Kasteelweg 22, Oostvleteren
Permanent shelter for exotic wild animals
RESCUE - SHELTER - EDUCATION
Our mission
We put an end to the suffering of exotic wild animals in captivity in Europe by rescuing them and offering them permanent sanctuary.
We are open to visitors and raise awareness about this issue through education.
Our vision
De Zonnegloed has a clear goal:
a world without animal suffering.
+85 species.
Hundreds of stories
A safe, warm home for more than 85 species of rescued animals. Hundreds of animal stories with a new beginning.
Many of these animals were rescued from:
Illegal pet ownership
Illegal trade
Circuses
Disaster areas
Neglect
Zoos
Fur farms
Invasive exotic species
3
Our work is built on
PILLARS
Rescue
We remove exotic wild animals from distressing situations and inhumane living conditions.
Shelter
We provide a warm and as natural as possible home where animals can recover and live a dignified life again with their own kind.
Education
We inspire visitors to help end the suffering of wild animals in captivity.
Hope begins here!
De Zonnegloed is Belgium’s first and only wildlife sanctuary — a place where rescued wild animals that can no longer be returned to the wild can finally find peace. Founded as a non-profit organisation and run as a family business, driven by a pure love for animals.
Every animal that arrives here has a past that touches your heart. But this is where their new chapter begins — with space, care and dignity.
non-profit
organisation
family-run
with heart and soul
Hope begins here!
De Zonnegloed is Belgium’s first and only wildlife sanctuary — a place where rescued wild animals that can no longer be returned to the wild can finally find peace. Founded as a non-profit organisation and run as a family business, driven by a pure love for animals.
Every animal that arrives here has a past that touches your heart. But this is where their new chapter begins — with space, care and dignity.
non-profit
organisation
family-run
with heart and soul
‘God entrusted us with responsibility for the earth and its wonderful animals. We must take good care of this Creation and all its animals. Especially the most vulnerable and the most damaged.’
- Karel Ackaert, founder of De Zonnegloed -
At De Zonnegloed
rescued animals have
found a new home
species living alongside their fellow species
75.000m²
of freedom for
abused animals
2h30
average walking time
5000 steps
75.000m²
vrijheid voor
misbruikte dieren
Recognised by various bodies and authorities
Despite all these accolades, De Zonnegloed does not receive any subsidies.
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