AN animal lover has issued a desperate plea to raise funds and save his reptile centre.
Brad Martin, from Benfleet, has launched a fundraiser to help save Pearl’s Pythons Sanctuary in Margaretting Road in Writtle, Chelmsford, after he was given a final notice of May 1.
The 33-year-old needs to raise £2,000 to cover the cost of his animals activities licence, a condition for remaining at the property, as well as food and medical care for his reptiles.
33 reptiles – The animals could have to be rehomed (Image: Brad Martin)
He added the licence will allow him to become self-sufficient by being able to charge a fee when putting on educational exhibitions and shows with the animals.
Brad, who lost his job three days after Christmas, now faces the prospect of having to rehome his cherished animals to other reptile sanctuaries, or find them “pet homes” without these funds.
He said: “Around three years ago, I was being made homeless, it was a choice between move to another property or build my dreams.
At risk – The sanctuary’s future is in doubt (Image: Brad Martin)
“I’ve always been a builder but knew it wasn’t what I wanted to do. I wanted to build a business, give back and have always had a passion for animals.
“During Covid, the increase in demand for reptiles went up a lot. Since then, a lot of rehoming centres have seen a massive increase in intake.
“There’s not very many places that provide education about reptiles and teach people how to take care of them, I wanted to help with that.
“This is a plea on the animals behalf, there aren’t many places like this and it brings value to a lot of people.”
Brad’s dream – Brad has invested everything into the centre (Image: Brad Martin)
Named after Brad’s beloved first snake, Pearl, who currently resides there with 32 other reptiles, the sanctuary was started nearly three years ago as he faced homelessness and chose to pursue his passion.
Brad has delayed rehoming the animals until this date and hopes he will be able to raise money for the sanctuary, which serves as one of the few homes available for his reptiles.
“It’s not easy to find a home for four foot lizards and a 13-foot Burmese snake,” he added
“I’m at risk I will never see them or Pearl again”
His fundraiser has so far raised £230 and can be found at gofundme.com/f/help-save-our-reptile-sanctuary-a-plea-for-support