From Heroin Addict To Animal Rescue

Animal rescue could not have happened until Alexandra found recovery herself. When Alexandra Ashe heard of TC, an abandoned kinkajous, so much about his story resonated with her — a troubled past, rehabilitation, and the opportunity to start fresh. This was Alexandra’s life in a nutshell, as she suffered from addiction for most of her time. She jumped at the opportunity to help this mammal, who mirrored her journey.

Abandoned Kinkajous rules the roost in this house

TC is a blessing. Her feisty attitude made her a challenge in the beginning, but with patience and unconditional love — she’s a muffin! TC now resides with other kinkajous. Like raccoons, she loves getting into mischief. TC is a fan of “helping” with daily chores, which really consists getting underfoot. She is a master of tripping her caretakers. A funny creature, she has a sweet tooth and a great sense of humor.

As much of a social butterfly as she is, TC needs her alone time and loves naps! Everyone can relate to this little girl in one way or another.

TC is a true rescue. Who would ever want to throw this sweet girl out? Alexandra can’t answer that, but she can tell you who would pledge a commitment of unconditional care for her and offer this kinkajou a permanent home. She could.

TC (pictured above) with Alexandra joined the haven in June 2018.

Six months prior she was found “thrown out” in a dumpster. This is a common practice regarding kinkajous; especially in Florida and Texas. People become overwhelmed with ownership and instead of finding placement, set them free in an inappropriate environment. Fortunately, TC was discovered and taken to a local wildlife sanctuary. She was rehabbed for 6 months and then joined Kinkatopia. We know nothing of her past before being found in the dumpster. Considering she ended up there, we imagine it wasn’t very nice.

TC non-stop play in a safe space

She will live out her days at Kinkatopia, she is loved very dearly and the organization is working to combat situations such as hers.

Animal rescue takes heroine recovery to vulnerable kinkajous

Kinkatopia is now home to 7 kinkajous and Alexandra dedicates herself to giving these animals the best quality of life. However, without her sobriety, none of this would be possible. Alexandra has multiple years sober, but still keeps her recovery as her top priority. “I know what it’s like to build an incredible life with wonderful animals and lose it all. I never want that to happen again. I fight everyday to live a life beyond my wildest dreams … with wild animals.” All these animals are given the chance to live two lives in one, when they end up at Kinkatopia. This concept is special to Alexandra as she has evolved into living the best version of herself. She can relate to TC’s troubled past and the blessing of a second chance.

Alexandra Ashe is a recovering heroin addict who’s dedicated her life to creating a sanctuary and educational platform for this niche animal in the exotic world. She is the CEO and founder of Kinkatopia — the only kinkajou-specific 501c3 organization in the world.

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