When traveling along Route 66, there are certain places you expect to encounter: long-abandoned attractions, decades-old diners that serve burgers and malts, some pretty strange monuments, and even a few historic sites. But an exotic animal sanctuary is one spot that you probably wouldn't expect but is definitely worth the stop. Today, we're going to take a look at a sanctuary that not only makes a great visit but is also making a big difference in the lives of animals!

Located in Valentine (nearly 34 miles northeast of Kingman on Route 66), Keepers of the Wild is a nonprofit organization that focuses on protecting and caring for exotic and indigenous animals previously held in captivity.

Animals housed in the sanctuary previously lived in zoos, auctions, circuses, and private residences in varying states of care and neglect. Many narrowly avoided euthanasia.

The sanctuary works to make sure the animals each receive the medical care needed to ensure they live full, healthy lives while staying at the sanctuary.

This tiger, Max, was declawed by a previous owner which made walking painful as he was no longer able to fully support his weight on his paws. Some time after his arrival to Keepers of the Wild, he received surgery that, within days, had him strutting around like a normal tiger again.

Some of the animals that come into their care are eventually released back into the wild!

This owl was one of several rescued by the sanctuary from an unsafe living environment, rehabilitated at another facility, and then released several months later.

In addition to providing a great new place to live, the animal sanctuary also works to educate visitors about exotic animals, conservation, and living with Arizona wildlife.

You can opt to walk around the sanctuary on your own or you can take one of the guided safari tours in a cool vehicle like this.

Since the sanctuary focuses on the animals' well-being, you won't be able to interact with them—feed, play with, or pose with any of the animals—but you can watch them go about their normal day!

When you visit, you'll get a chance to see the animals living brand new lives! You can watch them go about their usual day...

...eating...

...napping...

...and playing!

The sanctuary is open year round, so you get to see the animals interact with their environment, no matter how it looks!

Keepers of the Wild is located at 13441 East Highway 66 in Valentine. Details about hours of operation, tours, and donations can be found on their website or Facebook page.

Want to read about another wildlife park in our beautiful state? Read about Bearizona in Visit This Little Known Arizona Park For The Time Of Your Life.