Hope Nisson and Member Engagement Chair Sandee Crisp for all their hard work.