Driven by compassion, dedicated to the wild.
This is our story.
Every living creature deserves dignity, compassion, and a fighting chance. Our goal is always full rehabilitation and successful re-release into native habitats. For animals that cannot safely return to the wild due to long-term conditions, we work to find them permanent, peaceful sanctuary homes.
Dedicated to Saving Los Angeles’s Small Native Wildlife.
Founded by licensed wildlife rehabilitator Cleo Watts, Cleo’s Critter Care is a 501(c)(3) non-profit wildlife rescue and rehabilitation hospital based in Pasadena, California. Every year, over 400 sick, injured, and orphaned wild animals pass through our doors with one core objective: Rescue, Rehab, Release.
Permitted by the California Department of Fish & Wildlife (State ID# 1093459326), we work closely with local animal shelters, animal control officers, and a network of dedicated rehabilitators across the greater Los Angeles area to give native urban wildlife a second chance at life in the wild.
What We Do
Infant Care
Dedicated around-the-clock feedings, incubator warmth, and specialized nursing for orphaned squirrels, opossums, skunks, raccoons, and cottontails.
Injury Treatment
Treatment for injuries ranging from minor fractures to severe trauma caused by vehicle strikes, domestic animal attacks, and environmental hazards.
Rehab & Release
Preparing growing animals and recovered adults with the skills, strength, and foraging instincts necessary to thrive back in their natural habitat.
meet our founder
-Cleo Watts, Founder
"Some people ask why we pour so much effort into small creatures like squirrels or possums. We see them as living beings that deserve respect and care."
Cleo Watts is a California Department of Fish and Wildlife permitted rehabilitator (State ID #1093459326). With decades of experience caring for thousands of animals, Cleo founded Cleo’s Critter Care to bridge the gap for small mammals and native species often overlooked during emergencies. Driven by deep empathy and scientific care protocols, she leads our rescue operations and daily patient care.
How You Can Support Us
As a tax-exempt nonprofit, we receive no government funding and rely entirely on donations from animal lovers like you. Every dollar goes directly to specialized formulas, medical supplies, incubators, food, and housing enclosures.
donate directly
Help fund daily patient feeds and life-saving medical care.
fulfill our wishlist
Donate needed supplies like incubators, specialized nursing formulas, and heating pads.
Spread the Word
Educate your neighbors on coexisting safely with local urban wildlife.