About Us

SEMO Exotic Sanctuary

Welcome to SEMO Exotic Sanctuary

At SEMO Exotic Sanctuary, we're more than a rescue—we're a family. Nestled on a quiet property in Doniphan, Missouri, our mission is to provide a loving, lifelong home to exotic animals who need a second chance. Many of our residents have come from the pet trade, private owners, or difficult situations, and we consider it an honor to give them the safety, stability, and enrichment they deserve.

Founded out of compassion, faith, and a deep love for animals, SEMO Exotic is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Our sanctuary is USDA licensed, and we strive to meet and exceed the highest standards of animal care. Whether it’s diapering a capuchin, offering enrichment activities, or sitting with one of our elderly residents in the sun, everything we do is rooted in love.

Proverbs 12:10 – "The godly care for their animals."

We are not currently open for public tours, but we are working toward future educational experiences, a mobile petting zoo, and programs for individuals with special needs. We dream of one day building an educational venue where everyone, especially those who need it most, can experience the joy of connecting with animals.

Thank you for taking the time to learn about us. Whether you donate, volunteer, share our posts, or simply send love—you're part of this mission, too.

With love,
Terri, Jeff, and the SEMO Exotic Family

Video

Love Lives Here

Some moments don’t need explaining. At SEMO Exotic, every animal is treated like family—because they are. Whether it's a monkey's favorite toothbrush or a simple “I love you” at bedtime, these quiet moments are at the heart of everything we do.

🎥 Lexi & Jeff – Gentle grooming time with her beloved toothbrush
🎥 Simon & Terri – A heartfelt moment of rocking and singing “I love you”

Watch below and feel the love that makes SEMO Exotic so special.

Some moments don’t need explaining.

At SEMO Exotic, every animal is treated like family—because they are. Whether it's a monkey's favorite toothbrush or a simple “I love you” at bedtime, these quiet moments are at the heart of everything we do

A moment with Simon

At 20 years old, Simon is not just a capuchin—he's part of the family. In this tender moment, he snuggles in for comfort and connection as Terri gently rocks him and softly sings “I love you.” It's these quiet, loving exchanges that define life at SEMO Exotic.