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About Eli's Ark

We are a ferret-only rescue located in Blanchard, Oklahoma! 

The Story of Eli's Ark

​The dream of founding a 501(c)(3) non-profit ferret rescue began on April 24, 2020, the day I rescued a truly special ferret named Eli.

​A Meant-to-Be Rescue

​Eli was found outside, scared, hungry, and likely discarded. I first saw a post about him and reached out to the finder, but he had already been re-homed. Days later, I couldn't believe it—he was posted again. It seemed meant to be!

​He had been passed along by someone who didn't know how to care for him. A kind Samaritan took him in next but quickly realized his needs were beyond her capabilities. At that point, I took Eli into my care with the support of Nyota’s Second Chance Ferret Rescue, and he quickly became my foster failure.

​Eli's Transformation

​When he arrived, Eli was flea-infested, skinny, and clearly hadn't known a safe place for a long time. He was depressed, living in survival mode, and would cry and run away whenever another ferret or person came near. He hated being petted and wanted to give up.

​Slowly, through constant care, Eli learned to love and trust again. He shed his shelter shock and discovered the joy of being a ferret with the help of Yue, another abandoned rescue.

​The Founding of Eli's Ark

​Eli was the first rescue I took on myself through my association with the wonderful Nyota’s Second Chance Ferret Rescue. The organization, later known as Nyota’s Legacy, was owned and operated by the remarkable rescuer, Lorri Grecco. Tragically, Lorri was taken from this world unexpectedly. We tried to keep her legacy alive but ultimately had to close the organization due to geographical challenges (it was based in Arkansas while most volunteers were in Oklahoma).

​Inspired by Eli and committed to continuing Lorri's spirit of rescue, I officially founded Eli’s Ark Ferret Rescue, Inc., in January 2026.

 

Eli gained his wings July 19th, 2021. He left a hole in my heart, but I'm so thankful that his legacy lives on through the over 100 ferrets I've rescued since our paths first crossed.

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What We Do

At Eli's Ark Ferret Rescue, Inc., we take in owner surrenders and stray ferrets. Each ferret is taken to one of our trusted veterinarians for a health exam, distemper vaccines and rabies vaccines. Sometimes they need additional medical care and that is provided as well. They are then evaluated for adoption. Non-adoptable ferrets stay in our rescue for the remainder of their lives. We currently have 24 permanent rescue residents at the Ark! To see a list of our adoptable ferrets, visit our "Adopt Me" page.

Meet the Board

We can do the most good when we work together. Meet the other members of the rescue!

Whether here or further away, we all have the same mission.

Support Our Mission Today

 Your contribution helps us continue our vital work and makes a real difference to the ferrets under our care.

We are proud to be a 501(c)3 tax-exempt non-profit (EIN: 33-3124034). This means your donation is  tax-deductible for federal income tax purposes to the extent allowed by law. We sincerily thank you for your support!. 

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Melanie Evertsen 

President/Executive Director

elisarkferretrescue@gmail.com

(405) 362-7034

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Contact Us

For more information, reach out!

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