Verde Valley Oasis Reptile Ranch & Rescue announces its official public introduction as Northern Arizona’s nonprofit reptile sanctuary.

Fear comes from misunderstanding, and understanding begins with love.”
— Christopher and Brittney Nimtz, Founders

COTTONWOOD, AZ, UNITED STATES, December 23, 2025 /EINPresswire.com/ -- Verde Valley Oasis Reptile Ranch & Rescue (VVORRR), Northern Arizona’s growing hub for reptile rescue, rehabilitation, education, and ethical exotic care, proudly announces its formal introduction to the community and statewide partners. Founded by Christopher and Brittney Nimtz, the nonprofit organization blends hands-on education, responsible reptile adoption, and conservation outreach to reshape how Arizona families understand and interact with native and exotic reptiles.

VVORRR’s story didn’t begin in a boardroom — it began in the red dirt of the Sonoran Desert, decades before the ranch existed. Brittney was raised in a home filled with enclosures, color, and movement — where reptiles were not feared, but celebrated. Christopher’s childhood was the opposite, marked by uncertainty around snakes until Brittney’s lifelong comfort and knowledge shifted everything. Their shared experiences eventually ignited a passion that evolved into a mission: change the way people see reptiles by replacing fear with understanding.

Founded officially as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in June 2021, Verde Valley Oasis operates as Arizona’s humane society for reptiles — providing rescue, rehoming, rehabilitation, and responsible adoption opportunities for surrendered, injured, or displaced reptiles. The organization remains fully self-sustaining through community support, educational programming, and donations that directly enrich the lives and environments of the animals in its care.

VVORRR offers a range of educational experiences throughout the Verde Valley and beyond. Their school programs, birthday events, and summer camp presentations introduce children to both native and exotic species in a safe, supervised, and ethical setting. Each experience is designed to foster respect for wildlife, correct misconceptions, and inspire children to view reptiles as vital contributors to Arizona’s ecosystem rather than creatures to be feared.

The ranch provides rescue and adoption services for a wide variety of reptiles, from leopard geckos and bearded dragons to boas, chameleons, monitor lizards, kingsnakes, and more. Many arrive from owners who can no longer care for them; others come from unsafe situations. Every reptile receives species-appropriate care, enrichment, habitat upgrades, and medical evaluation as needed.

Rehoming services are a major component of VVORRR’s mission. The organization works closely with families to ensure each adoption is ethical, informed, and based on long-term commitment. Education does not stop at adoption — every new reptile parent receives guidance on habitat design, proper nutrition, veterinary considerations, and species behavior.

As Arizona continues to grow, conflicts between humans and wildlife increase — especially with native species such as gopher snakes, kingsnakes, and rattlesnakes. VVORRR educates the public about the ecological importance of these desert neighbors. Rattlesnakes, for example, are crucial natural pest controllers that keep rodent populations balanced. Misunderstanding them often leads to unnecessary harm, which negatively affects the entire ecosystem.

The Nimtz family’s journey — from childhood lizard-chasing to rescuing anacondas, king snakes, and chameleons — reflects a life shaped by the Sonoran landscape. Their daughter is now growing up surrounded by the same wildlife that inspired Brittney as a child. Together, the family has created a haven where education, conservation, and compassion come together.

VVORRR is not simply rescuing animals; it is restoring understanding. Through hands-on learning, community events, ethical rescue practices, and a commitment to reptile welfare, the organization bridges the gap between people and the wildlife that has shaped the desert for centuries.

As the ranch continues to grow, VVORRR is expanding its outreach, strengthening local partnerships, and working to create new educational programs for schools and tourism centers throughout the Verde Valley, Sedona, and beyond.

Verde Valley Oasis Reptile Ranch & Rescue (VVORRR) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to reptile rescue, rehabilitation, education, ethical adoption, and conservation throughout Northern Arizona.

As a self-sustaining nonprofit, VVORRR relies on donations to upgrade habitats, support rescue operations, and expand conservation initiatives. Contributions can be made at: https://vvorrr.org/new-donate/

Christopher Nimtz & Brittney Nimtz
Verde Valley Oasis Reptile Ranch & Rescue (VVORRR)
+1 928-499-2006
email us here

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