Bobcat Brothers: Discover Paws and Claws Animal Encounters

A New Chapter for Paws and Claws Animal Encounters

Nestled in the picturesque countryside just outside the historic village of Bremen, Ohio, Paws and Claws Animal Encounters is welcoming two new members to its animal family. The arrival of the bobcat brothers, Canyon and Forest, marks a significant milestone for the facility, which has been dedicated to wildlife education and conservation for nearly eight years.

For owner Sara McClaskey, the addition of the bobcats represents more than just a new chapter—it’s a full-circle moment. As a 2021 graduate of Ohio University Lancaster, she credits her time at the university with shaping her career and passion for animals.

“I would not have the skills I have today without my time spent at Ohio University,” McClaskey said. “My professors really helped guide me and encouraged me through figuring out what to do with my life and to follow my passion. Having the bobcats here now feels even more meaningful.”

Canyon and Forest have quickly adapted to their new home, and visitors are already captivated by their playful personalities. “It has been so much fun,” McClaskey shared. “I absolutely love watching them play and interact with each other and our staff. The public has had really great reactions to them as well.”

While the brothers are still young and enjoy roughhousing, the facility plans to introduce more hands-on experiences with guests as they grow. McClaskey hopes that these encounters will inspire a deeper respect for native wildlife.

“I hope Canyon and Forest teach people to have a love and respect for local wildlife,” she said. “Ohio is seeing increases in native species like bobcats, and I do not think people realize the importance of that. Seeing an animal in person and not just on a screen creates a lasting connection, and we want those encounters to inspire care and conservation.”

A Legacy of Passion and Education

McClaskey’s journey with animals began long before Paws and Claws became a reality. From a young age, she was drawn to the natural world, spending her childhood observing and interacting with local wildlife. Her admiration for animals grew when she met a wild red fox, whom she bonded with over the course of a year.

“Every night I would sit out in the pasture and wait for him,” McClaskey recalled. “It took about a year, but he eventually started sitting right next to me. One morning I came out to find him on our porch curled up, and he had passed away. That is something I carried with me from middle school and really inspired me to help advocate for animals.”

Her passion for animals led her to pursue a degree in communications, where she learned how to craft messages and connect with audiences—skills that would later become essential in building awareness for her sanctuary.

“I started as an education major, but during one semester I taught a lesson that incorporated animals, and I felt more confident than ever before,” she said. “Then I created a media project using videos of my own animals, and it hit me that I did not want to be in a classroom for the rest of my life.”

This realization led her to shift her focus toward communication, and her first kangaroo became the foundation for what Paws and Claws would become.

Expanding Horizons and Inspiring Change

Over the years, Paws and Claws has grown into a nationally recognized destination, known for its unique otter encounters. The facility's signature experience involves swimming with the otters, combining education and adventure.

“We start by teaching guests about the species, the threats they face, and the organizations we support with ticket proceeds,” McClaskey explained. “Then we let our guests step into their indoor habitat with a large pool where the otters are free to interact on their terms. It is magical to watch them swim right in front of you and around you.”

Education and conservation remain central to the mission of Paws and Claws. Many of the animals on the farm were once unwanted pets but now serve as ambassadors to teach guests about the realities of exotic animal care.

“Social media often makes owning exotic animals look like it is all fun and games, but people do not always realize the challenges,” McClaskey said. “I hope that when people meet our animals, they leave with a new respect for them and an understanding that they are not pets, but unique creatures that deserve proper space, diet, and care.”

Looking Ahead

As Paws and Claws continues to grow in popularity, McClaskey envisions an even greater future for the facility. She dreams of becoming an accredited zoo, which would allow the organization to participate in Species Survival Plans that help maintain genetic diversity and even release animals into the wild.

Recently, the facility caught the attention of travel and entertainment personality Zane Lamprey, who praised his visit to the farm. With continued support from the community and growing interest from visitors, Paws and Claws remains committed to its mission of fostering conservation awareness while providing educational and unforgettable adventures.