Nature Park

Jonathan Kraft, an animal behaviorist, established Keepers of the Wild as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit animal sanctuary in 1995 (click here to read the full story). The nature park and wildlife sanctuary is currently located on 175 acres in Valentine, Arizona on historic Route 66.

 

Jonathan has worked with local, state, national, and international law enforcement and animal welfare agencies to assist with rescues, rehabilitation, and providing a life-long home to wild and exotic animals.

 

Jonathan’s high standards of animal care have earned numerous commendations and awards from organizations, including the Nevada Wildlife Federation, the S.P.C.A, the Humane Society, and Arizona’s Attorney’s and Sheriff’s Associations.

 

Jonathan has starred in movies and has been featured in several local, national, and international educational film projects, documentaries, news broadcasts, articles, and magazines. Highly regarded for his expertise with animals, Jonathan has served as an expert witness in court proceedings against animal abusers, worked as an independent consultant to other sanctuaries, and is a highly sought-after presenter for special speaking engagements. 

Born and raised in Arizona, Lara Kraft is a lifelong, dedicated wildlife enthusiast and animal advocate with a passion for nature-inspired photography.

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In 2017, Kraft began working with Keepers of the Wild. Falling in love with the animals and mission at the sanctuary, she quickly became more involved. Her dedication and hard work led to her promotion to media director and vice president in 2019, later followed by her election as board chairwoman. In 2024, Lara was appointed as the co-executive director for Keepers and the Arizona State Director for Animal Wellness Action (AWA).
 

Through her work, Kraft strives to educate the public about animal welfare and ecological issues and hopes to help create a more harmonious society where humans, animals, and nature can coexist in balance — an important future realization for her young daughter to experience. Combining her love for animals, nature, education, and advocacy, Kraft is a passionate advocate for the well-being of all living beings.

With a lengthy background in surgical coordination and technology, educational program development, and grant management, Kraft brings a unique blend of skills and experience to her current roles at Keepers of the Wild and as Arizona State Director for AWA.

Sparky grew up in Idaho and was always in love with the outdoors and its inhabitants.

 

Following the love of his life (wife Carrie, together over 30 years) to Arizona, he adjusted to his new habitat.

 

As he learned about Keepers of the Wild, he was inspired to join the team that loves, cares for, and protects nature's precious animals. In November of 2020, he acted on his inspiration and became the full-time Gift Shop Host, much to KOTW's staff and guests' delight; his nickname makes sense the moment you meet him!

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Sparky would like to remind you that every purchase in the gift shop helps support the residents of our sanctuary and, as Sparky likes to say, “The animals thank you!”