SC-CARES has a multifaceted mission as an immediate response to rescue and give sanctuary to abused, neglected, and abandoned domestic and exotic animals. Another focus is on education of the public, through guided tours and outreach, regarding the aspects and responsibility of taking an animal as a pet. Using the stories of the animals living at the sanctuary we attempt to illustrate the abuse and neglect of animals by irresponsible pet owners and those breeding the animals for the pet trade. A sanctuary provides its' animal with a lifelong residence, animals are not generally adopted out like a shelter.